In the previous blog, we said that how ministers and ministries handle money is either a great testimony to the Kingdom or a stumbling block to the Gospel. One of the biggest stumbling blocks is the perception that ministers are treating ministry as a get-rich-quick scheme. This reputation is far from the truth. The vast majority of ministers in the Philippines need to focus more on sustainability (the previous blog), but the bad image of a few is enough to discourage many from faith.
The main issue here isn’t how much is being earned, spent, or paid out to ministers. There will be great variety here given the differences in societies, neighborhoods, etc. But what causes people concern is the lack of accountability and transparency in how the money is handled. This is another example of where the world’s systems have infiltrated the church. In many megachurches, the compensation system and the perks for top leaders resemble a Fortune 500 company more than the early church in Acts. Again, this is not the case for all or even the majority. But it’s enough to affect how everyone else is perceived.
Paul shows the importance of how money is handled in being a good testimony:
We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man. (2 Corinthians 8:20–21)
What does the Christian church need in order to regain people’s trust?
- Honest Accountability
The church needs to establish systems of accountability that really work and make sense. Even corporations have to submit their reports to the government. These kinds of systems include: how the money is received, where the money is stored, how the money is spent, and a multiplicity of eyes watching. Without accountability, the temptation to pocket it is too great. People can have different ways of applying this. Some ministries can start by separating their personal finances from the organizational ones. Others need to form advisory councils of people who are not under the lead pastor’s authority, and can hold him accountable. Others should consider making their spending publicly reported. If this is difficult or we feel a resistance to it within, we should ask why. Are we hiding anything?
- High Standards
Too often, the descent into financial mismanagement and dishonesty doesn’t begin with the intent to steal. But the temptation and opportunity come when our operations leave us vulnerable by handling money without any accountability. To prevent this, we need higher standards and better systems. This includes: not counting money alone, having a budget and sticking to it, and having financial consultants. Contrary to some people’s opinion, these systems don’t inhibit the move of the Spirit, and instead inspire us to depend more on Him. If we need to spend on something, but it’s beyond our budget, we can pray and trust the Spirit to move. Instead of dipping into savings or essential personal funds, we pray and wait for God’s miraculous move.
- Healthy Hearts
Ultimately, all the systems and structures will not prevail against a heart that chases money. The fact is, we mishandle money because it’s too important to us. What God desires for us is to trust Him. When we do, money loses its power and we can handle it impartially, freely receiving, saving, and giving. When we get to this place, we can say like Paul, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:12–13)
