Question #106

How is money to be used in the church?

What is the commentary on money in the church, what the treasury is to be used for, and what is right and not right. Where can I find the verses to study myself?

The Answer:

There is no scripture that speaks of a church treasury as such. The closest is Paul’s instructions to lay by in store on the first day of the week so that there would “be no gatherings when [he came],” 1 Cor. 16:2. Collections made before he came that were to be given to him when he arrived had to be kept somewhere. Wherever they were kept and by whatever name they were called, they constituted a treasury. In Acts 6:1 we learn that there was a “daily ministration” (“daily distribution” ESV). It is not likely that funds were collected daily, thus necessitating a treasury. Most likely, the apostles were the first treasurers. In Acts 5:34-37 we read: “34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37 Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet.”

But for what purpose can these monies be used? If there is no direct command of the purpose(s) for which they can be used (and there is not), does that mean that there are no limitations at all? Most assuredly not. God has given the church a mission. It is generally broken down into three areas – benevolence, edification of the saints, and evangelism. Thus, the monies contributed to “the Lord’s work” may and must be used to do the work of the church, and may not and must not be used to do anything else. Most people agree on that principle, but disagree on its application. For instance, some believe that providing and opportunity for Christians to play together as well as to pray together contributes to their edification and provide a multipurpose building that includes, for example, a basketball court. Others believe that providing such a facility is not included in edification of the saints and that it is wrong to spend from the treasury to provide it. Both are trying to accomplish the same purpose; they disagree over what may be included in accomplishing that purpose. Some believe that benevolence extends only to Christians and monies from the treasury cannot be used for non-members who are in need. Both are included in the mission of the church – benevolence to Christians edifies while benevolence to non-members evangelizes. Many a conversion has come from helping needy outside of the church, not only of those helped, but also of those who observe the spirit of love and generosity displayed. Again, there is no disagreement on the principle but on that which is covered by the principle.

It is regrettable that the Lord’s church has such disagreements. Of all people we should be able to arrive and a common understanding of what the Bible teaches on doctrinal matters. At best it makes us look foolish; at worst it harms the body of Christ.