In what ways can we support church leaders in their financial responsibilities? Setting the scene: Paul’s model of shared stewardship 2 Corinthians 8:19 says, “And not only that, but he was appointed by the churches to accompany us with this gracious gift we are administering to honor the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help.” • Paul does not carry the collection alone; the churches choose trustworthy men to travel with it. • Their presence protects the integrity of the offering, honors Christ, and reassures the givers. • This pattern reveals that financial responsibility in ministry is never a solo act—it is a shared, transparent work of the whole body. Why supporting leaders financially matters • Money entrusted to church leaders is ultimately the Lord’s (Psalm 24:1). • Faithfulness in “very small matters” proves readiness for greater ones (Luke 16:10). • Honest handling of funds adorns the gospel (2 Corinthians 8:20–21). • When leaders are relieved of anxiety over finances, they can devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:3–4). Practical ways to undergird our leaders 1. Consistent, sacrificial giving – Honor the Lord with your wealth (Proverbs 3:9). – Set aside gifts regularly, just as Paul directed the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 16:1–2). 2. Double honor for those who labor in preaching and teaching – “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor” (1 Timothy 5:17–18). – Budget for fair salaries and benefits, not mere subsistence. 3. Prayerful covering – Ask God to give leaders wisdom and integrity as stewards (James 1:5). 4. Offering administrative skill – Serve on finance teams, audit committees, or counting crews. – Provide professional expertise in accounting, legal matters, or technology. 5. Cultivating transparency – Encourage regular, clear financial reports (2 Corinthians 8:21). – Support policies requiring multiple signers and open books. 6. Encouragement and gratitude – Send notes or speak words that acknowledge the unseen labor of budget planning and bill paying (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13). Guardrails that protect everyone • Plural oversight: never one person alone with church funds (2 Corinthians 8:19–20). • Written procedures: clear guidelines for receipts, disbursements, and audits. • External reviews: periodic audits or reviews by qualified outsiders (Proverbs 15:22). • Ethical boundaries: refusing conflicts of interest or personal enrichment (Exodus 23:8). Fruit that follows faithful support • Needs of the saints supplied, and thanksgiving multiplied to God (2 Corinthians 9:12). • Leaders freed to focus on shepherding, preaching, and evangelism (Acts 6:7). • The church’s testimony strengthened before a watching world (Matthew 5:16). • Givers themselves blessed: “Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am seeking the fruit that may abound to your account” (Philippians 4:17). |
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