John Maxwell wrote, “Everything rises and falls on leadership but knowing how to lead is only half the battle. Understanding leadership and actually leading are two different activities.” Likewise, knowing about fundraising and actually raising money are two different outcomes. Successful capital campaigns require leadership from your administrative team, development staff, board members, and especially your key donors. Paul acknowledged three leaders who demonstrated the qualities of those who should lead your fundraising efforts.
Spiritual Leaders
The household of Stephanas was among the first in Achaia to respond to the Gospel and quickly became leaders in the church. Recruit fundraising volunteers with spiritual maturity. Find men and women who are led by the Spirit and motivated to advance the Kingdom. They will bring insight, humility, and holy boldness to your efforts. Your campaign will move forward on your knees.
Servant Leaders
Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus “devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people” (1 Cor. 15:16). They put Jesus’ leadership principles into practice. “But whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Matt. 20:26). Some people volunteer to look important; others simply serve humbly and reflect all glory to the Lord.
Generous Leaders
The interesting characteristic of these three leaders was their generosity, “they have supplied what was lacking from you” (1 Cor. 16:17). Some interpret this to mean their physical presence made up for the Corinthian’s absence. However, the Corinthian church had a reputation for making promises about giving and not following through (see 2 Cor. 8:10-12). Perhaps Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus took it upon themselves to bridge Paul’s financial needs with their own resources.
Transformational Leaders
Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus refreshed Paul’s spirit and everyone around them. Brad, a bank president serving on a capital campaign team, committed to give a generous gift and then to introduce one new donor a month to the ministry. His enthusiasm for the project was contagious. His first prospective donor got so excited about the project she gave $200,000. What an incredible blessing! “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed” (Prov. 11:25).
Think About This: Fundraising campaigns often struggle to start because everyone is waiting for someone else to give a leadership gift. Paul encouraged the church to recognize leaders who lead. Show appreciation to your major donors who set the pace for others to follow.
Response: Lord, help me recognize and honor those ministry partners who are making an eternal difference.
Ron Haas has served the Lord as a pastor, the vice president of advancement of a Bible college, a Christian foundation director, a board member and a fundraising consultant. He’s authored three books: Ask for a Fish – Bold Faith-Based Fundraising, Simply Share – Bold, Grace-Based Giving, and Keep on Asking – Bold, Spirit-Led Fundraising. He regularly presents fundraising workshops at ministry conferences and has written fundraising articles for Christian Leadership Alliance’s Outcomes magazine.