To compete for funds like big business, church leaders are encouraged to
enter into partnerships with non-church groups. There is a book entitled Pastor
Preneur designed to help pastors think more like small business owners.
ìThe book teaches pastors to think like entrepreneurs; for
instance, encouraging them to set up strategic partnerships
with nonchurch groups and to use event marketing to draw
in new members.î 18Is this the way the Church of Jesus Christ began ñ with marketing ploys, and
gimmicks? Were unholy alliances necessary for the Church to grow?
ìNow when they heard (the preaching of Peter), they were
pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the
apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?î Acts 2:37
ìAnd with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying,
Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that
gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there
were added unto them about three thousand souls.î
Acts 2:40-41
ìFor our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in
power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye
know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.î
1 Thessalonians 1:5
ìBut we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock,
and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are
called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the
wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than
men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.î
1 Corinthians 1:23-25
A gospel that pleases the selfishness and carnal ambitions of man is no gospel
at all. Jesus told His disciples:
ìIf any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take
up his cross daily, and follow me.î Luke 9:23
Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul warned Christian
leadership about how the desire for money can be the downfall for any man or
woman of God.