Key Takeaways

Church leaders often overlook the topic of investing.

Gen Z is starting to invest earlier than any previous generation.

Gamification of investing platforms can lead to risky behaviors.

Teaching biblical principles of stewardship is crucial for young investors.

Young people have the valuable asset of time for compounding investments.

Social media influences can mislead young investors.

The church has a responsibility to educate on financial matters.

Investing should be approached with a long-term perspective.

Engaging young people requires going to them, not waiting for them to come to us.

Financial education should be practical and relatable to younger audiences.

Resources

Matt Bell’s Website - https://mattaboutmoney.com
Matt’s Book - Trusted: Preparing Your Kids for a Lifetime of God-Honoring Money Management
Sound Mind Investing - https://soundmindinvesting.com

Learn about the Christian Stewardship Network - https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/
Become a CSN member - https://membership.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/

Key Takeaways

The Bible provides wisdom on investing and finances.

Investing is not just about getting rich quickly.

Fear and greed can negatively impact financial decisions.

A steady, long-term approach to investing is beneficial.

Understanding market history helps manage emotional responses.

Dollar cost averaging can ease the emotional burden of investing.

Target date funds simplify the investment process for beginners.

Educating congregations on investing is essential for stewardship leaders.

Personal inventory of one's investing knowledge is crucial.

Resources are available for those seeking to learn more about investing.

Resources

Matt Bell’s Website - https://mattaboutmoney.com
Sound Mind Investing - https://soundmindinvesting.com
Matt’s article discussed in this episode - https://mattaboutmoney.com/2025/12/02/four-steps-to-conquer-your-fear-of-investing/

Learn about the Christian Stewardship Network - https://www.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/
Become a CSN member - https://membership.christianstewardshipnetwork.com/

In this episode of Stewardship Leader, the third in a three-part series, Dr. Russell James joins Leo Sabo to discuss practical ways to apply biblical principles to fundraising. Drawing on insights from his book, "The Biblical Fundraiser In Modern Practice: Helping Christians Enjoy Their Wealth," Dr. James provides guidance on engaging donors, designing meaningful giving opportunities, and helping supporters see their wealth as a tool for kingdom impact. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying wealth through good works and generosity, rather than hoarding it. The conversation also covers the distinction between income and wealth, and how ministries can better handle non-cash gifts.

Key Takeaways

Emphasize reaching out to wealth holders as a unique ministry.

Overcome barriers by learning about wealth management and tax laws.

Utilize donor-advised funds for managing complex non-cash gifts.

Encourage impact investing to align wealth with good works.

Use technology wisely to foster genuine ministry relationships.

Cultivate a culture of joyful giving rather than obligation.

Empower donors to feel like active participants in good works.

Focus on building long-term advising relationships with donors.

Avoid leadership ego to enhance donor involvement and impact.

Apply biblical teachings to fundraising for greater effectiveness.

Resources

Dr. Russell James’ website - https://encouragegenerosity.com/
Joyful Wealth Management with Dr. Russell James and Dr. Eddie Thompson - Podcast
Books by Dr. Russell James:
The Biblical Fundraiser in Modern Practice: Helping Christians Enjoy Their Wealth
The Biblical Fundraiser in Ancient Words: The Historical Ministry of Major Gift Fundraising
Joyful Wealth Management: A Bible Study Discussion Guide