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Summary:
In this conversation, Michael Easley, Tim Harlow, and Mike Glenn open up about one of the ministry’s most uncomfortable topics: money. They share the emotional, spiritual, and practical tensions behind capital campaigns and asking congregations to give—again. From exhaustion over repeated “once-in-a-lifetime” asks to the deeper realization that stewardship is a spiritual issue, not a financial one, the pastors don’t shy away from the awkwardness. They address the idol of money that silently enslaves so many and reflect on Jesus’ boldness in confronting it.
They share numerous personal stories—from a woman doubling her giving in faith, to anonymous donors experiencing joy, to the freeing power of debt-free living. The pastors agree: the dread of fundraising can cloud the greater truth that generosity is transformative, both for the giver and the church. Stewardship isn’t about guilt—it’s about discipleship and spiritual maturity.
Takeaways:
- You’re not giving God 10%—you’re managing 100% of what’s already His.
- If you’re uncomfortable talking about money in ministry, you’re likely confronting your own idol.
- Generosity is not about guilt—it’s about freedom, joy, and trust in God’s provision.
- The spiritual battle over money is real—Jesus talked more about that than heaven or hell.
- When stewardship is taught consistently, fundraising becomes a celebration, not a burden.
- Faithful givers don’t complain—they rejoice in what God is doing through their sacrifice.
ABOUT MIKE GLENN
Mike Glenn is a husband, father, and grandfather as well as an author and speaker. He loves working with people to help them understand what the gospel means for them in their everyday lives and equipping them with the tools to reach their lost neighbors and friends.
ABOUT TIM HARLOW
Tim Harlow was the senior pastor of Parkview Christian Church, a multi-site church of nearly 10,000 in the south suburbs of Chicago. Tim and his family moved to Chicago in 1990, when it was a church of 150 people in a heavily unchurched area. Now the church is an indispensable part of the community. It is made up of former gang leaders and business owners, ex-strippers and soccer moms alike, all who are excited about Jesus and involved in doing ministry in the greater Chicago area and around the world.
Tim graduated in 1983 with a B.B.L. from Ozark Christian College. He received a Master’s in Religion from Wayland Baptist University in Texas. Tim also received a Doctorate in Ministry from Northwest Graduate School in Seattle.
In 1984, Tim married Denise and they have been partners in life and ministry ever since. They have three daughters and three sons-in-law: Rachel (Ash), Lauren (Tommy), and Becca (Andy). They also have have five beautiful grandchildren: Charlie, Olivia, George, Caleb, and Margaret!
Tim is the author of two books, Life on Mission: God’s People Finding God’s Heart for the World and What Made Jesus Mad? Rediscover the Blunt, Sarcastic, Passionate Savior of the Bible.
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