What does Paul's integrity in 2 Corinthians 12:18 teach about handling church finances? Setting the Scene • 2 Corinthians 12:18: “I urged Titus to visit you, and I sent our brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit and in the same steps?” • Paul reminds the Corinthians that neither he nor Titus ever “took advantage” of them. Their conduct matched their words, proving their integrity with money entrusted for ministry. Transparent Stewardship • Paul voluntarily declined financial support from Corinth (2 Colossians 11:7-9) so no one could accuse him of greed. • He kept offerings for Jerusalem separate and supervised (2 Corinthians 8:20-21: “We hope to avoid any criticism … we are taking great care to do what is right”). • Clear books, clear conscience: finances handled in the open protect the gospel’s credibility. Shared Accountability • Titus traveled with “our brother” (an unnamed delegate) to collect funds—never alone. • Multiple trustworthy witnesses reduce temptation and silence suspicion (Deuteronomy 17:6; cf. 2 Corinthians 13:1). • Modern application: counting teams, dual signatures, outside audits. Consistent Character • “Did we not walk in the same spirit and in the same steps?”—Paul, Titus, and the brother shared identical values. • Luke 16:10: faithfulness in little proves fitness for greater trust. • Leaders who model honesty set the tone for the whole congregation. Leaders Serve, Not Profit • Acts 20:33-35: Paul labored with his own hands and reminded elders “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” • 1 Timothy 3:2-3: overseers must be “above reproach … not a lover of money.” • Financial integrity flows from a heart satisfied in Christ, not in cash. Practical Takeaways for Congregations Today • Publish regular, detailed financial reports—nothing hidden. • Require at least two unrelated people to handle offerings and payments. • Select treasurers and elders whose lives already exhibit generosity and contentment. • Train staff and volunteers with written policies grounded in Scripture. • When special funds are raised, appoint respected, Spirit-filled members to oversee distribution (Acts 6:3). • Celebrate God’s provision publicly, crediting Him, not individuals, for every dollar entrusted. Paul’s example shows that money handled God’s way becomes a testimony, not a temptation. |
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