Do More Ministry

We can speculate what we might do in a similar situation. Though, we'll never know for sure until we are in the same situation.

This is a key reminder for church leaders that these are the questions the people in your pews are asking. It's important that we help them make an informed, Biblically sound decision should they find themselves in this dilemma.

There is a pink elephant in the room. Admit it. Talk about it. If the rest of the world is discussing it, shouldn't the church be also?

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September 26, 2008

Threads editor talks about tithing

Threads editor Michael Kelley recently posted a personal confession about why he chooses to tithe.

I'm convinced most people would not be able to articulate the reasons why they tithe like Michael has. This means that we as church leaders haven't done our job. We've dropped the ball and need to recognize that we can no longer just expect people to faithfully give to the church. More competition exists from para-church and other Christian organizations than there ever has. At the same time, fewer and fewer Christians see little difference in giving their tithe to the Church or one of these other organizations.

We must give a compelling reason to the person in the pew as to why God designed the tithe to support and fund the ministry of the local church. Further, we must - ourselves - be able to articulate why we tithe.

Are you prepared to answer the question "Why do you tithe?" (Hint: "Just because" is not an acceptable answer.)

Related posts on tithing:
CBS Sunday Morning weighs in on Tithing
The Pulpit vs. The Pew on Tithing, an Introduction
The Pulpit vs. The Pew on Tithing (continued)
The Pulpit vs. The Pew on Tithing (Part 3)
The Pulpit vs. The Pew on Tithing (Part 4)
The Pulpit vs. The Pew on Tithing, in Conclusion

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September 25, 2008

Think creatively about stewardship

Check out this incredible video using sticky notes.

Some of the greatest ideas come from some of our most unusual experiences.

What would happen if we began thinking creatively about stewardship? What would it take to free our minds from thinking about stewardship as "same old, same old"?

Now I've got to find my own stash of sticky notes...I'll let you know what I come up with.

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September 24, 2008

Come on get happy...by giving to others

ABC News reported early this year in Want to Be Happier? Spend Money on Others that research proves people experience an irrational, unexplainable happiness from giving to others.

A couple of key quotes from the article:

According to a new set of studies, people who spend money on others, either by donating to a charity or buying gifts, are markedly happier than those who do not.

"I kept seeing the conclusion drawn that money can't buy happiness. That was based on the fact that the correlation between income and happiness was pretty low," said Elizabeth Dunn, the lead author of the paper and an assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia. "But just because money doesn't typically buy happiness shouldn't be taken to mean that it can't. How could people use their money more effectively so that it would actually deliver more happiness?"

The research was a combined effort by Harvard Business School and the University of British Columbia. They began with money but note in the article that it's the act of giving that creates the happiness, not the object of the gift. In other words, it doesn't matter if it's time, talent or treasure, giving it away seems to make humans happy.

We tend to approach stewardship as an obligation like washing the car, mowing the grass, personal grooming, etc. There is little pleasure in these mundane tasks. But what if giving ourselves to others through a cause we believe in really did create a sense of pleasure and happiness? If it did, we'd be much more inclined to do so...and more often.

For me it all comes back to the degree to which we feel emotionaly connected. Giving is an outward expression of an inward connection and commitment to a cause or person. When we help other human beings, we are exercising our interpersonal skills. In turn, those interpersonal skills result in an emotional connection.

God designed us to live in relationship with him. If we were created in his image, then wouldn't there be a longing within each of us to connect with other human beings? And if God finds pleasure in a relationship with his creation, then shouldn't we find pleasure through interacting with one another?

And don't we freely give to those we love (i.e. those we feel most emotionally connected to)?

God did.

Somehow I don't think this research surprised him.

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September 23, 2008

Tithing important for Christian business owners

Generous News highlighted an article recently published in Chicago Tribune about Christian business owners who tithe out of their profits.

"Fisher is part of a rare but growing breed of business owners who earmark a percentage of their profits for churches or other charities as an act of religious piety. Corporate tithing has become more common among Christian business owners, even as the number of churchgoers who tithe their personal incomes has fallen by an estimated 62 percent since 2002...."

The article explains that this practice differs in private and public companies. Private companies are more likely to venture into a practice of corporate tithing than public companies by design. Public companies are owned by shareholders which means your charitable decisions have to represent the wishes of the entire group instead of just one or a few owners.

Nonetheless, the practice of corporate tithing represents an integration of faith and society that seems and feels organic. These are businesses are building their brands while "investing" in the communities they serve - intentionally and voluntarily - rather than simply just paying taxes.

Something about this just feels right.

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September 22, 2008

FREE download of Essential Church

Just wanted to pass along that B&H is offering a FREE download of Essential Church. Don't miss out!

(Of course, if you still want the paper version you can purchase it here.)

