I’ve now spent the better part of a decade trying to teach our church about what the Bible has to say about money, stewardship, finances, giving, generosity, and all other associated topics.

Money: God or Gift is the product of this experience. Here are four ways your church can make the most of this opportunity:

1) Use it as small groups curriculum

The book is divided into three sections, each with a number of discussion topics and questions written with community groups and family conversation in mind. Content is woven tightly with Scripture (namely, Luke 12), for a concise, practical Bible study.

2) Start a Financial Coaching Ministry

One of our longest-standing ministries at Mars Hill is the volunteer-led Financial Coaching Ministry. Faithful financial stewards from within the church meet with individuals and couples in the congregation to help them create a budget, get out of debt, and apply the principles of biblical stewardship to life. Money could help jumpstart such a ministry at your church; the Appendix section of the book includes more details about how our Financial Coaching Ministry operates.

3) Prescribe it for marriage counseling

By many accounts, money is the number one source of conflict in the majority of marriages. Whether establishing a solid foundation or undoing years of poor stewardship, financial management is a crucial topic to address for couples. Chapter 12 offers specific financial advice for couples and parents.

4) Supplement your sermon series

Scripture talks about money. A lot. Which means we pastors must address this window into the heart frequently as well. It’s a subject rife with spiritual landmines and cultural taboos, but that’s all the more reason why we must boldly confront the idol of money. My hope is that the book can be a useful weapon in your arsenal as you fight for your people’s hearts.

That should be enough to get you started. If you can think of any other creative ways to put Money to use, I’d love hear your ideas—find me on Facebook and Twitter.