Conclusion

A Final Word About the Gospel

The prophet Isaiah describes salvation as water that is offered “without money and without price” (Isa. 55:1). In the gospels, Jesus explains he is the source of that living water (John 7:37). On the final pages of Scripture, John records the repeated assertion that the Lord offers this water freely (Rev. 21:6; 22:17). As we consider the relationship between money and ministry, there is nothing less at stake than the proper advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

If the dorean principle correctly summarizes the ministry fundraising ethic of the New Testament, the implications are far-reaching. In regular church work and activity, this truth may round out some rough edges, but in other areas, it demands radical transformation. Equipped with this one maxim, we may curb the commercialization of Christianity and usher in a new era of uncompromised ministry.

In the context of gospel proclamation, accepting support as anything other than an act of colabor compromises the sincerity of ministry.

The modern church has unintentionally gone astray, blindly following the model of the world. What blessings await if we will reform our practices, calling ministers and ministries to repentance?

Its heads give judgment for a bribe;
      its priests teach for a price;
      its prophets practice divination for money;
yet they lean on the Lord and say,
      “Is not the Lord in the midst of us?
      No disaster shall come upon us.” (Mic. 3:11)