Most nonprofit organizations have clear visibility into donor activity: who gives, how often, and how much. But churches often treat data on giving very differently. Should pastors know who is giving in their churches? Josh and Sam take a fresh look at this sensitive and often misunderstood topic.

1. Giving patterns reveal discipleship shifts. Changes in a member’s giving habits often signal that something significant is happening in their life—spiritually, financially, or relationally.
2. Church giving has declined partly because pastors don’t ask. Many pastors feel uncomfortable talking about money, which leads to missed opportunities for teaching generosity and inviting people into mission.
3. Most pushback about pastoral visibility comes from non-givers and low-givers. The loudest objections often come from those who are least invested financially.
4. Recognize the different levels of visibility. Visibility isn’t binary. Pastors can have access in full, in summary, or through designated leaders. Understanding the spectrum helps churches choose wisely.
5. Acknowledge that the giving landscape has changed. Donations to nonprofits continue to grow while giving to churches continues to decline. Understanding this trend is essential for effective discipleship and stewardship.
6. Avoid placing non-giving or low-giving individuals into leadership roles. Leaders should model generosity. When they don’t, it creates credibility gaps and weakens the stewardship culture of the church.
7. Develop a healthy system for expressing gratitude. Churches should have a process for thanking givers appropriately without showing favoritism.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

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