How can we apply Paul's method of financial stewardship in our church today? Context and Key Verse “Then, when I arrive, I will send letters with those you approve to deliver your gift to Jerusalem.” – 1 Corinthians 16:3 Why This Matters for Us Because God’s Word is completely trustworthy, the practical steps Paul outlined remain a model for church finances today. His instructions safeguard integrity, encourage generosity, and keep the focus on gospel mission. Principle 1: Planned, Systematic Giving • Paul had already told the Corinthians, “On the first day of every week, each of you is to set something aside and save up” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Intentional, weekly giving prevents last-minute pressure and levels out resources over time. • Related passages: Proverbs 3:9; Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. Principle 2: Congregational Approval of Stewards • “Those you approve” shows the church selected trusted representatives, not Paul alone. • The same pattern appears in 2 Corinthians 8:19, where a delegate is “appointed by the churches.” • Today: – Elect a finance team affirmed by the congregation. – Require multiple signatures on accounts. – Rotate service terms to avoid unhealthy power pockets. Principle 3: Documentation and Transparency • Paul promised “letters” to accompany the couriers, providing written verification. • 2 Corinthians 8:20-21 underscores the goal: “We are taking pains to do what is right…not only before the Lord but also before men.” • Practical steps now: – Detailed monthly reports available to all members. – Independent audits or reviews. – Clear policies for counting, depositing, and receipting. Principle 4: Purpose-Driven Generosity • The offering was for famine-stricken believers in Jerusalem (Acts 11:29-30), demonstrating unity across cultures and regions. • Giving remains missional: supporting gospel workers (Philippians 4:17-19; 1 Timothy 5:17-18) and caring for the poor (Galatians 2:10). • Communicate where funds go and celebrate ministry impact. Principle 5: Accountability to Leadership and Church • Paul would “send” the approved delegates—authority and accountability working together. • 1 Corinthians 4:2: “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” • Pastors provide oversight, but the whole body bears responsibility for faithfulness. Putting It into Practice Today • Teach stewardship regularly from the pulpit, emphasizing God’s ownership (Psalm 24:1). • Encourage members to set aside funds first, not last. • Establish a biblically qualified finance team (Acts 6:3—“full of the Spirit and wisdom”). • Maintain transparent records and open books. • Partner with trustworthy ministries beyond the local church, modeling the Jerusalem collection. • Review policies yearly to keep safeguards current. • Celebrate testimonies of how giving advances the gospel, strengthening faith and unity. Spiritual Outcomes • Integrity protects the church’s witness (2 Corinthians 8:21). • Generosity multiplies thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:11-12). • Faithful stewardship positions the church to meet needs, spread the gospel, and hear one day, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). |
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