In what ways can we ensure our church resources honor God today? Setting the Scene: Nehemiah 13:5 “and had prepared for him a large room where previously they had stored the grain offerings, the frankincense, the articles, and the tithes of grain, new wine, and oil prescribed for the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers, along with the contributions for the priests.” What Went Wrong in Jerusalem • A sacred space was handed over to an outsider who opposed God’s work (Tobiah). • Offerings, tithes, and ministry supplies were pushed aside. • Levites and singers lost the support God had commanded for them (cf. Nehemiah 13:10). • Worship suffered because stewardship was compromised. Timeless Principles Drawn from the Passage • God designates resources for specific, holy purposes; they are not ours to repurpose (Leviticus 27:30). • When leaders allow worldly influences into God’s storehouse, spiritual decline soon follows (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Swift correction is required; Nehemiah “threw all Tobiah’s household goods out of the room” (Nehemiah 13:8). Ensuring Our Church Resources Honor God Today 1. Keep Purpose Clear – Budget and facilities must first serve worship, discipleship, evangelism, and mercy (Matthew 28:19-20; James 1:27). 2. Protect Sacred Spaces – Reserve church property for ministries that align with Scripture; resist outside agendas (2 Corinthians 6:14-16). 3. Support Those Who Serve – Provide for pastors, missionaries, and staff just as Israel provided for Levites (1 Timothy 5:17-18). 4. Cultivate Transparency – Use open financial reports, multiple signers, and independent audits (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). 5. Act Quickly When Misuse Appears – Remove improper influences and restore rightful use, following Nehemiah’s decisive model. 6. Prioritize Kingdom Impact Over Comfort – Evaluate expenses by eternal value, not convenience (Matthew 6:19-21). 7. Encourage Cheerful, Regular Giving – Teach tithing and generosity so the storehouse is never empty (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7). 8. Maintain Ongoing Accountability – Elders and deacons oversee funds together, modeling faithful stewardship (Acts 6:1-4; 1 Corinthians 4:2). Practical Steps for Leaders and Members • Post a quarterly summary of income, expenses, and missions giving. • Calendar an annual “stewardship review” to align every line item with biblical mission. • Establish policies blocking personal use of church property. • Create a benevolence fund with clear guidelines and oversight. • Rotate counters and treasurers to avoid temptation and fatigue. • Invite testimonies of how giving advances the gospel, encouraging joyful participation. New Testament Echoes That Reinforce the Lesson • John 2:13-17 – Jesus cleanses the temple, protecting pure worship. • Luke 16:10 – “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Philippians 4:17 – Paul seeks “the fruit that abounds to your account,” not personal gain. Finishing Thought When church resources stay in the room God assigned—funding worship, teaching, and loving service—He is honored, His people are blessed, and the watching world sees a living testimony of His holiness and grace. |
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