Paul’s concern in 2 Corinthians 8:16-24 was to avoid any criticism in the way the church handled a collection of funds that would go to the Christians in Jerusalem. Paul is demonstrating integrity by having standards of honesty in giving a complete account of the use of money. He chose certain people to administer the church fund and also set up a system of accountability.
The qualifications of the three delegates Paul sends to the Corinthians for this task of collection included an enthusiasm for serving. Also, a desire to share the Good News of the gospel and to use money wisely for the spiritual growth of the ministry. They had to be honest people who held each other accountable in order to avoid any accusations of mismanagement of the funds.
It’s a shame that our national governments do not demonstrate the same integrity in handling funds collected from the people. The world debt is higher now than ever in history. At the time of this writing, it has ballooned to over $160 trillion dollars which makes it harder for countries to respond to recessions and pay off debt if financing conditions tighten.
We need leaders that seek the Lord, Put their trust in Him, and are accountable to the people they serve. Enough money is coming in through taxation but too much money is mishandled. National and local leaders should be subject to malpractice just like doctors are when they are negligent.
Overspending beyond the budget is negligence and those who let it happen should automatically be put on probation. If they do not get things in order, they should be removed from their leadership position.
Many national governments around the world are in debt. National leaders need to be held to account in how they handle the people’s money. The picture below was taken by my daughter when she went on a school trip to Washington D.C. in 2012.
This day with You Lord, help us to be accountable in how we use Your resources. May we all demonstrate our love for You by trusting You. May we have the qualifications of the three delegates Paul sends to the Corinthians in today’s passage! In Jesus name. Amen.
