The Watchtower decries wealthy televangelists and other clergy who seem to be in ministry for the money. Typical is the following account from a 1996 issue of Awake!: “We started going to different churches on Sundays… They would often pass the money plate three times at one meeting, which resulted in many leaving with their pockets turned inside out. We went to many churches, but we found only more collection plates being passed and social gatherings.” (p. 239)

In contrast, the Watchtower places contribution boxes in its Kingdom Halls so people can give anonymously. If Witnesses raise this issue with you, you can assure them that your church donations are private.

Your further objective is to show the Witnesses from the Scriptures that there are many acceptable ways to raise money for the church, including passing collection plates and making public requests for funds.

Ask, “If I went to Watchtower meetings with you, wouldn’t I hear speakers from time to time making public appeals for money for various projects? Don’t the elders remind Jehovah’s Witnesses that Jehovah loves a cheerful giver? How is that any different from public appeals made by churches?”

Have the Witnesses read aloud 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 and have them read silently all of 2 Corinthians 8-9.

Ask:

  • Since Paul directed congregations in two large regions to take weekly collections in advance and have their offerings ready for him, there is nothing wrong with making a public appeal for money or with instructing Christians to donate weekly based on their ability to pay, is there?
  • In 2 Corinthians 9:1-5, didn’t Paul press the Corinthians about their offering so neither he nor they would be embarrassed when the Macedonians came to receive the money? Based on this example, there is nothing wrong with making open appeals for money and publicly urging generous offerings in order to support the work, is there? (p. 240)

In summarizing this issue, make clear that you aren’t criticizing the Watchtower’s methods of obtaining donations. In fact, you are saying that there are many acceptable ways of raising funds, including public appeals and public collections.

Study Questions

  1. How would you respond to a Jehovah’s Witness who tells you, “The clergy of Christendom are always making public appeals for money”? (p. 239)
  1. Do you believe passing collection plates is a legitimate way for churches to raise money? Are there fundraising methods you have seen churches or other ministries use which you consider unacceptable? (pp. 239-240)