Q. Should I leave my Church because it didn’t help in my time of Need?

Answer

Dear Friend,

Every church has its failings, and caring for those in need is one of those areas where a church may fail. It is apparent that the early church in the New Testament was responsive to the needs of those within their body (Acts 2:44-45; 4:34-37) and without (Acts 11:27-30). They ministered to the needs of their widows (Acts 6:1-8). Ministering to those in need was a priority to the apostles (Galatians 2:10; see also 1 Timothy 6:17-19). One of the main reasons why the church should be characterized by generosity is because we serve a giving God, a God who gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16), and who lavishes all good gifts on us (Romans 8:31-32; James 1:17; 1 Timothy 6:17).

Based on Paul’s teaching in 1 Timothy chapter 5, I believe that there are a few women whom the church should regularly and consistently support (Paul calls it putting them on the list – 1 Timothy 5:9-10), but this is a small group if we follow the qualifications he has set forth (see 1 Timothy 5:3-16). Younger women should marry, and those who have a family should be cared for by their families.

Having said all of this, I find no passage of Scripture which either instructs or encourages a believer to leave their church because it has failed to meet their needs. Indeed, the reasons why one should leave a church are few. I do know of situations where a faithful church member has felt compelled to give a portion of their tithes and offerings to churches or agencies outside their local church so that some of their giving would minister to the poor.

I think that this may be a situation where your church has failed to take its financial obligations seriously enough. If this is the case, then I believe it is your responsibility to humbly share your situation with the church leaders, and inform them that others in the church have had a similar experience. I would even share with them that this has prompted you to consider leaving the church, but have determined to stay as long as possible.

You may be used of God to cause the church to reconsider its obligations, and this would be to the glory of our Lord Jesus.

Blessings,

Bob Deffinbaugh