[Note: The following is not original with me. This basic outline provides a framework or structure for developing expanded thoughts (article, sermon, class). Although the biblical texts are all from 2 Corinthians 8-9, there are numerous other biblical passages that could be added.] This is “Thanksgiving” month in the U.S. Christians talk too little about …
Category Archives: Finances
Crystal Cathedral Bankruptcy: Will anyone learn anything?
The news earlier this week that the Crystal Cathedral has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy again raises the question about what it means to be a church, and how churches ought to live out their ministries. The Crystal Cathedral, established over 50 years ago by Robert Schuller, is $43 million dollars in debt with over …
Continue reading “Crystal Cathedral Bankruptcy: Will anyone learn anything?”
“I Got Tired of It”
I recently wrote about the $500,000 pickup. Today I consider a couple of related stories—at least the principle is similar. I talked to a Christian last month who had just purchased a new car. (I will call this Christian AB—Abby.) I was a little surprised—the car that Abby currently owned was very nice, only a …
Ministers and Taxes–Parsonage Allowance
Earlier this month, another legal challenge was filed which challenges the government’s provision of a “parsonage allowance” for ministers. As ministers (and churches) make plans for the future–both in church budgets and minister’s housing arrangements, this challenge should be watched. Opening briefs were filed with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco in …
Ministers and Taxes
As promised, here is the link to new article about ministers and taxes. Now is the time to take appropriate steps to make next year’s tax season less “taxing”. Here is help for both churches and ministers who want a basic understanding of the steps in constructing the minister’s pay package for maximum benefit to …
Half-Million Dollar Truck
With tax day past, it’s time to think about how to make next year’s tax day less taxing, and how to make a little more progress toward retirement. I am working on an article about ministers and taxes, and will either post the article as a blog or note when the article is available. Today …