Todd Clippard

Topic(s): Church

There is nothing inherently holy or sacred about a building owned by a congregation.  Ultimately, all things belong to God (Psalm 50:10-12).  Though God's dwelling place on earth was formerly the tabernacle (2 Sam 7:6) and after that the Temple (1 Chr 17:1-10), God no longer dwells in houses made with hands (Acts 17:24).  God's house today is a spiritual house (Eph 2:19-22).  This spiritual house is known as the church, and it is made up of Christians (1 Peter 2:5).  The concept of a church-owned building or property is unknown in the New Testament.  However, such ownership is allowed by expediency in the Divine command for the church to assemble regularly (1 Cor 11:18-20; 16:1-2; Hebrews 10:25).

The church building is simply that - a building.  Wood and nails.  Brick and mortar.  A building is not dedicated to God.  God's people are to be dedicated to God.  This is why Peter calls Christians a "holy priesthood."  Paul said we are to present our bodies (not our buildings) a "living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God" (Romans 12:1).

Unfortunately, some in the church today are confusing a building with the true house of God.  As being only a building, there are any number of things that might be done in and around the building.  In fact, one may do anything with the building that does not violate another passage or principle of scripture.

Fund raisers for church work are not acceptable on church property or anywhere else.  The free-will offering of the saints is the only authorized means for the church to finance her work (1 Cor 16:1-2; 2 Cor 9:6-7).  The sale of any personal items is to be done on an individual basis, and the monies brought to the church as the seller sees fit (Acts 4:34-35; 5:4).