Perhaps you’ve seen Dave Ramsey’s relatively new home. The 13,307-square-foot sprawling mansion sits atop a Franklin, Tennessee, mountaintop like a solitary medieval castle. The financial guru is quite literally living as “King of the Hill.”
At first thought, one has to wonder how someone who preaches the virtues of frugality and expounds Christian principles in his financial teachings can feel comfortable living in such an ostentatious residence.
But then again, Dave Ramsey has worked hard for his money. He’s not a fly-by-night scam artist or Wall Street banker receiving multi-million dollar bonuses despite tax payer bailouts.
Ramsey has taught millions how to live below their means, use cash to avoid debt, and save for a rainy day. These are the lessons that he pounds home in his Total Money Makeover book and in the Financial Peace University programs run at hundreds of churches across the country.
Some may say we have no right to judge how people spend their hard-earned money. This is America, after all. If you make it, no one should have the right to tell you how to spend it.
And wealthy Christians seem to have no problem flaunting their wealth. Creflo Dollar, leader of World Changers Church International (with an annual budget of $70 million), is also no stranger to extravagance. As Businessweek reports:
“Indeed, Pastor Dollar, whom critics have dubbed Pass The Dollar and Cashflow Dollar for his ostentatious displays of wealth, is not shy about his success. He owns two Roll Royces and flies the country in a Gulfstream-3 private jet.”
His members might argue that this is adequate compensation, hard-earned rewards for leading people to the salvation of Christ. It is a sign of the blessings the Lord has bestowed on their spiritual leaders.
One could make the case that they should get paid just like any other leaders of multimillion dollar enterprises. What right do we have to playa’ hate? Who are we to tell the likes of Dave Ramsey and Creflo Dollar how to spend their money? But as Christians, shouldn’t men like them be held to higher standards when it comes to spending money, especially when they tout Christian principles as part of their empire building?
While they may believe they are simply displaying the manifestations of God’s blessings, this display can easily come into conflict with God’s messages of humility. The last I checked, Jesus wasn’t known for sporting a $350,000 Bentley on his way to Jericho.
How can a leader teach lessons of humility when he’s traveling in private jets? It’s not just kids who have role models. We all subtly internalize the examples of spending and wealth epitomized by those who stand at the pulpit every Sunday. Our definitions of success are often defined by the material “blessings” we see others flaunt.
Many of today’s wealthy Christians may have forgotten that we are but stewards of the wealth God has entrusted to us. Multi-million dollar mansion and expensive automobiles may not exactly be the best uses of “God’s money.”
We should not forget that Christians have been charged with stewardship of the Earth and its resources as well. Does the private jet fuel needed to transport pastors from destination to destination and the natural resources required to heat Ramsey’s massive 13,000 square foot mansion represent good stewardship of natural resources?
But, perhaps I’m being too hard on our wealthy brethren in Christ. What do you think?
Should wealthy Christians who promote Christian principles to amass their wealth be held to a higher standard on how they spend their money? Do we have any right at all to criticize their spending?
Papa Lemon Books says
Thought provoking article with respect to Christian pastors and wealth. Since most Americans will not achieve significant wealth I believe Christian leaders should try and live a lifestyle without excess. Focusing on spiritual prosperity and not living a lavish lifestyle is a message that will help more Americans. Seeing the excessive wealth can make numerous people feel like they have fallen short of achieving financial success, especially, during these EXTREMELY difficult economic times for millions of Americans.
Erica Day says
If they’ve gained their wealth honestly, like Dave Ramsey and UNLIKE Theftlo Dollar (whole nother issue) then I don’t think anybody has any right to question what they do with it. That’s between them and God.
Erica Day says
If they’ve gained their wealth honestly, like Dave Ramsey and UNLIKE Theftlo Dollar (whole nother issue) then I don’t think anybody has any right to question what they do with it. That’s between them and God.
Debt free Divas says
I disagree with the premise of this post. Although you are entitled to your opinion. Humility is a matter of the heart. You can be po, broke and busted and not have a humble bone in your body. We don’t know how much these people give, we don’t know how well they manage the money God has given them. To stand on the outside and judge can’t possibly be the righteous judgment Jesus warned us to use. You say displaying the fruits of their labor can turn people off. I say it’s nice to know that hard work and integrity can result in the no eye has seen, no ear has heard blessings. One doesn’t have to be a Donald Trump jerk or realityTV buffoon to achieve riches this side of glory. Let’s not forget that Jesus came to give life and give it more abundantly. God paves the streets of heaven with gold. Solomon was the wealthiest man to ever live because he desired wisdom. God gave these things. The problem isn’t in the things you possess…the problem is if things possess you. “Hating” or questioning someone else’s use of their own hard earned money creeps up to the line of coveting; another matter of the heart.
