The Role of Money in Ministry
Lately, I have been struck by the diversity in thought within the Christian Community regarding the use and possession of money. In some communities, large homes, luxury cars, and extravagance are considered signs of God's special favor or annointing. In other communities, wearing jewelry is a sign of sinful indulgence. In both communities, there are God-fearing people who deeply desire to please God, but which is more accurate. Jesus was clear that our possessions are "on-loan" from God and are to be used for building up the kingdom by blessing others. It is interesting to me that Jesus could have been born into a wealthy family or a noble family, but specifically chose to identify with the poor and needy. The Apostles, the foundation of the early Church, also chose to identify with the poor. The Early church, according to I Corinthians, was also relatively poor. The Law of Moses, in the Old testament, prevented the accumulation of wealth by particular families