Of Faith and Finances

There are certain things about which it seems no one really wants to mention in the church. As much as congregants do not want to hear their pastors speak about money matters, most pastors would rather stay away from the subject altogether. Perhaps this is due in part to the infamous reputation of those hucksters who manipulate their pulpits into a scheme for wealth. However, most church leaders display a genuine desire to serve their congregation, ministering to the spiritual needs of the community for which God’s Word promises abundant supply. So, while money matters may not be at the top of the church agenda, we would be foolish to suggest that money does not matter.

The following joke expresses well what is sometimes the overwhelming, though perhaps under stressed reality about the church and money.

Fred called a church and asked to speak to the Head Hog of the Trough. Secretary: How rude! I'll have you know we would NEVER EVER refer to our pastor as a hog. Fred: Okay, then just take a message. Tell him I've come into a bit of money so I was calling to give your church $10,000. Secretary: Well hold the phone, dearie! I think I see that big fat pig coming down the hall right now.

While it may be a tense subject matter for pastors and their congregations, the ties between finances and faith are pronounced in Scripture. Though certainly not the only instance in which Jesus would speak about money (one-sixth of the Gospels and one out of every three parables touches on stewardship of resources), Jesus’ words regarding the link between finances and faith are quite telling. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

It is for this very reason that the Apostle Paul’s final words in his letter to the Philippians (4:10-19) include a strong message to the church about the intricate connection between our faith and our finances. Specifically, he provides five principles that we must understand in matters about money.

1) Finances reflect fellowship. Fellowship is often portrayed in Scripture as “walking.” In order for two to walk together, they must do two things. They must walk together, not one in front or behind. And they must be going in the same direction. Paul was taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. These believers were walking with him in this through their giving. Paul was not alone. Paul was not forgotten. There were real financial needs abounding. While the money was certainly not the most important thing, it served as a tangible means of friendship. Many would “say” they supported Paul, yet only a few actually supported Paul.

2) Contentment comes from Christ. Contentment has been described as “not having everything you want, but wanting everything you have.” It is not a denial of reality. It is a gift from Christ to every believer. It is the recognition that, in Christ, I have everything I need. It comes from fellowship with Christ. Contentment is critical to a theology on giving because it is the lack of contentment that destroys our obedience in giving. Most can’t give because their money is already spent on the things which they believe will make them content, yet are incapable of doing so.

3) The Gospel is a gift. Paul writes in verse 15, “You Philippians…entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving.” The thing being given and received is the gospel. As per the example of Christ, the gospel is absolutely free, but it is not cheap. It will cost us everything, least of all our finances, in order to share this gift.

4) Generosity impacts eternity. Paul lays forth this principle—You cannot take it with you, but you can send it on ahead. Scripture repeatedly explains that God knows and cares deeply about what and how we give toward Kingdom purposes. Our giving will impact other’s eternity as the gospel is shared. It will impact our own eternity as we invest in the most important matters and seek to please Him.

5) The Supplier is sufficient. The Apostle informs us in verse 19 that as we give to the work of Christ through the church, God will faithfully supply our every need. Every spiritual and eternal need is abundantly met in Christ. According to His will, every physical and temporary need is also supplied.

While it may be tempting to believe that our banking account is disconnected from the heart, the teaching of Scripture exposes this lie. In fact, it has been accurately stated that if you want to know what is within a person’s heart, take a look at his bank ledger. As we worship God with our church attendance, singing, praying, and encouragement to one another, are we being faithful to worship Him in our giving. Or have we fooled ourselves into believing that finances have nothing to do with faith?

Jason