"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should 'make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,' thus building a wall of separation between Church and State."
That statement, which references the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution secures why America is not only not founded on the Christian principles of submitting all things under God (Psalm 2:9-11, 1 Peter 5:6), but is in fact godless. In fact, the argument could be strongly made that the United States at its highest levels was never intended to be Christian. This, unfortunately, is the consensus with most Americans...separate God from government. I said it that way purposely; as saying separation of Church and state gives validity why the separation was recommended in the first place (with evil Popes and "Christian" kings and all). But the bare bones of this is people want the governance of God over portions of their lives, but not all...with the 'overall authority' being one of the things we'd like God to keep His hands off. Interestingly enough, there are some Believers who feel the concept has no place in American government. That number, however is small, too...particularly at the top. How do I know this, because church organizations don't pay taxes. In that case, the love is for God to stay out of the government.
Crazy how when money gets involved the evil intentions of vile men seem legit. Most U.S. churches advocate for you to come in the door ready to spend spend spend; but won't shoot the government that allows for them to spread their message without getting bombed a dime. I get it, the wealth of the wicked stored up for the righteous. But how do we know if the secretary at the IRS is wicked. Plus, Jesus promoted paying the government taxes so...never mind. The point is, not only is the Church responsible in exploiting this loophole, it's missing an advantage of rightful dominion.
In the Bible, many of the major spiritual and political leaders had wealth (i.e. Abraham, King David, King Solomon, etc.) Not only does Jesus' ministry indicate a financial stability, but he also choose many of his disciples from lucrative professional backgrounds (i.e. Matthew - tax collector, Luke - physician). Also throughout scripture is the reoccurring theme of freedom that was either enhanced by or included monetary increase (for example, Exodus 12:35-36). Therefore, the concept of godly-inspired wealth is solid, the problem we have is the intent.
Yesterday, when it was tithe and offering time and someone spoke about how the windows of heaven were opening because of your giving, did you shout because of some financial desire you have or for a societal problem that money can help fix? Did you shout because you knew you were going to receive enough money to help that school that's falling down, or for something you just want to wear? Do you believe God's intent for financial increase solely rests on personal enhancement...or policy influence? The thought is that the church can do great things through the power of prayer, love, and everything else that doesn't require significant financial sacrifice from the head. And we can talk all the church isn't moving in the spirit jargon all we want, but the truth of the matter is the church is not a major economic player in the direction of government, entertainment, or anything else...and to that point, that is a key factor on why the spirit is relatively still. You know the treasure of your heart scripture (Luke 12:33-34), and I know you wanna tell me how much God is the ruler of your churches' heart. What how does the church bank account verify that? What organization can attest to that via your generous giving? How does your local government and workforce rely on your direction because you swing a sizable money stick? How serious do you take the financial influence that is designed to go with the manifestation of financial blessings?
I mean, you can march and pray forever, but when the powers that be are in a [alleged] deficit, they just want to know where's the cash coming from. The sad part is, we Believers are asking the same question, but we're either driving, wearing, siting in, or living in the answer.
This is not an indictment against people who like nice things or who have them. Nor does it seek to condemn senior pastors for living luxurious. I get serious financial needs, we all have them. But this is a message for those at the head of their church body. What's obvious is that there is a general mismanagement of the money that the church has and has a right to. There are countless numbers of social and public ills where at least the image of financial strength can change the laws and make a tremendous impact. In fact, if as a church body your track record of giving towards your community needs is sub-par, there is a honest right to question the mission of your ministry. Because, unfortunately we relegate the giving speech for the patron, not considering the church branch holds an ever greater giving responsibility.
Peace
Why just pray for the school when you can pray and pay for the school?
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