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September 19, 2008

Creative stewardship education

Spending some time on Delicious recently yeilded a really cool find. Think Christian featured a pastor who took stewardship education to a whole new level. It inspired me so much, I'd like to try it in my own church.

After I found this post yesterday, I couldn't get it off my mind.

Little did I know that I'd find another shot of inspiration again this morning when I got my daily dose of Seth Godin. His challenge to thinking bigger captures the essence of what we're trying to do with Do More Ministry.

We have to change our conversation, change our questions from what can I do with what I know today to how can I accomplish something that I haven't considered or tried before.

It's a completely new mental discipline, but one that consistently brings us back to the concept that stewardship is not about preserving what we have been given but multiplying the work of the Church and expanding the Kingdom of God until Christ's ultimate return.

Get inspired. Inspire others. And do more ministry.

(And don't forget to tell me about it so I can share.)

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September 18, 2008

Twit it out

I finally did it.

I signed up for Twitter. I felt compelled to do so.

We'll see how it goes. Yesterday was fun.

It's free and a great way to stay in touch with others. Check out the Do More Ministry twitter page.

And feel free to sign up too!

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September 17, 2008

Can monkey's really experience the joy of giving?

Reuters recently reported that after some careful research scientists are able to say with some degree of confidence that monkeys can experience the joy of giving in "much the same way humans do."

This article was just too good to not post. Can't you hear the wheels turning in the heads of pastors as they look for ways to say: "If monkeys can experience joy in giving, then why can you?" (Ha!)

I would never suggest trying to draw a comparison from the pulpit. But it's an interesting thought that if our human capacity to give to others is God-given and a reflection of a giving God, then why wouldn't it be represented throughout creation?

While interesting to ponder, please don't suggest that your church members are monkeys. I don't want to go there, and I don't think you do either.

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September 16, 2008

$1 billion Cooperative Program milestone

Alabama Baptists have something to be proud of when it comes to their Cooperative Program giving. I think it has a lot to do with their ability to communicate a measurable impact to the person in the pew.

I'm curious if any other State Conventions have experienced similar success.

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September 15, 2008

Free e-book on stewardship

Church Solutions Magazine and Generis have teamed together to produce the FREE e-book Generosity - Moving your church forward.

Read the book. Send it to your friends. It addresses the stewardship questions we're already asking.

(Note: When you click on the e-book link above, there is a slight delay. The length of this delay depends on the speed of your internet connection.)

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September 12, 2008

Guest Post: Social Security - In or Out?

Recently someone asked about the advantages and disadvantages of a minister opting out of Social Security. It's a common question that I'd like to address is further detail.

First, opting out of Social Security is a very personal decision and you will find a lot of differing opinions on this issue (primarily between those who have opted out and those who have not).

In the past, some have been wrongly encouraged to opt out purely as a tax savings measure. While this seemed like a good idea at the time, many of those ministers are now reaching retirement and have not saved nearly enough to provide for themselves and their families during retirement. Opting out according to the IRS should only be a as a result of opposition due to religious principles or conscientious religious objection to public insurance.

The Evangelical Council on Financial Accountability sums it up like this:

"A few clergy may qualify to elect out of self-employment tax under Section 1402(e), the timing of which is conditioned on their self-employment income in the Social Security sense, not the income tax sense. Therefore, Form 4361 must be filed by the due date of the minister's income tax return for the second year in which the minister had $400 or more of net ministerial income. To opt out of Social Security, a minister must certify that he opposes, either conscientiously or because of religious principles[emphasis mine], the acceptance of any public insurance (with respect to services performed as a minister), including Social Security coverage. Either opposition must be based on religious belief."

Guidestone Financial Resources of the SBC, also provides a great resource on helping ministers to make this determination. Guidestone offers this caution:

"In very limited circumstances, ministers may "opt out" of Social Security or exempt themselves from self-employment (SECA) taxes with respect to their ministerial earnings. However, very few ministers qualify for this exemption. Many new ministers apply to opt out without knowing they are ineligible. Ministers may apply to opt out only if they are opposed on the basis of religious considerations to accepting benefits from Social Security[emphasis mine]or any other public insurance system that provides retirement or medical benefits. They cannot apply if their sole objection to participation in the Social Security program is payment of taxes, or any other reason."

Another issue that I have seen in denominational life is that many organizations/churches provide a supplement to assist the minister with 1/2 of the Social Security taxes (A Social Security Stipend). In some organizations, the ministers who had "opted out" of Social Security did not receive this stipend, as it was reserved only for those who "had to pay the tax". So in effect, the supplement only helped those who were still in Social Security and the ones who had opted out were on their own completely. (Obviously, this does not seem totally fair, but that is often the way life is.)

