
We are beginning to have some questions about how we see the finances being managed at the church we’ve been attending for about four years. How do we know if our concerns warrant leaving the church or not? We know we are to be in a community of believers and don't want to give up on our church. Do you have any Biblical advice on this?
This is a difficult challenge you are facing! It’s good to know at the outset that God is sovereign, faithful and wise; He knows your hearts; He know your needs; He wants you in community with a particular Body of Christ where you live; and He knows now where that is! We know all of that for certain, and that is a great foundation to build on.
It seems you have at least two choices: Stay where you are, or start looking for another church. It will require seeking all God’s wisdom to discern His will for you and your family in this. I would recommend a time of fasting and prayer for you as a couple to seriously commit this to the Lord. If your children are old enough to understand your dilemma, you could involve them in the process as well.
Here are a few links to outside sources that may be of help to you in this season:
There is a potential third option, again that would require much prayer. If you leave your current church and can’t find a new church, but you discover some like-minded people in the process, perhaps God would ask you to start a new fellowship with them. See http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/simple-church-planting
I am praying for you to have God’s mind on this as you seek Him and move forward. This may require an Epaphras kind of prayer: “He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” Colossians 4:12
Karen Coleman served as a ministry assistant at Eternal Perspective Ministries for three and a half years. She spent 23 years in Cameroon, West Africa involved in Bible translation and missionary care. Before going to Africa and before EPM began, she served as Randy’s assistant when he was a pastor. In June 2018, Karen went to be with Jesus.