business churches

Yes, it's going on in my neck of the woods too. Many around here are staying in million dollar homes. They had it on the news, still nothing changes as if those making the contributions don't really care. There is so much need in the world to have it wasted on pastors living large. I'm with you. It is a Shame!!

Yes there should be a tight regulatory framework to ensure that religious leaders do not abuse their power or positions. Of course it is hard to regulate when there are so many churches and charities, we will likely have to rely on whistle-blowers within the organisation who can see that the organisation is being led astray. Hence members should maintain their faith in the religion instead of blindly following the leaders, and ensure that the leaders are acting in accordance with the teachings. Too often they start to worship a charismatic leader instead of God.

Unfortunately, there have always been charlatans and as a result, they can lead many away from God, because the people, after a while, will finally see them for what they are and think all religions are like that. There are many ministers who become wealthy through books they've written, CD's they recorded, or speaking engagements they'd made. They should not be judged harshly because of the greed of others. I suppose the thing to do is find out where the majority of a congregation's money goes. If the mission budget is small and the minister's salary is large, you might want to find a different church.