But since you excel in everything–in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you–see that you also excel in this grace of giving. 2 Corinthians 8:7
“Of course, not everyone in the congregation will heed the call to increased giving. Clergy and lay leaders are likely to hear a number of complaints. Do not let disgruntled members deter you from your resolve! My experience is that the most vocal complaints will come from those who give the least, not those who have the least. The whiners, complainers, naysayers, and freeloaders are not the ones who will lead the church to a promising future.
In contrast, those who already give the most will welcome the encouragement to increased generosity. These church pillars not only contribute the most, but the also ask the least in return (This is why it is fine for the minister to know what people in the church contribute. Ministers usually do not give preferential treatment to higher-level [givers] because these people do not want preferential treatment)…These are the generous and committed souls that churches can and should produce.”
Michael Durall in Beyond the Collection Plate: Overcoming Obstacles to Faithful Giving (Nashville: Abingdon, 2003) 65-66.
As I prepare to teach a course this summer for clergy on “Nurturing a Ministry Culture of Christian Generosity in the Local Church” this quote will no doubt inspire the pastors I will serve. Sadly, the anticipation of complainers and the fear of naysayers have hindered many pastors from teaching on giving. In helping them see how Paul dealt with similar responses (and non-responsiveness) from the Corinthians, pray with me that they will be inspired to cultivate generous and committed souls.
I’m thinking of my prospective students today as registration is underway. God fill the course with pastors and strengthen me to serve them well.