FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

In todays society where there is so much greed and financial misuse, it is only reasonable that people would want to know the financial policy of a local church. For this reason, the staff and Trustees of Emmanuel Baptist Church feel a sense of accountability to the congregation for every dollar that is spent and used. Three things should be of general interest:

l. WHAT IS STEWARDSHIP?

Stewardship is based on the principle found in 1 Cor. 6:19, 20, that we are bought with a price and are a possession of the Lord. With this in mind, stewardship involves returning to the Lord that which rightly belongs to him. This involves time, talent and tithe. These are to be offered not begrudgingly, but cheerfully and willingly, motivated by our love for Jesus Christ [2 Cor. 9:7].

There are three types of financial stewardship:

All financial stewardship must be governed by three principles: It must be done privately, not to be seen of men [Mt. 6:1-4]; financial stewardship must be done proportionately [1 Cor. 16:2]; and financial stewardship must be from a willing and cheerful heart [2 Cor. 9:7].

2. HOW ARE FUNDS RECEIVED?

Emmanuel Baptist shares a conviction that the local church should receive its funds only one way, through the tithes and offerings of Gods people - I Cor. 16:1, 2. For this reason we do not have bake sales, sell raffle tickets or in other ways solicit money from society in general. Financial stewardship is not a matter of simply raising money for ministry; but, it is a way of rearing saints, testing commitment, and enhancing worship.

Financial giving is a personal matter between the believer and God, therefore, every effort is taken to protect the confidentiality of each gift (Mt. 6:1). Even though we believe that the Bible teaches the principle of tithing - Mal. 3:8, 9, still, all giving must be done cheerfully and out of a willing heart (II Cor. 9:7). For this reason, there is never any pressure or coercion, and there is never a time when the record of giving goes beyond the Church Treasurer.

We do recommend that all members and friends of Emmanuel use the dated and numbered envelopes that are passed out each year. This enables the Treasurer to keep accurate records, and also provide an end-of-the-year statement of gifts to the church throughout the year. If you want a box of envelopes, simply call the church office and one will be sent to you. Please note, however, that end-of-the-year reports are sent only to those using numbered envelopes.

3. HOW ARE FUNDS DISBURSED?

Local church ministry today is expensive, and it is very important that proper safeguards are used to protect what Gods people have entrusted. At Emmanuel, it is the responsibility of the Trustees to oversee the use of all funds by having a budget approved each year by the congregation. Discretional expenses beyond the budget may be approved by the Trustees if under $500, otherwise, it must be approved by the congregation. In any case, a strict system of checks and balances assures the maximum protection of Gods resources, and no one is free to disburse funds without proper authority or without personal accountability to the congregation.

4. HOW ARE FUNDS REPORTED?

The staff of Emmanuel feels a sense of responsibility, not only to the contributor, but more importantly to God. Every effort is taken to earn the trust that is placed in the Treasurer and Trustees. For this reason, each quarter, during the quarterly Business Meeting, a complete Treasurers report is printed and made available. This report contains the total receipts a well as a listing of each disbursement. Nothing is hidden or obscured in bureaucracy. Further, it is the responsibility of the Trustees to seek a yearly audit from an outside auditing firm.

5. DESIGNATED GIVING

As has already been mentioned, Emmanuel operates on a budget system that is designed to govern all disbursements. This means that funds cannot be designated for any project other than that which is pre-approved by the trustees or congregation. Recent IRS laws that apply to nonprofit organizations like ours have restricted the common practice of designated giving.

6. MEMORIALS

Many familys wish to leave a memorial contribution upon the death of a loved one. In such a case, a special fund is established until the project is completed. A family may designate the funds to an existing project, the general fund, or may request that the funds be directed to a new project. The church staff will offer assistance upon request.

A memorial book recognizing each memorial project is displayed in the church foyer.

7. STEWARDSHIP IS FOR YOU

It is not possible to be too poor to give. The proportionate design of Biblical stewardship includes all people, from all income brackets. Biblical teaching involves regular consistent giving on a weekly basis. Though special offerings are received at Emmanuel from time to time, the basis of Biblical stewardship involves a weekly worshipful experience. Gods richest blessing is received when His word is obeyed faithfully. It has often been said: "I cannot afford not to tithe, because I cannot afford to be without Gods blessing." So, financial stewardship becomes, in a real way, a major test of ones commitment to Christ: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also," Mt. 6:21. Emmanuel does not depend on the large gift of a few--but, rather Gods promise to bless the faithfulness of all. To this end, God has and is blessing.

8. ESTATE PLANNING

Biblical stewardship not only involves our tithes and offerings, but also the planning of one's estate. For one to die without an estate means that the state will make the decision for you, and of course, the state does not share your spiritual convictions. It is essential therefore, that every Christian have a properly prepared will and/or living trust, which would include a scriptural disbursement of your estate. Christian financial counselors and attorneys are available to help you through this process.

Also, many resources are available to aid your estate planning, including an excellent video in our library on wills and estate planning. If we can be of further help, please contact the church office.


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