Love Babz says
If you are calling yourself Christian…meaning you follow the teachings and beliefs that Jesus Christ taught and shared, then how could you live as if you didn’t know Jesus Christ? I mean Jesus could have lived extravagantly…as the son of God he could have used his birthright to en mass untold fortunes. But instead he lived simply. Without the fine trappings of wealth. How could these people say they are blessed? Perhaps I am judging. Perhaps I am being harsh and unfair. All I know is that folks like to run around and ask what would Jesus do, when we can look to what Jesus did.
Anthony from CharismaticKid says
No, I agree with you. The bible says to follow in Jesus’ footsteps. And living like a king is not what Jesus asked us to do. Period.
Xml says
o.k. who say, “the bible”? yes, but not Jesus. this book is only a book edited by humans. the money is garbage. only that, garbage…
Muup1977 says
debt free divas…well said.
Muup1977 says
debt free divas…well said.
LaShaun Williams says
As a former member of World Changers Church, I see nothing wrong with the likes of Creflo Dollar and Dave Ramsey living “extravagantly.” The wealth of the earth is for God’s people and, if anyone should be riding around in luxury vehicles and living in beautiful homes, it should be His obedient children. God’s desire is for us to live life abundantly, in all areas. Great blessing comes with faithful obedience to His Word. Jesus died so that we could live under God’s blessing. Whether or not someone chooses to drive a Mercedes or Honda is a personal choice. And, if the Bible doesn’t condemn them for it, who are we to judge?
Just yesterday, the pastor of our church made a great point about people in the church and finances. He said, “If you’re funny about money, it’s because it’s your god.” Is it more about pastors owning jets or us not having one? Just a thought.
LaShaun Williams says
As a former member of World Changers Church, I see nothing wrong with the likes of Creflo Dollar and Dave Ramsey living “extravagantly.” The wealth of the earth is for God’s people and, if anyone should be riding around in luxury vehicles and living in beautiful homes, it should be His obedient children. God’s desire is for us to live life abundantly, in all areas. Great blessing comes with faithful obedience to His Word. Jesus died so that we could live under God’s blessing. Whether or not someone chooses to drive a Mercedes or Honda is a personal choice. And, if the Bible doesn’t condemn them for it, who are we to judge?
Just yesterday, the pastor of our church made a great point about people in the church and finances. He said, “If you’re funny about money, it’s because it’s your god.” Is it more about pastors owning jets or us not having one? Just a thought.
LaShaun Williams says
As a former member of World Changers Church, I see nothing wrong with the likes of Creflo Dollar and Dave Ramsey living “extravagantly.” The wealth of the earth is for God’s people and, if anyone should be riding around in luxury vehicles and living in beautiful homes, it should be His obedient children. God’s desire is for us to live life abundantly, in all areas. Great blessing comes with faithful obedience to His Word. Jesus died so that we could live under God’s blessing. Whether or not someone chooses to drive a Mercedes or Honda is a personal choice. And, if the Bible doesn’t condemn them for it, who are we to judge?
Just yesterday, the pastor of our church made a great point about people in the church and finances. He said, “If you’re funny about money, it’s because it’s your god.” Is it more about pastors owning jets or us not having one? Just a thought.
Debt free Divas says
I agree totally. We we turn that scrutiny of others inward toward our own fiscal management practices, I’m sure there is much to be desired in terms of our own stewardship. It bothers me when people use Jesus’ choice of lifestyle on as a excuse for their own lack of productivity. We are not closer to God because we are broke and mishandle finances or opportunities.
Debt free Divas says
I agree totally. We we turn that scrutiny of others inward toward our own fiscal management practices, I’m sure there is much to be desired in terms of our own stewardship. It bothers me when people use Jesus’ choice of lifestyle on as a excuse for their own lack of productivity. We are not closer to God because we are broke and mishandle finances or opportunities.
