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Originally Posted by BaptistInCrisis  Quote:
Originally Posted by Seb Quote:
Originally Posted by BaptistInCrisis I am not in favor of Christ's church soliciting money from the world[...] | I have heard that from others before and I have the same 'feeling' but is there any scriptural basis for this? Especially when you are providing goods / services for the money and not just passing the plate for a 'donation'?
Doesn't this fall into the same vein as a car wash for a youth fund-raiser? I know I have my thoughts on it, but where does Scripture side on this? | I think a case could be made that God's covenant people were the only ones required to make sacrifices and bring offerings. Neither were expected from the Gentiles. Paul appealed, commended and chastised churches for their giving, not unbelievers. Phil 4:18, 1 Cor. 16:3, 2 Cor. 9:5 come to mind. |
I would also add that there are no positive commands in the NT for churches to go out and seek money from the unbeliever to help with the ministry of the word, prayer and mercy to the poor.
I would suspect that the need for 'fundraising' stems from a lack of importance placed on tithing and giving and perhaps an overinflated budget.