A prominent pastor and author, Solomon Salami, has stirred a crucial conversation in Christian leadership circles with his powerful message: “I don’t touch church money, only God is my source.” In a post, Salami emphasized that pastors must recognize their dependence on their congregation, regardless of whether they directly handle offerings or not.
According to Salami, “The Church is not an account number; it is a people.” He questioned the notion that pastors can claim to be above accountability to their congregation simply because they don’t touch the offering basket.
“Who are the Church? According to 1 Corinthians 12:27, ‘Now ye are the body of Christ.’ The Church… is the widow’s obedience, the worker’s tithe, the student’s sacrifice, the trader’s seed,” Salami wrote.
The pastor urged leaders to acknowledge the congregation’s role in their ministry and personal life, citing examples such as business patronage, gifts, and celebrations.
“If the same people who drop the offering are the same people who patronize your business, gift your family, celebrate your milestones, fund your vision, defend your name, then understand this: whether you touch the offering or not, you are sustained by the offering people,” Salami emphasized.
Salami referenced biblical scripture, including 1 Corinthians 9:14, which states, “They which preach the gospel should live of the gospel,” highlighting the importance of accountability to the givers of the gospel.
He concluded with a call to pastors to demonstrate honor, integrity, transparency, and humility, acknowledging the trust placed in them by their congregation.
“Pastors, the people deserve honour in speech, integrity in lifestyle, clarity in stewardship, and humility in influence,” Salami wrote.
Salami’s message has sparked a necessary discussion on the relationship between pastors and their congregation, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in ministry.