Theology, profit, and the challenges of the 21st-century Church
Dear Editor,
As we navigate the complexities of the 21st-century Church, the intersection of theology and profit-making has become a pressing issue. Our spiritual communities face unique challenges, and the consequences of how we approach ministry reverberate far beyond our congregations.
At the heart of every church lies the gospel — the good news that transcends time and place. Theology, rooted in sacred texts and centuries of tradition, shapes our understanding of God, humanity, and redemption. It is a beacon of hope, calling us to compassion, justice, and love. When faithfully preached, the gospel has the power to transform lives, heal wounds, and ignite purpose.
Our ministers bear the weighty responsibility of interpreting and communicating the gospel. They are shepherds, entrusted with guiding their flocks towards spiritual maturity. However, in the pursuit of sustaining congregations and meeting financial needs, some ministers have veered into dangerous territory. The pulpit, once reserved for sacred proclamation, now echoes with business strategies, prosperity teachings, and profit-driven agendas. What we are now seeing in some of our pulpits is unbecoming of many of us as ministers. Instead of preaching the gospel of Christ, we have become DJs and salesmen. It is time for us to get back to basics and preach the gospel without compromise.
The allure of material gain is not new. Throughout history, religious leaders have grappled with the tension between spiritual calling and earthly desires. Yet the 21st-century Church faces unique pressures. Rising costs, dwindling attendance, and the need for modern infrastructure can lead ministers down a treacherous path. The question arises: How do we balance the practical realities of running a church with the purity of our spiritual mission?
Churches must address financial sustainability without compromising their core values. Transparency in financial matters is crucial. Congregants deserve to know how their contributions are used and whether they align with the gospel’s teachings.
Fund-raising efforts should align with ethical standards. While churches need resources to thrive, exploiting congregants’ generosity for personal gain contradicts the gospel’s essence. Let us remember Jesus overturning the money changers’ tables in the temple — a powerful symbol of cleansing the sacred from profiteering.
The Church’s impact extends beyond its walls. How we steward our resources — financial, human, and spiritual — determines our relevance in a hurting world. Are we investing in programmes that alleviate suffering, promote justice, and foster compassion?
As congregants, we must engage in critical reflection. Are we seeking spiritual nourishment or merely chasing prosperity? Let us hold our ministers accountable, urging them to prioritise souls over spreadsheets. Theology should inspire generosity, humility, and sacrificial love — not a relentless pursuit of profit.
The challenges of the 21st-century Church demand courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment. Let us reclaim our sacred spaces, ensuring that the gospel remains central. May our ministers resist the siren call of profit and instead embrace their sacred calling — to preach, to heal, and to lead with integrity.
Ryan Reddie