If a minister opts out of Social Security (assuming they do not have another secular job) they need to replace Social Security with disability insurance, retirement savings, survivor benefits and some life insurance for their families. Also, normally a nonworking spouse can receive ½ of their working spouse's social security. If the minister opts out of Social Security, the non-working spouse will not receive any social security either and in case of the death of the working spouse, will have to rely on savings or the generosity of others to survive (See Mission: Dignity SBC) . Attorney and CPA,

If you still have questions and would like to discuss this further, e-mail me. I'd be happy to discuss them with you further.

This document has been prepared by Bill Townes, CPA, MBA as a ministry of the North American Mission Board. His ministry efforts are made possible through your gifts to the Cooperative Program and the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering.

More posts from Bill Townes:
Rules and timing of charitable gift receipts
Connecting stewardship with church planting

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September 11, 2008

Even in tough times, make the ask

In Time to Ask is Now, fundraisers say, one fundraising consultant is quoted saying:

"There are 1.4 million registered charities," she said. "If you don't ask your donors, they are going to be asked by other people."

Jeff Brooks, author of Donor Power Blog, agrees. He says in Tough Times? Don't give up that the best time to ask donors for money is when you - the organization - are in the MOST need.

But why? That seems as counterintuitive as the old "buy low, sell high" stock market advice. It just doesn't feel right. And if you're like most church leaders, then asking for money is already a high-stress task that you feel forced to do. Add to the scenario a weakened economy and you're even less likely to make the ask.

As one of my former pastors used to say: "Take a baby aspirin and get over it." The responsibility to fully fund and sustain the ministries we are called to lead falls on our shoulders. There is no better time than the present to ensure that this is the legacy you create today and leave behind for the next person who fills your shoes.

Get out there and make the ask!

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September 10, 2008

How much can we raise?

Great article from Jim Sheppard with Generis.

If you're thinking about embarking on a capital fundraising campaign, this is a great summary of what you need to consider before (or as) you begin.

He outlines five indicators that measure a church's ability to accomplish its capital fundraising goal: Clear vision of ministry; Strong staff leadership; strong lay leadership; Unity of leadership; and Strong consensus as to the need for the funds.

I think the last one is the most important. If the general population (those who will be actually funding the pledges) don't support or understand the need, then the money raised won't be consistent with the pledges made. Church leaders get in trouble when they "push through" a capital campaign and forget to ask the person in the pew if they see the need too.

Anyone care to share if their personal experience proves these indicators to be accurate? Can you think of an indicator that Jim didn't mention in his article but you've learned is absolutely critical to success?

Share you story by clicking the "comments" button below.

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September 9, 2008

My suggestions for leftover capital campaign materials

Yesterday I asked you to consider how you would advise a church leader who e-mailed me an interesting question. He had some leftover capital campaign materials that he didn't want to just throw away. But he also didn't want to just give them away without knowing the recipient would actually use the materials.

I asked for your comments yesterday to the initial e-mail. Today I'll post my response.

Wow! Great to read through your e-mail. I think you are on the right track with not just throwing something away that may help another church. And I agree with you that often people equate "free" with "no value." I've never done what you're talking about doing, so I don't have your experience to draw any conclusions from.

Have you talked to your Associational Director of Missions or the Stewardship Director for the State Convention? These men usually interface with churches much smaller than yours and might know a church in need right off the top of their head.

As far as how much to charge, I don't know how to advise you on this. Here are a couple of ideas that come to mind:

1. You can put a price on it and when the church is willing to write the check (which means they've made a commitment and have attached value to the materials), give them the materials at no charge and explain that your intention was to prevent someone from just taking the material and throwing it away.

2. You could charge for the materials and refund the amount upon completion of the campaign.

3. You could charge for the materials but wave the fee if the church pastor and leadership was willing to be mentored through the process by members of your team/staff. (This obviously requires commitment from your church, but I've seen this work very effectively. As you know, churches listen to other churches.)

Does any of this help?

Do you agree? Am I missing any options?

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September 8, 2008

What to do with leftover capital campaign materials?

I received an e-mail today from a church leader (and new blog reader - yeah!) asking a very appropriate question. He has some additional capital campaign materials left over and doesn't want to just throw them away. He'd like to find a good home for them but wants to make sure that the receiving church puts these materials to good use.

I asked if it'd be OK to share the e-mail with you to get your input. He agreed. It's a question that I'm sure many churches are asking (or at least have asked).

Greetings, found your blog today and had a suggestion. My church (southern Baptist) is near completion of a capital campaign. We spent a great deal of effort (and some expense) in creating graphics, themes and various pieces to make the communications program. We are about finished and see no value to tossing them away. It seems much more prudent to share them with another congregation who may be in the planning phase of their own campaign.

