Do More Ministry

Why did you guys not consider Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey.

Crown stuff is okay....but needs motivation and is best used in very small groups thus limiting its scope.

Rick, Great question! I asked Ashley the same question. Crown was chosen over FPU because he felt Crown represented a more comprehensive plan. Dave is perceived to only be about getting out of debt. (Though I do recognize that he has materials beyond getting out of debt.) Crown has built a reputation of dealing with money beyond getting out of debt from a Biblical perspective.

Both programs are good programs. But I do think the small group function of Crown is what has contributed to its continued succcess. Accountability is key when changing personal behaviors--especially when it comes to money.

Blessings, Ben.

Ben,

In a conversation with Bob Rodgers I was told that FPU was never considered.

I have graduated from both courses.
FPU is the program that most mega churches are using, (exception of Northpoint, home of Howard Dayton). Further, Dave Ramsey is on secular talk stations so FPU has the added benefit of bringing lost people into the church, something Crown does'nt do because they are speaking to the "christian community". Crown is a nice little bible study, but to change the behavior of people you need more than knowledge you also need motivation, and inspiration. I beleive we missed the boat on this one.
FPU also has accoutabilty. Its just not designed for the few chosen frozen!

Rick,

In response to “…why Crown and not FPU…” Understand I have nothing against Dave Ramsey. As a matter of fact my home church, Two Rivers Baptist Church, offers both Crown Small Group and Financial Peace University. If you are in debt, choose one and get started! For most church members this is a moot point because they aren't choosing either program.

I am supportive of churches who are proactive in bringing help to people in debt. By the way, Ed Stetzer believes that bringing financial help to people in debt might prove to one of the best cultural bridges for churches who are intentional about reaching the community around them. You obviously get that, and I wish everyone did.

Back to why a partnership with Crown Financial Ministries. I felt Crown's resources led with scripture and presented a Lordship paradigm for believers. Getting out of debt is not an end, but a beginning. Settling this Lordship issue is the real issue.

My hope for "It's A New Day" is to see a transformational shift in the way believers live. Crown has proven to be a great partner for Southern Baptists this past year.

Ashley.

Ashley,

I agree we should offer something which is better than nothing. I offer FPU and Crown at Liberty Heights Church. My expereince is that FPU works better for younger adults.

Since we are not keeping up with the rate of inflation in our Co-Op giving I beleive that the entire SBC has a vested interest in your success with "Its a New Day." Thanks for seeing this need and bringing "Crown" in an official capacity to the SBC. And like Jerry we'll continue on the dual tracks.

Keep Up the Good Work,
Pastor Rick