Debt free Divas says
Sorry, that’s “When we turn…” … for clarify. 🙂
Debt free Divas says
Sorry, that’s “When we turn…” … for clarify. 🙂
LaShaun Williams says
As a former member of World Changers Church, I see nothing wrong with the likes of Creflo Dollar and Dave Ramsey living “extravagantly.” The wealth of the earth is for God’s people and, if anyone should be riding around in luxury vehicles and living in beautiful homes, it should be His obedient children. God’s desire is for us to live life abundantly, in all areas. Great blessing comes with faithful obedience to His Word. Jesus died so that we could live under God’s blessing. Whether or not someone chooses to drive a Mercedes or Honda is a personal choice. And, if the Bible doesn’t condemn them for it, who are we to judge?
Just yesterday, the pastor of our church made a great point about people in the church and finances. He said, “If you’re funny about money, it’s because it’s your god.” Is it more about pastors owning jets or us not having one? Just a thought.
PLJ says
I am not qualified to judge those who have amassed wealth. I don’t know what they have gone through to get what they have. All I can do is focus on what God is telling ME to do with what I have. It should be that way with all of us. I believe that financial wealth is just a part of the “abundant life” that Jesus came to give us, and the reason many of us don’t have it is because of our own foolishness (at least I know this is my personal case).
Info says
Having a church is a business and a ministry. I believe most people get jealous and don’t think through their feelings and comments. The bible is explicitly clear on wealth and nothing being wrong with it as long as the heart is in the right place. These mega ministers did not hit the ground running wealthy. They used God’s biblical principles to establish their wealth. People start their opinions and conclusions at the point of wealth as if these men had always been this way. It took hard work and faith for them all to arrive where they have arrived in life. Stop hating and get up off of your rear end and put your faith into action and see if God won’t do the same for you. We are all entitled to the same benefits as Dollar, Price, Olstein, Jakes and the list goes on. I don’t know about you, but I am not interested in following anybody who is not successful in what they are saying for me to do. Be careful in your attitudes and comments about the Men of God. The Bible warns us of this too. Not saying some are not corrupt, but that which is in the dark will come to light. Be blessed.
Anonymous says
Personally, I don’t believe in the prosperity gospel, at least the way it is taught in these churches. Too much emphasis is placed on money and material possessions, and very little focus is on spiritual,emotional, and even social prosperity and growth. The only ones who seem to be “prospering” are the ones preying on the vulnerable, by selling them the notion that they can buy their way into heaven. Further, it sends the message that if they aren’t prospering financially than God must not be blessing them or that they are doing something wrong. If these pastors and other “gurus” were actually spreading the wealth that they amass, then it wouldn’t be such an issue, but they don’t. They keep it for themselves. Church is the only business that has investors (i.e. people that give tithes, offerings, etc…) but see no financial return on their investment.
guest says
The return on their investment comes in the form of different ministry programs, electricity, running water, and whatever else the church deems necessary. As well as the peace of mind that you are not robbing God, but being obedient to his word.
T. Rogers says
Electricity, running water, and the like are not returns on investment. They are operating expenses. Ministries that actually serve the less fortunate and yield results are indeed returns on investment. Plus, I shouldn’t have to pay God in order to recieve peace of mind. I don’t mean to be disrespectful. However, we have to really think about the implications of some of the doctrine we accept.
FirstladyShonda says
It has been alot of great comments on this board today. I can see both sides of the coin. Just a quick story! My sister’s friend belongs to a mega church and the pastor said, if you give x amount God is going to blessed it 100 fold by the end of the week. Well, my sister’s friend gave her last $20.00 and by the end of the week she was calling asking my sister for money. This women was a single parent of two children living in proverty. It is sad because this is the case in alot of mega churches. Poor people coming in the door to feel important, rich, or for a particular social status. In the end, the pastors are always the ones getting rich. It is my opinion that he shouldn’t be driving this type of car it he have members in his church hungry and without one. I’m not saying it is his responsibility to feed the world, but he should at least make sure his flock is covered.
Bonita says
Yes agree….and I do believe if she is a member of that church it is the pastor responsibility to make sure that she has food for her and her family. That’s the problem..NO OUTREACH Ministry..only INWARD ministry…All I have to say if 85% of your church is in a finicial crisis..but you are riding HIGH. Then that is not GODLY. You are not teaching how to live in joy and peace. And being able to take care of your family…plus enjoy the perks are part of GOD if it is being taught correctly.
