~786 words - 2 1/2 quick minutes
Note from Dave Travis: Jim Sheppard, the owner of our firm gave a version of this talk last week at our corporate meeting. It meant so much that I wanted you to review it as well.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations…” The familiar opening of Matthew 28:19. The Great Commission as it is known.
Introduction:
In light of the Great Commission's call to “go and make disciples of all nations,” one word stands out—“all.” Yet, as I observe the state of the American church, I can't help but notice a significant omission. We are failing to disciple the financially prosperous among us. This oversight has plagued conversations among pastors and senior church leaders for as long as I can remember.
What is it about people who excel in financial prosperity that makes us falter in our mission? Is it intimidation, the inability to relate to their wealth, a misperceived spiritual virtue in having less, concerns about favoritism, or a blend of these factors?
I just know it is a very real struggle of many pastors.
Pastors who would not struggle with someone who has the gift of music or singing. We see the regularly featured in the Sunday worship services. Or people who have the gift of prayer — we enlist them to lead the prayer ministries of our churches. But we struggle with people who have the ability to make money. It's a missed opportunity we can't ignore.
Challenging Favoritism:
Favoritism is a valid concern, but what we often see in most churches is more akin to neglecting those with substantial financial resources. This neglect should concern us just as much as the fear of favoritism.
Why? Because it's a great opportunity lost—the chance to disciple these individuals.
Let's clarify one thing: we aren't elevating high-capacity givers above others. Consider that while all givers are equal, not all gifts are the same. The Bible showcases both wealthy and poor givers.
We all know the story of the woman who gave her last two coins. All she had. A small gift financially but a magnificent gift in terms of spiritual sacrifice!
In 1 Chronicles 29, King David makes what is probably the largest financial offering in the Bible. Abram may have give more to Melchizedek but we do not know because the gift is not described. David’s offering is described. He offered from the king’s treasure and his own personal treasury.
One pastor I know did the math on the gift and he says it is in excess of $5 billion! A magnificent gift, even if it does not represent the same level of sacrifice as the widow.
As best I can tell, these are the largest and smallest financial offerings described in the Bible. Both givers are celebrated.
Both are magnificent gifts, with one emphasizing sacrifice and the other the potential to impact the world. The church needs both kinds of contributions.
Discipling all of our givers, especially the ones with significant resources should be a priority, keeping in mind Paul’s teaching in Philippians 4:17. Our motive is the spiritual wellbeing of these people, not just what their money can do for our churches.
Debunking Three Myths:
Myth #1: High-Capacity Givers Have It All Together:
It's a misconception to assume that financial prosperity equates to having a perfect life. These individuals face the same struggles as everyone else, plus the unique challenge of stewarding their wealth. This is a discipleship issue we must address.
Myth #2: High-Capacity Givers Know How to Handle Money:
While many wealthy individuals have achieved success through hard work and wise investments, it doesn't necessarily translate to biblical stewardship. We have a responsibility to teach them to place their hope in God, not wealth, and encourage them to be generous and share their resources to further God's work.
Myth #3: High-Capacity Givers Must Not Have the Money I Think They Do:
It's not uncommon to find affluent families who don't give to the church proportionate to their means. This can be attributed to a vision issue, where the church fails to articulate how their gifts could amplify its mission, and a discipleship issue, where we neglect teaching the importance of regular giving to God's work through the local church.
Conclusion:
It's time to reflect on how we can effectively disciple the financially prosperous in our churches. This isn't about seeking extra funds for the church; it's about the transformation that can occur in the lives of those who increasingly contribute to God's work.
Embracing this opportunity could reshape the spiritual landscape of your congregation and deepen their connection to the mission of the church.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to make disciples of “all,” including those with significant financial resources.
I hope this is helpful and, as always, I am available for further conversation. Just shoot me an email at jim@generis.com.
God bless!