Finance in Ministry

Description

Anchor Scriptures Luke 14:28 (NIV) – “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?” 1 Corinthians 4:2 (KJV) – “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” ⸻ Lecture Objectives By the end of this course, students will be able to: 1. Define key biblical principles of financial stewardship as they apply to ministry work, citing relevant scriptures. 2. List and categorize various legitimate sources of ministry income, such as tithes, offerings, and partnerships. 3. Develop a basic ministry budget by outlining income sources and allocating estimated costs to specific line items. 4. Differentiate between personal and ministry finances, and explain the importance of maintaining financial boundaries. 5. Apply principles of financial accountability by creating or using tools such as a cash book, expense sheet, and donation log. 6. Identify common financial pitfalls in ministry (e.g. overspending, lack of transparency) and recommend practical ways to avoid them. 7. Demonstrate how to track and report ministry finances using a simplified financial report template or digital tool (e.g. Excel). 8. Evaluate a sample or real-life ministry project budget, checking for completeness, clarity, and alignment with vision. 9. Explain how spiritual disciplines such as prayer, integrity, and contentment impact financial decision-making in ministry. 10. Design a financial plan for a ministry outreach or event, incorporating biblical principles, budgeting best practices, and accountability measures.