Posted on: March 3, 2009
In my work with churches and in particular with pastors, I often hear pastors declare that they make it a practice not to know how much people give. While their motivations are always right, I’m not sure this is always the best practice.
The number one reason pastors give for not knowing how much people give is that they may treat people differently based on their giving. If this is the reason, the pastor should have the treasurer or some other trusted person at least let him know if leaders are giving biblically.
Four reasons for a pastor to know how much people give:
1. The Bible demonstrates the benefits of the leader knowing how much people give.
• Ananias and Saphira’s gift in Acts 5
• David and the leader’s giving in I Chronicles 29
• The widow’s mite in Mark 12:42-44
2. Leaders are required to lead by example.
• It is wrong for a person to be in a position of leadership and not be a faithful tither and strong supporter of the church.
• People can only be expected to rise to the level of leadership demonstrated to them.
3. The pastor must know where further teaching and discipling is needed.
• It may be a matter of education. Perhaps people need Biblical teaching on giving.
• It is unrealistic to expect people to grow in the Lord if they don’t have the issue of giving in order.
4. If a person stops giving, the pastor should know.
• If a faithful giver suddenly stops giving, there usually is a reason. Unfortunately the reason may indicate dissatisfaction with the church. The pastor can address these issues if he knows the giving has stopped.
• Possibly the family is in need and they are too embarrassed to ask. The pastor who is informed can seek help to get people through a hard time.
Phil Drost
Senior Consultant
MasterPlan Stewardship Campaigns