ACTS 4 :34-37 AMPLIFIED
34Nor was there a destitute or needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses proceeded to sell them, and one by one they brought (gave back) the amount received from the sales
35And laid it at the feet of the apostles (special messengers). Then distribution was made according as anyone had need.
36Now Joseph, a Levite and native of Cyprus who was surnamed Barnabas by the apostles, which interpreted means Son of Encouragement,
37Sold a field which belonged to him and brought the sum of money and laid it at the feet of the apostles.
We are still looking at this critical issue. Who does Church money belong to? Yesterday we were able to establish that the Church is a gathering together of believers or saints of Jesus Christ (John 2:19). It is a community of followers of Jesus Christ on Earth. That Christ is the head of the Church. And that if Christ is the head then no man or woman can be said to own the Church or ministry of God. At best we can have set men and women whom God appoints to steward His work.
To better answer this question let us look at the blueprint of what church is supposed to look and act like. From this we will have a clearer understanding of this thorny issue. In Acts 5 and 6 we are introduced to the idea of how resources should be collected and disbursed in an equitable manner.
In Acts 5 people were giving, selling property etc bringing it to the church for the welfare of the community of believers. In Acts 6 committees were set up to oversee the welfare of members so that nobody lacked anything. Men and women of good character were appointed to head this committee in Acts 6.
This is still relevant today as persons of repute should be in charge of this function. They must have deep spiritual grounding in Christ and be faithful, good stewards of whatever is in their custody to ensure that nothing untoward happens. So this answers our question, the money does not belong to one but to many (church). See archives on Ministerial Counselling and Believers.
Its purpose is to take care of the physical needs of its members (the poor, the widow, orphan’s and foreigners). Of course the upkeep of the church is included in this. Any surplus is supposed to be used to preach the gospel and minister to others outside of this community. Please note that God has made provision for Ministers to be taken care of by the community they serve. So we are not advocating that ministers should not be well taken care of.
The issue is that a balance must be maintained at all times. Ministers/Pastors should spearhead this noble approach adopted by the early church. Without their support and leadership it will not take place. We will discuss this issue in the future since it is important. Child of God a lot of pertinent issues have been raised. Don’t let it end here. Be encouraged to pray for your leadership, give not only of your finances but your time and talents. Be the change you want to see using God’s standard.
Post your comments and views; your thoughts are welcome.
God bless you as you remember that you are blessed to be a blessing.
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