Pearls of the Ministry: Divine Care, Biblical Convictions, and Financial Integrity in the Church.
The church consistently draws individuals from diverse social backgrounds. At times, we fall prey to deception, treating those who merely appear to be from a higher social class differently. In James 2:1-4, The scripture counsels us to avoid falling into that trap, "My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, 'Here’s a good seat for you,' but say to the poor man, 'You stand there' or 'Sit on the floor by my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?" God warns us not to be swayed by appearances.”
Once, an individual visited the church and requested a pastoral visit. Possessing wealth, he displayed a certain level of extravagance during the pastoral visit. Amidst various discussions on gospel life topics during our time together, one conversation revolved around my firm belief that the act of giving is a responsibility for those who understand the significance of who Jesus is and what he has accomplished (1 Corinthians 16.1-4).
You might wonder: Where is the pearl? After a few months, the Brazilian Federal Police conducted searches in the city due to illicit activities and arrested four important men, and that man was one of them. I could see the divine care of not leading me to a moment of weakness. I could have been deceived by some kind of favoritism towards him and might have accepted a large donation, exposing the church and myself. Imagine the Brazilian Federal Police discovering check deposits for the church and involving the church in the investigations, even though the church had nothing to do with that. It would raise suspicion and unnecessary exposure to the church, entangling it in those illicit activities.
Like a preserved pearl shines brightly a church that maintains an unblemished reputation becomes a beacon of hope and guidance, for those, in search of a personal relationship with the Lord.
Antonio Mendes
Church and Ministry Leadership Consultant
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