Are church raffles acceptable?

Definition and Background

A church raffle typically involves selling tickets for a chance to win a prize, with proceeds often going toward a ministry, mission, or charitable cause. This practice resembles forms of gambling, though how closely it aligns with gambling depends on several factors such as intent, transparency, and financial stewardship. While there is no direct reference in Scripture mentioning modern fundraising methods like raffles, we do find numerous principles that help guide believers in matters of money, stewardship, and moral conduct.

Motives and Key Biblical Principles

Engaging in or promoting a raffle brings up various scriptural values:

1. Stewardship of Resources

Scripture consistently underscores the importance of wise stewardship. Jesus’ parables frequently highlight being trustworthy with what God entrusts to us (Luke 16:10–12). In essence, resources—whether money or possessions—should be collected and spent in a way that glorifies God. If a raffle is seen as a responsible way to gather support for kingdom work, some might regard it as acceptable. However, if it fosters reckless spending or manipulates people into giving, such an approach can conflict with the principle of godly stewardship.

2. Heart Attitude Toward Money

In 1 Timothy 6:10, we read, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Believers must therefore ask if raising funds through a game of chance promotes a love of money or fuels greed. Churches should take care not to encourage an environment where people are enticed by the possibility of material gain rather than guided by cheerfully giving with a pure heart (2 Corinthians 9:7).

3. Appearance of Gambling

Some believers argue that any exchange where participants risk money for the chance of a reward equates to gambling. In that sense, a raffle can appear to mirror the practice of gambling, which is associated with risk, chance, and an often covetous desire for profit. Conversely, others note that biblical examples of “casting lots” involved discerning God’s will, not merely chasing profit (Proverbs 16:33). This distinction leads to questions of purpose and motive: is it a promotional tool heavily focused on winning a prize, or chiefly a means of voluntary giving?

4. Avoiding Stumbling Blocks

Romans 14:13 warns, “Make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.” If a raffle leads some believers into a form of subtle or overt gambling or jeopardizes someone’s conscience, then it could place a stumbling block before them. The church is meant to edify and protect the flock, prompting caution about activities that might undermine a believer’s integrity or faith walk.

Fields of Application for Church Raffles

1. Fundraising for Ministry Projects

Some churches use raffles to fund humanitarian activities (like supporting orphanages, building wells, or hosting outreach programs). The intent may be to spark communal participation in a light-hearted event that raises money. While the goal is commendable, the method should remain transparent, focusing on the ultimate charitable cause instead of tempting individuals with the allure of a prize.

2. Community Outreach

In some communities, an event involving a raffle might attract local interest, offering opportunities for relational outreach. However, a church should be mindful of mixing its testimony with methods that could be misconstrued as gambling, causing confusion among believers and non-believers alike about the church’s stance on trust and reliance on God’s provision.

3. Balancing Conscience and Freedom

Scriptural reminders instruct us that we have individual consciences before the Lord (Romans 14:5). One person may see raffles as a harmless game, while another perceives them as a risk leading to sinful temptation. Thus, church leaders have a responsibility to weigh these diverse perspectives carefully.

Considerations in the Modern Context

1. Legal and Ethical Aspects

Church raffles should abide by any local regulations. Failure to comply with legal statutes could damage the church’s reputation and witness in the community (Romans 13:1). Abiding by lawful guidelines also ensures ethical boundaries remain intact.

2. Transparency and Accountability

Churches that conduct raffles bear the responsibility of being transparent about spendings and proceeds. Maintaining clear records and openly sharing how the funds are used upholds integrity and helps avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing (1 Thessalonians 5:22).

3. Alternatives to Raffles

Some congregations opt for alternative fundraising methods—voluntary donations, directed offerings, or benefit dinners—thus avoiding the possible pitfalls of a raffle. Such avenues can encourage giving that is motivated purely by a desire to support God’s work, rather than the chance to win a personal reward.

Conclusion

Whether church raffles are acceptable depends on a blended evaluation of biblical principles, conscience, and context. Scripture does not specifically forbid or condone modern-day raffles, but it does guide believers toward godly stewardship, caution about greed, and concern for those who may stumble.

If a church chooses to implement a raffle, it should do so sparingly, transparently, and with a heart fixed on glorifying God, never overshadowing the gospel or encouraging any dependence on money’s allure. If, however, leaders deem that a raffle creates an atmosphere akin to gambling or compromises a vulnerable believer’s conscience, it may be best to seek an alternative way to raise needed funds.

Above all, the overarching principle is that everything—whether financial decisions or acts of service—should be done to honor the Lord (1 Corinthians 10:31). By aiming to avoid greed, preserve integrity, and ensure a strong Christian testimony, each congregation can prayerfully assess whether a raffle aligns with biblical convictions and serves the ultimate goal of glorifying God.