Should the finances of the church (including percentages allotted for staff, outreach, children’s ministry, training, giving to the needy (including members facing hard times, unemployment, etc) be transparent? Should the books be open? Should finances be discussed and finalized by all members of the church, or only by a leadership team? — T.N.
In my opinion, the financials should be open, not hidden. Not that leadership teams are a bad thing. (Much better than a single dictator!) But in general I sense that we should trust one another more.
Those who have financial strengths and wisdom will prove to offer valuable insights. We need their voices, whether they are recognized leaders are not. Of course not every member has financial understanding, and humility vis-à-vis our gifts is vital (Rom 12:3).
(Sorry it took so long to reply to your question. Usually I’m a lot faster than 18 months.)
