3463 — Money Given by Saloon-Keepers
By C. P. W.
On what principle are Christians justified in accepting and using money for the erection of church buildings, or for any other missionary purpose, that was made from the sale of intoxicating liquors, or what is oftentimes called "blood-money"? C. P. W. 1. We read in the Word given to Israel: "Thou shalt not bring the hire of a harlot, or the wages of a dog, into the house of Jehovah thy God for any vow; for even both these are an abomination unto Jehovah thy God." Deut. 23:18. It would naturally seem that money gotten by corrupting men and women, debauching character, making worse than widows and orphans, would fall under the same category. Read Hab. 2: 9-16. Might we not, expect that stone should cry to beam and agonizing response be given in a house so built? The Word tells us that a "gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous." Ex. 23:8. Would the church builders feel just as free to save men from the evil of the intoxicants the giver sold, if they received his gift? Remember always that we are not condemning the purveyor of intoxicants. His case rests with God. But we do condemn his business, warn men against the awful evils engendered thereby, and endeavor to save those from practises which make them his best customers. Shall we do aught that will shade down our message, or render us derelict in duty? 2. But we should never refuse such money for the poor, the needy, the heathen. It belongs there. Thank God that some of it is returning to a channel of blessing. 3. If the money comes from one to whom it has come from the saloon-keeper, that is another thing. For instance, the saloon-keeper's wife or son has given it. It presumably belongs to them in a legitimate way, as does the money the milkman receives from the saloon-keeper for furnishing the milk, or the tailor in making his clothes. It is their money they give, not the saloon-keeper's. 4. We do not believe that God asks his servants to seek the source of every coin or note contributed to His cause. Take it as from God, and leave the channel to Him. But when it comes as a bribe, to buy friendship, or to silence testimony, it is quite another matter. Then deal frankly with the giver, and keep heart and conscience and conduct under God's control.