Recently I was listening to a local talk radio station when the host mentioned what he called talk of a “prayer tax”. He went on to say that there has been much talk in the political world about taking away church's tax exempt status for there property. I have had trouble finding any details on the subject. But to the best of my understanding the argument goes something like this: “The biggest buildings in most towns are government buildings, banks, and churches”. Most businesses would love to not have to pay property taxes. So, why do churches get off scott free?
One reason is because of there non-profit status. But this is rather confusing because churches do make profits. Each week the offering plate goes around and the people faithfully put their money in. The money goes to pay the over head costs of running the church as well as the salaries of the Pastor and staff. Some of the money goes to missions, and some to the building fund, and some for that new baby grand piano. The point is, churches make money and grow. Just like a business.
Why then should they receive tax exempt status? I for one, think they shouldn't. Since when, should we as Christians, demand any sort of special privileges from the government or anyone?
“Then Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's.” And they were amazed at him.” Mark 12:17
Years ago I was a member of a local church that was holding game night for the youth group. I asked the leaders of the group if I could help. The leaders asked me if I could pick up some pizzas for the kids. When I asked how much it was going to cost they said not to worry about it, it was all taken care of. So, I picked up the pizzas and brought them back. But I kept wondering, when they paid for these pizzas. So, I asked the leaders this question and they said they called the Pizza shop and asked them to donate pizzas to the church. I was outraged! Since when do Christians turn to the world to help with our mission for Christ?
What message is this sending to the lost world? Are we privileged citizens? What message did it send to the owner of the pizza shop? Did he think that if he donated pizzas he would earn some merit with God?
I have heard of Christians demanding Sundays and Wednesday nights off so that they could attend church. I have no problem with asking for time off to attend worship service or prayer meetings. But, to demand the time off of work because you're a Christian is ridiculous and unbiblical. I am often left wondering where is their faith?
Do we have such little faith in God that we must turn to the world for solutions?
I once met a person who claimed to be a Christian but had the attitude of : “If you want something you have to take it”. This person fell in lock step with this notion of demanding special privileges. Even taking it so far as to think that was some sort of a biblical mandate.
“[Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3
We are to be the light of the world, not the leaches of it. Did our Savior demand special treatment when He was here? Did He demand the finest accommodations, and special treatment. Did He even demand justice when He was falsely accused? He was God in flesh, worthy of these things and more.
I am amazed at the contradictory thinking on this matter. When I went to college the Christian school I attended refused to allow me to use the G.I. Bill to help pay for my education. I payed into it when I was in the military. It was my money. Their reasoning was that if they except government money then the government could tell them what to teach and what not to teach. Yet, this same Christian school has no problem making full use of their government tax exemptions.
I think that removing the tax exemptions from churches would be a blessing to the universal church. Let me explain. If churches didn't get tax exemption they may have to depend on the Lord more. They may not be so focused on building a huge church building and instead focus on glorifying God. Second, young men would not be drawn to the ministry for what it has to offer them, but out of pure dedication to Christ. I believe that if churches lost their tax exemption today, many men would leave the ministry immediately and churches would close their doors. I say good riddance!
We live in a country where there are churches on every corner. Yet, if you were honest, most of them aren't worth a plumb nickel. The true gospel has been forsaken in this land. More churches haven't helped anything. In fact they have hindered more than helped.
What if we as Christians actually had to trust in God for our provisions? What if we had to give up our big churches and meet in homes? What would happen if, or when, our country becomes so hostile to Christianity that we must meet in hiding? This will separate the wheat from the tares. People will only stand for something as long as it is comfortable to stand. As long as it doesn't demand too much of them. As long as it doesn't interfere with their way of life.
The privileges of being a Christian are not the comforts of this wicked and dying world. It is a privilege to stand with the Savior. To suffer for His name sake.
“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:21
Undoubtedly, many pastors and church goers will cry foul. But, we must ask ourselves what truly matters. Our tax breaks or our unwillingness to compromise truth. Remember, the early church grew because it was under persecution. Under fear of death Christians would share the gospel of Christ. Only true Christians will die for the truth. The rest will give in to the world to spare themselves discomfort and pain. Where will you stand?
“By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” Hebrews 11:24-26
3 comments:
For a long time I held a very similar stance. Now, I don't believe anyone should have to pay a property tax, churches included. I am so tired of tax this and tax that. I understand that government must get it's operating capital from somewhere and nobody is going to voluntarily donate money.
However, I like the idea of a Fair Tax where the government, from federal to state to local, get their operating capital from a simple sales tax. The more someone buys the more they pay in tax.
Of course, many of the same sales tax exemptions should apply - such as not taxing food at the grocery store, etc. But I believe the government could slim down it's wasteful spending by eliminating programs that are antiquated. They can make programs that do work more efficient in their processes.
The IRS could be pretty much eliminated if a Fair Tax plan were implemented.
Churches would pay taxes on the taxable items they purchase just like everyone else.
Just a thought!
Take care and love you cuz!
Todd, you are absolutely right! I never thought I would say that. Hehe. Actualy, the point I trying to make was, if the rest of the citizens and businesses have to pay property taxes then churches shouldn't' get special treatment. I appreciate your insight!
And I appreciate yours as well.
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