More than a decade ago, when few talked about church multiplication, Galen Currah predicted, in a published article, that the concept would be abused and zealots would claim it for personal gain. Unfortunately, his prophecy has come to fruition. Some zealots are turning church multiplication movements into another popular, faddish ‘ism.’
Those who foster authentic movements have much to gain by exposing this tool of the devil who uses false claims to discredit and paralyze their work.
Beware of “over-reporting.” In many poor countries, church planting has become a way to make money. If you proclaim you have started many churches, then someone will throw money at you. Some such claims are false, while others are grossly exaggerated. Some workers claim churches that others started. Some workers count as a church a few folk who arrive for a one-time bible study.
Many start Evangelical orphanages in poor countries and report more orphans than they have, to receive greater subsidies from gullible Christians. Often, the orphans should be made available for adoption by Christian parents, instead of being kept in order to make money off them. This creates distrust that makes it hard for legitimate orphanages.
Many building projects in poor countries prove bogus. Unscrupulous Christians raise funds for buildings or other projects with no intention of spending all the money on the project.
Some Christians who were born in painful poverty find it hard not to try to rip off their affluent brothers. It bothers their conscience to bypass an opportunity to spread the wealth around a bit more evenly. This is common wherever there is a huge disparity in the economic levels of Christians. Let us stop ignoring and excusing such fraud. God is watching, and there will be a day of accounting for Evangelical scammers.
To correct this widespread abuse, urge believers to become good stewards of God’s resources by checking out any appeal for donations, and never simply give just because someone has made a tear-jerking appeal.
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