PROGRAM SUCCESS – JANUARY 2010
PAGE 25
The Influence of the Black Church on the Local Economy
By: Rev. Dr. Robert M. Spooney
Executive Director/CEO, African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Pastor of Christian Education, Fellowship Baptist Church of Pine Hills
The Black church has always had a positive influence
or affect on the spending habits of Black America. It is
apparent, however, that some of that influence has
dwindled over the last ten to twenty years. This may be
one of the reasons our community has been so hard
pressed during this economic downturn. Now is the
time for the church to turn back to teaching sound
biblical economics. The black church can influence the
spending habits of Black America by teaching the
biblical principles that govern spending. The church
must teach biblical principles of self - discipline to
control spending and keep the triune nature of
spending… that is Needs, Wants and Desires, in their
proper relationship.
When it comes to spending we must consider our
Needs. These are purchases such as food, clothing,
housing, medical coverage and others that are necessary
for our basic requirements. 1st Timothy 6:7- 8 says, “7
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain
we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and
clothing, with these we shall be content.”
Then we must consider our Wants. These are choices
about the quality of goods to be used. Dress clothes
versus work clothes, steak versus hamburger, a new
Lexus versus a used Ford. 1 Peter 3:3-4 provides
Dr. Robert M. Spooney
sight of God.”
guidance in wants
as it says, “3 Do
not
let
your
adornment
be
merely outward -
arranging the hair,
wearing gold, or
putting on fine
apparel— 4 rather
let it be the hidden
person of the heart,
with
the
incorruptible
beauty of a gentle
and quiet spirit,
which is very
precious in the
Finally we must consider our Desires which are those
choices according to God’s plan that can be made out of
the surplus funds after all other obligations have been
met. 1st John 2:15-16 tells us, “ 15 Do not love the
world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the
world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all
that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the
eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father but is of
the world.”
The Black church has a role in the local economic plan
of the communities they serve. The role of the Black
church includes the mission of empowering or edifying
its members. The church is an economic engine in the
community as it has individuals who are employed by
the church in various capacities. Most churches employ
at least one person. In addition, the church should hold
seminars in biblical economics as I mentioned earlier
and the church should be involved in entrepreneurial
programs that help members develop and execute
business plans.
Think about this for a moment, if the local church and
its members used the same bank, that concentration of
See Black Church page 30