How can we ensure resources are used wisely in church projects, as seen here? Setting the Scene in Josiah’s Reform “Have them put it into the hands of those doing the work—the supervisors in the LORD’s temple—and have these men pay the workers who are repairing the LORD’s temple.” (2 Kings 22:5) Key Observations from 2 Kings 22:5 • Temple funds were gathered, counted, and then handed to trustworthy supervisors. • The supervisors paid the craftsmen directly, preventing needless layers and potential misuse. • The workmen were chosen for skill, not politics, and were compensated fairly for faithful labor. Foundational Stewardship Principles • Ownership: Psalm 24:1 — Everything belongs to the LORD; the church manages what is His. • Faithfulness: 1 Corinthians 4:2 — Stewards must be found faithful. • Transparency: 2 Corinthians 8:20-21 — Paul traveled with companions to handle offerings “so that no one can criticize us.” • Integrity: Luke 16:10 — Faithfulness in little things reveals readiness for larger responsibility. • Accountability: Proverbs 27:23 — Knowing the state of resources protects against loss. Practical Steps for Today’s Churches • Count offerings with at least two unrelated believers present, recording totals immediately. • Deposit funds promptly; avoid holding cash off-site. • Form a finance team of proven, spiritually mature members (1 Timothy 3:2-3). • Create a written budget approved by the congregation or elders before projects begin. • Require dual signatures for substantial expenditures. • Use itemized contracts and invoices, mirroring Josiah’s direct payment to workers. • Provide regular, readable reports to the church body: income, expenses, project status. • Conduct an annual external review or audit for added credibility. Safeguards Against Misuse • Separation of duties: those who authorize spending should not be the same people who record it. • Written policies for benevolence, building projects, and mission funds. • Digital giving platforms with automatic documentation. • Secure record storage, both physical and digital, with limited access. • Immediate investigation of irregularities, guided by Matthew 18 for any needed correction. Fruit of Faithful Stewardship • God’s glory displayed as resources accomplish kingdom work (1 Chronicles 29:11-14). • Congregational trust grows, encouraging cheerful generosity (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). • The watching community sees honesty and excellence, opening doors for gospel witness (Philippians 2:15). • Workers and volunteers feel valued and motivated, just as the temple craftsmen were in Josiah’s day. Wise, transparent management of God’s resources honors the pattern set in 2 Kings 22:5 and multiplies ministry impact for generations to come. |
    |