I would like you to define what you mean by "value" and also elaborate on how admission dollars - or their equivalent- translate into accomplishing the primary purpose of the Church - ie. wouldn't it be great to actually know how much money it takes on average to reach one lost soul? great article and interesting viewpoint Votes: +0

John,

thanks for your comment. I intentionally did not define "value," as I think each giver might have different priorities. Some might focus on the quality of the Sunday service--it's praise and worship. Others might focus on whether or not the local church is equiping the saints for ministry. To me, I focus on rescuing our neighbors from the tyranny of sin and the enemy--to reach a lost soul.

I hope you visit often, and comment regularly. Votes: +0

This is a good question which I have not given much or any thought. My first thought is that I am giving to God first and the church is a recipient. If I am really giving to Him, it's not mine anymore to direct. The value I receive is from the Lord...he is the one who will provide the value for my giving. I trust that what I give is being used by the church to encourage other christians to follow the Lord and it is being used to help those who have just come to know the Lord grow and develop in their faith. So true giving focuses on the other person being blessed (in this case those who may not be "paying their share". God calls me to give generously. In giving others will be blessed and I know I'll get a blessing in return. In other words, I am not getting less value or cheated because others don't pay. Is it worth it? Yes, always when it goes to the Lord and His kingdom work. Could the money be better used somewhere else. I'll give that some more thought.
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Thanks for your comment Kevin. As good stewards, don't we have some obligation to see that God's resources are put to their best uses? Votes: +0

I'm a single Mom struggling to raise two small children. My marriage and financial stability came crashing down around me a few years ago. I am a professional with a fairly decent paying job but the child support that I receive is at a minimum. There have been weeks when I haven't had a penny in my check book, a penny in my purse or a penny in the cushions. It's important to me to go to church. To give my daughters that stability and faith to grow up in despite the fact that they are growing up in a "broken" family. I hope that the premium givers in my church feel they are getting their value even though there are people like me, (struggling single Moms) in attendance. Votes: +1

if those who are giving much are so preoccupied with those who are giving little, then haven't they just become consumers? church should not be about "am i getting my money's worth". once that is the focus then we have lost sight of the vision. i think you have made a sad but painfully true commentary of the state of the present-day church. it definitely makes me think. (p.s. i found you by way of john smulo and blog comment day) Votes: +0

Thanks for your thoughts Bibliomom. I am certain and agree that having a venue for all who wish to worship, be discipled, be equipped for ministry has great value to those who pay most of the bills. It does to me.

Nevertheless, we still have to consider, as good managers of the resources that God gives us, what is the best use of them. Maybe we need to rethink everything about Church economics. That is my challenge. Votes: +0

Emma,

I'm glad you found me through John. He is a great inspiration to me, and designed my website.

I do not think "premium" givers are preoccupied with the value they receive. If they were, they might not be giving so much.

I think, however, that we all have to look at "value," and make sure we are all using His resources in the ways that best accomplish His values. Votes: +0