All money collected in a church should be used to promote our Father’s interests. Controversy arises whenever the issue of money in the church is discussed. It is unfortunate that some preachers resent any discussion touching on the subject of money. In some places, preachers do not even account for the money they collect from their followers. All you see is a new car, a house, and (in the United States), a private jet! Those who demand accountability are perceived as “opposing and sabotaging God’s work.” So, how should a genuine pastor spend the money they receive from their members?
Pastors should spend church money to meet their needs
We may not like it but the fact is that pastors should be the first beneficiaries of the money collected in a fellowship. In 1 Corinthians 9:7, Paul poses a very fundamental question: “Who serves as a soldier at his own expense?” The apostle is simply saying that people who work in the church deserve to be supported. He repeats the same statement in 1 Timothy 5:18, stating that every worker is worth his wages. So, let’s settle this debate: Part of the money a church collects should be used to support the pastor and his family.
Pastors should spend church money to assist needy believers
I will not have substantial scriptural evidence to support this point, but I notice that the early church had the habit of helping those in need (Acts 2:45 and 4:32-35). This scripture does not necessarily prescribe this culture, but we can be sure that God wants us to help each other.
Improve the place of worship
I believe the place we gather to worship the Lord should be conducive. There is nothing wrong with a pastor using part of the money to beautify a physical sanctuary. This includes the purchase of instruments and everything else needed to facilitate teaching and mentoring young believers.
Help the community
The church is not primarily called to use its finances to set up schools and hospitals, but such projects would be ideal for spreading the gospel. Jesus did not come to primarily heal the sick, yet He did that daily. I believe that being involved in community work can give us a crucial chance to display another positive aspect of the gospel.
Final remarks
The Bible is not explicit on how money collected from believers should be used, but there is no doubt that God wants the resources to be spent on touching others’ lives. It is unethical for a pastor to use all or a large portion of church money for personal gain or living large. Preachers who compel their members to sacrifice to buy private jets are unreasonable, especially in a country like America, where travel issues are almost non-existent.
