In stark contrast to the faith-alone model of fundraising stands the method on the other end of the spectrum – direct appeal fundraising. The father of this model is the Apostle Paul, as we have already seen. Yet the champion of this model in modern times is Dwight L. Moody, the powerful American preacher from the late 19th century.
D. L. Moody was highly opposed to a faith-alone model of fundraising. In fact, he saw incorporation of it as a lack of faith. For Moody, faith meant that you had to do something to show your faith. The Bible says “faith without works is dead”, and Moody could not have agreed more.
“I show my faith when I go to men and state to them the needs of the Lord’s work and ask them to give to it”, Moody said.
And ask them he did.
R. A Torrey, Moody’s successor in the ministry said, “millions of dollars passed into Mr. Moody’s hands, but they passed through; they did not stick to his fingers”.
D.L. Moody was not shy about his direct appeal fundraising. He had no problems “talking money” with any potential supporters that he met or talked with. Again, he did not believe that asking showed a lack of faith; rather, it showed the presence of faith in his view.
D. L. Moody was notorious for directly asking whomever he met for money. He would ask beggars, princes, and everyone in between if they would like to have a part in what God was doing through his ministry. Moody truly believed that as God’s servant it was his job to ask for money. He said “Blessed are the money-raisers, for in heaven they shall stand next to the martyrs”. That is a very high view of fundraisers indeed! Whether you agree or disagree with him, one thing is for certain: D. L. Moody followed the biblical pattern of direct appeal fundraising, and God blessed him mightily for it with a ministry that impacted a nation.
So, as we have learned in this series of posts, it is important to have a clear perspective on the biblical and historical precedents of fundraising in order to make wise, God-honoring decisions. Direct appeal fundraising, bathed in humility, prayer, and ultimate reliance on God’s provision, is the foundation for successful missionary activity.
Here’s to better, biblical, effective fundraising that will honor the Lord, empower the giver, and strengthen the ministry!