Bonita says
Yes agree….and I do believe if she is a member of that church it is the pastor responsibility to make sure that she has food for her and her family. That’s the problem..NO OUTREACH Ministry..only INWARD ministry…All I have to say if 85% of your church is in a finicial crisis..but you are riding HIGH. Then that is not GODLY. You are not teaching how to live in joy and peace. And being able to take care of your family…plus enjoy the perks are part of GOD if it is being taught correctly.
Bonita says
Yes agree….and I do believe if she is a member of that church it is the pastor responsibility to make sure that she has food for her and her family. That’s the problem..NO OUTREACH Ministry..only INWARD ministry…All I have to say if 85% of your church is in a finicial crisis..but you are riding HIGH. Then that is not GODLY. You are not teaching how to live in joy and peace. And being able to take care of your family…plus enjoy the perks are part of GOD if it is being taught correctly.
Bonita says
Yes agree….and I do believe if she is a member of that church it is the pastor responsibility to make sure that she has food for her and her family. That’s the problem..NO OUTREACH Ministry..only INWARD ministry…All I have to say if 85% of your church is in a finicial crisis..but you are riding HIGH. Then that is not GODLY. You are not teaching how to live in joy and peace. And being able to take care of your family…plus enjoy the perks are part of GOD if it is being taught correctly.
Deborah says
There is a difference between being rich and being wealthy. The fact is that most wealthy people do not live in big mansions or drive expensive cars. Wealthy people pay cash for their cars, don’t drive Bentley’s abd aren’t ostentatious. They buy homes in neighborhoods with excellent school systems. They are married to spouses who have excellent budgeting and money management skills. Many are entrepreneurs in boring businesses that provide services to middle America. They own insurance agencies, car washes, laundromats… etc.They have an average net worth of 5 million or more. Wealthy people, think, act and view the world differently than most people. I think we need to change the conversation. Let’s focus on learning how to build wealth by increasing our financial acumen. There is faith and then there is fantasy……..Faith without works is dead.
https://deborahowens.com
Marvin says
Such a well written article. I cannot comment on what others should do with their money, however I thank that author for bringing this up. Through the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23 comes up for me. If I were blessed with a large sum of money, I should ask myself, what fruit of the spirit would be produced from say a 30 room mansion. I personally could not be a Pastor living well off if there is any one in the congregation struggling. In my thought process, if Galatians 5:22 is true and our goal is to live as Christ, then why would I need a large home, jets, big cars, large savings, etc. Through faith I should be able to live in a modest home, take care of my wife and kids, go on vacation, etc. And allow God to bless others through me with any surplus that I may have.
T. Rogers says
Honest question, how much is enough for a pastor? When is his home big enough? When is his car (or cars) expensive enough? When are his suits expensive enough? At what point does he say, “I have enough and every dollar I get after this will go back into the community I claim to serve”? Paul was well educated and came from a well to do family. He gave that up to preach the gospel. What do these guys sacrifice?
There are CEO’s of secular non-profits who do just as much charity work as Dollar and don’t get a fraction of his salary. They don’t get Rolls Royce’s “donated” to them by their partners. Most of all those CEO’s have a governing body that can remove them at any time they see fit. Dollar IS World Changers Church. Like Eddie Long, his members couldn’t make him step down if they wanted to. What does any of this have to do with money you ask? Everything. Transparency along with checks and balances should be required before we give our money to any organization. Any organization that lacks those things will be ripe for abuse. Some people allow others to use their faith against them. At least the Salvation Army will tell me upfront how much of my dollar goes toward their mission.
Lastly, Dave Ramsey shouldn’t be grouped in with Creflo Dollar. Ramsey does not pastor a church. Plus, his advice is more concrete and can be financially verified.
FirstladyShonda says
Love your response! Well thought out!
FirstladyShonda says
Love your response! Well thought out!
Dee says
I’ve noticed it is typically those without money that have a problem with how those with money live (Christian or worldly).
