Churches Need to Teach About Money
FaithFi: Faith & Finance | Oct 12, 2023
Show Notes
When Stewardship Sunday comes around, some folks find excuses to skip church! It’s a fact that money isn’t a popular sermon topic. Well, maybe that’s because people have the wrong attitude about money. We’ll talk about that today on Faith and Finance.
Church leaders who teach God’s Word every week understand their responsibility to guide their flocks wisely. Sometimes, they have to teach on tough topics, such as sin, spiritual discipline, and maybe even Leviticus. One of the most awkward sermon subjects, though, is money.Whenever a church leader mentions stewardship, or generosity, or tithing, you can almost hear the eyes rolling as the congregation takes a tighter grip on their wallets. It’s as if churchgoers resent being reminded about their financial responsibilities. No wonder churches shy away from talking about money from the pulpit.
Here are a few more reasons why money is a touchy subject for church leaders.REASONS CHURCH LEADERS AVOID TALKING ABOUT MONEY:
Fear of failure and lack of financial training deter pastors from discussing finances.
Pastors' own financial struggles may make them hesitant to address the topic.
Concerns that discussing money gives the impression the church is solely interested in donations.
Pastors may feel guilt about discussing funds that contribute to their salary.
THE NEED FOR FINANCIAL TEACHINGS:
Money handling reveals our relationship with God.
Stewardship and generosity should be regular topics, not once-a-year mentions.
1 Timothy 5:17 emphasizes supporting the church and honoring church leaders.
Financial support is vital for the Holy Spirit-led ministries in the church.
BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES ON MONEY:
James 1:17 stresses that every gift is from God, urging gratitude and trust.
Churches must teach stewardship and be good stewards themselves, showing transparency and accountability.
Transparency sets an example for the congregation and promotes integrity.
BENEFITS OF STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY:
Allows the church to celebrate God's provision and express gratitude.
Encourages looking forward to God’s continued work.
Promotes discussions about God’s provision and the surrounding needs.
Fosters opportunities for cheerful generosity.
Through transparency, churches can come together in prayer for God's will.
THE ROLE OF STEWARDSHIP:
Christians and churches are stewards, not owners, of God’s resources.
Psalm 24:1: "The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it" emphasizes God's ownership.
Both individuals and organizations must be transparent and accountable in their stewardship.
CONCLUSION:
Discussions on money in church are opportunities to reflect on personal financial stewardship and support the church.
On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions:
- Linda from Michigan: Am I being unwise in continuing my term life insurance through my employer, especially when I have no dependents and am single?
- Dee from Rome, Georgia: Can I pay off my credit card balance before its due date to potentially benefit my credit score?
- David from Colorado: Should I cash out my I bonds given the current interest rate scenario and try to invest them elsewhere for better returns?
- Jeremy from Indianapolis: Is it a good idea to borrow from my 401(k) given its low returns and invest in a higher-yielding CD?
- Donna from Plainfield, Illinois: When and where should I exchange my dollars for euros for my upcoming trip to Europe?
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
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