« Buechner on Life as Grace | Main | One Year Old »
What About Local Poverty
By daniel | January 10, 2006
An article by T David Gordon, called A Biblical Theology of Poverty and Almsgiving, gives us room to ask some questions about our approach towards the local poor. I find it hard to balance the fact that the local poor are still somewhat rich compared to the global poor, but either way, his comments towards the churches expenditures on itself (and believers on themselves) are something to keep before our mind always.
First, should the amount of funds devoted to building church-buildings be so much greater than the amount devoted to diaconal relief? Many church-buildings are rarely, if ever, used during the weekdays, at least from nine to five. Further, many of these buildings are rather opulently designed, constructed, and appointed; and while we commonly rationalize this by suggesting that God “is worthy of” such, the scriptures expressly teach that the Lord God does not dwell in houses made with hands (Acts 7:48). We should at least have the candor to admit that we are building these buildings for us; not for Him. Substantial resources are devoted to building large buildings that are rarely used. Should we not consider sharing buildings even on Sunday? What would be wrong with the local Lutherans and Presbyterians sharing a building, one worshiping at 9:30 a.m. on odd years, and 11 am on even years, with the other rotating? Half of the money currently expended on church-buildings could be given to those who need fiscal assistance.
Second, should the tendency of the revivalist/evangelical churches to expend money on missions continue to crowd out funds for diaconal relief? Each is legitimate, and Paul asserted the legitimacy of each in his letters. Paul did not, however, indicate that outreach budgets should ordinarily or routinely be larger (in some cases, substantially larger) than diaconal budgets.
Thanks to Matthew Hall for his comments and segment.
Topics: Church Life, Culture, Spirituality - Thoughts |
Comments
You must be logged in to post a comment.