Our theme is "destination: inheritance"

We have (in no particular order)

1. - a launch video,


2. - a 30-day bible study guide,


3. - 4 week lesson(s) on stewardship,


4. - a nice logo,


5. - an e-newsletter format,


6. - 2 large banners,


7. - 2 small banners,


8. - a powerpoint slide format


9. - examples of pledge cards, envelopes and letters


10. - and 10 floor mats

Needless to say, we invested a good deal of time putting all of this together. Seems wasteful not to find another home for it.

Also, in my personal experience of giving away "used' church materials, I think we may find a better home if we charge a nominal fee for the campaign 9say $1,0000 rather than offer it for free. We don't need them money, but the other party will usually respect and honor the materials more if they paid something for them rather than treat them as "free" items or cast offs.

I am curious as to your thoughts on the matter.

Second, I am curious as to your suggestions for where such a campaign kit may be "offered". I've considered placing a small ad in the Baptist Faith and Message (TX version at least). Also seems like the sort of thing that would go well on e-bay...that would reach members more so than staff. is there a pastor portal that would be more efficient?

We've already exchanged ideas. But I'm interested in hearing yours first. So click on the "comments" below and fire away.

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September 5, 2008

Reduced optimism about the climate for charitable giving

A recent press release from The Center of Philanthrophy at Indiana University points out that how nonprofits feel about fundraising in 2008. Some key statements:

"Nonprofits are somewhat less optimistic about the present and future fundraising climates than they were six months and one year ago..."

"For some corporations and donors with lower or fixed incomes, philanthropy may be seen as a kind of luxury good."

If I'm a church leader, why should I care about this? Church leaders who understand what it takes to build and operate sustainable orgaizations and ministries that will exist well beyond their own tenure are willing to state and identify the brutal facts.

If the potential exists for fewer dollars to be available to fund the "dream" budget of 2008, how will you decide what to cut and what to keep? Not asking this question could be a disaster. In turn, how you answer this question will reveal what you value and hold to be essential to the ministry and work of the church.

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September 4, 2008

Concerns about e-giving

Russell Woodbridge, a faculty member at SEBTS, expresses some concerns and hesitations on the practice of e-giving in churches in "Online Giving - Is it Profitable?".

His stated concerns echo much of traditional theology as it understands and interprets the public collection of money during a Worship service to be essential to the total corporate worship experience. I don't disagree.

The tension comes from practioners - those filling the pulpits across this land - who are faced with increased budgets and ministry expectations and are being pushed by the people funding those budgets and ministries to have the option of giving online.

I think the fallacy of Woodbridge's concerns come from not seeing a "both-and" solution. We have customers who offer online giving and include that as a "fund" line on the church's offering envelopes. This allows the member to give online and to participate in the worship experience.

The theology of giving and the practice of giving must find a way to co-exist. This is the challenge. And the reality is that it's already happening. Our envelope service subscribers are already merging the theology and practice of giving with great success.

What excites me most about Woodbrige's article is that the subject of online giving is forcing the Christian community to re-engage with the concepts of church stewardship and giving. This dialog can only bring about positive results as church leaders become more strategic and intentional about establishing sustainable ministry habits to ensure the work of the church continues until Christ's return.

Related Posts on E-giving:
Churches increase use of online giving
Electronic Giving, Part 1: The Forbidden Conversation
Electronic Giving, Part 2: Future or Fad?

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September 3, 2008

Stewardship and student ministry

Why would anyone in student ministry care about the subject of stewardship? It's not relevant. It's not cool. It's a word that represents my grandfathers generation, not this emerging generation, right?

Believe it or not - stewardship is emerging in student ministry circles. Take for examples the new version of Making Change for students. This is an one of many attempts to present the concepts of stewardship to teenagers as they are forming habits and worldviews with respect to their time, talents and treasures.

Don't get me wrong. The study guide for students to Making Change is a good resource. But it's still missing something.

I think if we're going to reshape the conversation on stewardship so that students care about the subject, we're going to have to begin talking about it in a language and using a lens that fits their culture. This requires a much more comprehensive shift in perspective than simply vocabulary and age appropriate life application exercises.

Stewardship must be presented as a holistic approach to life--a lifestyle that leads to ultimate satisfaction and fulfillment. It's so much more than a tithe. Stewardship is seeing everything we have and are as God's gift to us to be "distributed" for the benefit of the Kingdom.

It's the source of purpose and meaning and calling and all that other stuff that occupies the minds of students.

What are you using to teach stewardship to your students? Has anyone found anything that applies a postmodern worldview to the practice of stewardship?

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September 2, 2008

An exercise in stewardship word association

Why does Google associate stewardship with the environment? Why is stewardship in churches synonymous with capital fundraising and the annual tithing emphasis? Why did stewardship get left out of our theological vocabulary and words like redemption, propitiation, justification, etc. survive? When did being disciples and being stewards become two seperate endeavors?

Just curious. Your thoughts?

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