Anonymous says
Isaiah 46:6They lavish gold out of the bag, and weigh silver in the balance, [and] hire a goldsmith; and he maketh it a god: they fall down, yea, they worshipJob 21:13They spend their days in WEALTH, and in a moment go down to the grave.Proverbs 19:4WEALTH maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbourDeuteronomy 8:18But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for [it is] he that giveth thee power to get WEALTH, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as [it is] this day
cara says
Sigh. Jesus did not die on the cross for us to have blessings such as bentlys, planes, and mansions. Jesus died to reconcile us back to the Father through redemption and to destroy the works of the enemy. I want the true church to get back to preaching the gospel and making disciples and stop focuing on money and carnal stuff. …A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
BeautifulBrown says
Dave Ramsey is not a pastor. He is a teacher of biblical principles, but he does does not lead a church. Also, I would go as far as to say that he either paid cash for that house or has a minuscule debt associated with it. There is not a broke clause associated with Christianity. In fact, the bible states that “The wealth of the wicked is stored up for the righteous.”
Tara Pringle Jefferson says
@BeautifulBrown – It is not mentioned in the article (but is mentioned in the article we link to) but he did pay cash for the house.
Tara Pringle Jefferson says
@BeautifulBrown – It is not mentioned in the article (but is mentioned in the article we link to) but he did pay cash for the house.
Tara Pringle Jefferson says
@BeautifulBrown – It is not mentioned in the article (but is mentioned in the article we link to) but he did pay cash for the house.
Tara Pringle Jefferson says
@BeautifulBrown – It is not mentioned in the article (but is mentioned in the article we link to) but he did pay cash for the house.
Tara Pringle Jefferson says
@BeautifulBrown – It is not mentioned in the article (but is mentioned in the article we link to) but he did pay cash for the house.
BeautifulBrown says
Dave Ramsey is not a pastor. He is a teacher of biblical principles, but he does does not lead a church. Also, I would go as far as to say that he either paid cash for that house or has a minuscule debt associated with it. There is not a broke clause associated with Christianity. In fact, the bible states that “The wealth of the wicked is stored up for the righteous.”
Joe Young says
Hi Alonzo,nIntriguing article. There are so many angles to view things from with good points to make about each one. The phrase you referred to “Ramsey has taught millions how to live below their means” is disturbing and would suggest a contradiction in his appearance of wealth. Why teach someone to live below their means when you live at your means. The word “below” just does not fit. Why we should never be lovers of money and wealth, we should also have a desire to help people live at their means and teach them to increase their means. nnSo much to say here, but will save it for later.nnThanks for the post.nnJoe Young
and justice for all says
Creflo Dollar. Interesting name. Creflo Antonio Dollar. C.A.D.
Creflo Dollar was born MICHAEL SMITH in College Park, MD.
https://www.nypress.com/article-4678-the-best-thing-about-evangelist-creflo-dollar-is-his-audience.html
Why would he change his name to “Creflo Dollar”? To attract money. He is a liar. So is the devil…what a coincidence!!!
and justice for all says
Creflo Dollar. Interesting name. Creflo Antonio Dollar. C.A.D.
Creflo Dollar was born MICHAEL SMITH in College Park, MD.
https://www.nypress.com/article-4678-the-best-thing-about-evangelist-creflo-dollar-is-his-audience.html
Why would he change his name to “Creflo Dollar”? To attract money. He is a liar. So is the devil…what a coincidence!!!
People Over Greed says
You are absolutely right as far as your overall point. God has provided enough resources to feed and provide health care for everyone in the world. Therefore, NO ONE is entitled to keep millions in the bank, or indulge in ultra-expensive luxury items with the very money that could be used to save the lives or otherwise alleviate the suffering of these less fortunate people. Nobody works 100+ times harder than the average person, such that they would be entitled to more than 100 or 1000 times the wealth of the average person in any country, while in the same world millions are starving, sleeping in garbage cans, and dying of curable diseases. The Bible is unequivocal in its stance on this issue.
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John says
I’m a freshman in college and I was planning on majoring in Computer Engineering, but unfortunately it doesn’t really seem too interesting to me, especially all the computer programming. I’m considering changing my major to Computer Science except I don’t really know what kind of career a degree in Computer Science will get me. So what is the difference between the two? Please help me out, I don’t really have too much time to ask the advisers at my university, so any help would be appreciated..
Leila says
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being wealthy and spending as you see fit…but the question here is; is there a moral obligation as a Christian as to the extravagance of what we acquire? Should a wealthy Christian decide to have 5 cars, 3 mansions and 100 pair of shoes just because they can? I understand rewarding yourself for your success but like one comment asked no matter how philanthropic one is how much is too much? Is this considered gluttony?