How can we ensure our contributions to the church are used appropriately today? Seeing the Pattern in 2 Chronicles 31:14 “Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the gatekeeper at the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings of God, to distribute the contributions to the LORD and the consecrated gifts.” • Kore is singled out because he was faithful, qualified, and accountable. • His task was clear: receive offerings and distribute them exactly as God prescribed. • This verse sits inside a larger context (vv. 11-19) that shows organized storehouses, written records, and multiple overseers—checks and balances in action. Principles for Today: Guarding the Gifts 1. Appoint proven servants – Look for those “faithful in little” (Luke 16:10). – Follow Paul’s pattern of selecting trustworthy messengers (2 Corinthians 8:18-22). 2. Clarify responsibilities – Kore’s role was specific; so should ours be—receiving, recording, and distributing. – Written policies prevent confusion and favoritism (1 Corinthians 14:40, “all things… orderly”). 3. Use plural oversight – Hezekiah appointed several Levites (2 Chron 31:12-13). – Paul urged collections be carried by more than one man “so that no one can discredit us in our handling” (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). 4. Maintain transparent records – Storehouses were public, inventories were kept (2 Chron 31:11-15). – Modern parallels: open books, annual reports, external audits. 5. Align spending with biblical priorities – Support those who minister (1 Timothy 5:17-18). – Relieve the needy (Acts 4:34-35). – Advance gospel mission (Philippians 4:15-17). 6. Invite congregational awareness – Paul encouraged churches to set aside funds weekly (1 Corinthians 16:1-4), keeping everyone involved. – Regular updates build trust and foster continued generosity (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). 7. Anchor everything in worship – Offerings are first “to the LORD,” not to projects or personalities (2 Chron 31:14). – Malachi 3:10 reminds that faithful giving and faithful stewardship open the way for God’s blessing. Practical Steps You Can Take • Elect a finance team with staggered terms for continuity and accountability. • Require two signatures on every disbursement. • Publish quarterly financial summaries. • Hold an annual “ministry impact” meeting linking dollars to discipleship. • Provide online access to budgets and minutes. • Encourage private, designated benevolence funds overseen by separate deacons. Encouragement for Givers • Generous hearts are God’s channel of provision (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • When systems honor His order, giving becomes a joy, needs are met, and “thanksgiving overflows to God” (2 Corinthians 9:11-12). |
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