From time to time a church needs to revisit benevolence practices, review policies, and update guidelines. Over the last three years requests for assistance to church congregations have increased…… the result of post-hurricane higher power bills, COVID closures and employment setbacks, rising inflation, doubling of gas prices, skyrocketing rents, etc. Many are struggling to make ends meet, especially elderly and single- income family households. Concurrent with these factors, fewer people every year seem to be connected to a faith community or even identify as “believers” in Jesus Christ.
A church fellowship is not a social service agency. A congregation’s first commitment is to the well-being of its members’ families and attendees who are experiencing hardship. Beyond that we are to serve our neighbors, particularly those in our city in immediate crisis for which a prompt and appropriate response can help overcome the temporary problem and be a refuge in a storm. It is not to dispense funds to all-comers seeking help, particularly on a repeated basis, who have not planned for expected needs or adjusted budgets for regular anticipated household expenses. Responsibility for kingdom resources calls for wisdom, accountability, and stewardship, as well as generosity.
The Fellowship of Believers: A LOCAL COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS WHO LIVE THEIR LIVES TOGETHER- The Church”
Acts 2:42-47- “They DEVOTED themselves TO the apostles’ TEACHING AND TO FELLOWSHIP, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 ALL THE BELIEVERS WERE TOGETHER and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day THEY CONTINUED TO MEET TOGETHER IN THE TEMPLE COURTS. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And THE LORD ADDED TO THEIR NUMBER daily THOSE WHO WERE BEING SAVED.”