Foreword
Foreword
This is an unusual little volume. Two writers look at the same passages from the Apostle Paul, and draw out complementary principles on handling money. John Stott focuses on Paul’s teaching on giving, Chris Wright on accountability. I can testify to the personal integrity of both authors; and to their deep desire not only to live by these principles, but to share them in a relevant way with God’s people around the world.
We need to see our giving as a response to God’s own generosity. There is a pastoral feel to John Stott’s writing—sometimes, as he says, it may be right to reduce our giving. We should always give thoughtfully, and keep our giving under review.
Churches tend to associate Paul’s teaching here only with a call to give. I hope this short book will help to change that, for these scriptures teach much more. The six principles of accountability that Chris Wright highlights are non-negotiable. A safety-net of accountability is critical for those in positions of responsibility, to whom money has been entrusted.
Many will be surprised by Chris’s assertion that, on the plain level of number of verses, the Apostle Paul ‘gives more text space to writing about issues relating to financial affairs of churches than he does to writing about justification by faith.’ The spiritual nature of this subject is clear, and the Apostle’s theology of money, as God-centred and mission-centred, deserves keen attention.
We shall all be shaped by either the values society imposes on us, or by the biblical principles clearly articulated here. So we need to consider Paul’s teaching closely. I commend the words of John Stott and Chris Wright as they challenge us to be more deliberate in engaging with this subject, as part of a God-focused, Christ-centred and spirit-led life.
Femi B Adeleye
Associate Director (Africa), Langham Preaching, Langham Partnership
Member: Lausanne Movement Board