In Theory:

First of all, even the delivery of a message is worth a payment. The Bible is clear that, “The worker deserves his wage.” (I Timothy 5:18) Often, churches, too, do not bless people financially for their work in a way that is appropriate. Ramsey is providing a service; it deserves payment.

Christians are people with a need for advice, be it medical, in the form of a trade, financial, etc. Providing this service in a church setting is no different than a Christian going to a financial advisor for advice. I perceive the fact that it is being brought into the church as a blessing — as it is a necessity in that arena just as it is needed in others.

In fact, I have witnessed Christians who make many financially unwise decisions. I have worked with people in the ministry that did not know how to manage their money. Maybe some of these individuals would not even seek out help if it wasn’t brought into their church — much like I bring parenting classes into the local church for that very reason, because being Christian does not make you wise in all areas. In fact, it can often be a cop-out to not do things with excellence, as we are supposed to.

Being sensible with money only makes us wiser as Christians. If Ramsey is a Christian and incorporates that wording into his delivery to get the message across, I see nothing wrong with it. Could he give a discount on his speaking engagements for churches and charge full fee for secular organizations? Yes, he could, if he is not already doing so. But I also see no sin in not doing that.

COUNSELOR KIMBERLIE ZAKARIAN

La Vie Counseling Center in Pasadena

The primary focus of David Ramsey’s seminar is teaching participants how to use money wisely. He advises against using credit cards irresponsibly, encourages people to carefully monitor their expenses and reminds them to live within their means. These are laudable principles that complement the ideology of practically every religion, and should be learned by all Americans in monetary distress.

Ramsey does not present himself falsely, nor do his teachings appear to be a gimmick, so I commend those houses of worship that have invited him to lecture to their congregations. I also feel that he is providing a valuable service and should therefore receive fair compensation.