If you have studied Methodist history and doctrine, you have likely come across the concept of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral. Developed by pastor, theologian, historian, and professor Rev. Dr. Albert Outler, the quadrilateral is a series of four mechanisms that he concluded John Wesley used for effective theological discernment. Dr. Outler identified them as Scripture, Tradition, Experience, and Reason. They were not labeled as such, but were notably consistent in John Wesley’s writings, sermons, letters, and journal entries.

The first of July marked the beginning of my second year as President/CEO for the TWKC’s Foundation, Development Fund, and Martin Methodist Foundation. I’m no Albert Outler, but as I reflect on all I have experienced, learned, and gleaned from the past year, I wanted to mark this initial anniversary by attempting to identify a “quadrilateral” applicable to the resource Jesus referenced, taught, and lamented about more than anything else…money. These would be elements that every church and missional agency should engage to effectively manage their fiscal resources.

The first is understanding Stewardship. A steward is one who has been given responsibility for the welfare, status, and care of something or someone. To practice responsible financial stewardship, a steward sees the funds entrusted to them as something to be cared for, managed, and served. A steward, or a committee/board of stewards fulfils a purpose that exceeds the size and importance of the individual giver and sees the needs of the whole. The foundation of sound stewardship is rooted in the integrity demonstrated by sound decision-making and preserving the next component of this fiduciary quadrilateral.

The second is developing and maintaining Trust. Without trust, the underpinning of effective stewardship erodes quickly. The heartbeat of trust is a stream of consistent, informative, and honest communication between the donor/giver/investor and the steward. Regardless of the news, the interest rates, the deficit, the windfall, the market numbers, or the fund balances, trustworthy exchanges of information, data, and direction will keep emotions and relational volatility in check. Knee-jerk reactions and finger-pointing are tempting when times are unstable, but that is when the strength of the third factor is tested.

The third is strength of Discipline. Discipline is more than following rules or having a plan. Discipline keeps thoughts, emotions, and reactions in check. It promotes the patience needed to find a way forward, even if that means doing nothing but sticking to the original plan. Discipline doesn’t guarantee success. It isn’t a substitute for passion. Discipline is the gatekeeper for rational thoughts that will be needed as we wade through and emerge from seasons of challenge. When the stress subsides, having maintained discipline will mean we can be more flexible and bolder in the final stage.

The fourth is unleashing Generosity. Generosity isn’t just about giving in large quantities. Generosity is the result of faithful givers and investors working in tandem with trustworthy, disciplined stewards. Generosity is a spiritual act as well as a financial one. It demonstrates God’s abundant grace, mercy, affirmation, and hope. Generosity generates a joyful outcome for both the giver and the receiver. When we experience it, we know our cup’s runneth over and that our faithfulness has been rewarded.

May your personal, pastoral, congregational, and missional coffers be influenced by Wesley’s Quadrilateral, as we as this one offered by your no-longer-a rookie President/CEO. I am grateful for your patience and support over the last year, and pledge to give all I can to continue the good work of our ministry.

Forward in Faith!