In Judges 12 we read that the Ephraimites were desperately trying to flee in the face of a crushing defeat and the only way back to their homes and families was one shallow crossing of the Jordan River. So the opposing army stationed a checkpoint there and if the people crossing denied being an Ephraimites, they required them to pronounce the word “Shibboleth.” Here’s the problem, none of the people from Ephraim could say this word! They all said “Sibboleth.” So this is my question to ask ourselves as we begin this series. When God listens to how we manage our money, are we mispronouncing “Christian stewardship?” There is a misperception in the Christian community, in my opinion. Just because I am a Christian and am financially responsible with my money, I am not necessarily practicing Christian stewardship. I am going to suggest to you in this series that Christian stewardship necessitates giving sacrificially to the sacred work of building Jesus’ church. More specifically, that we must give to and through the church we call home in keeping with the example given to us by the first century church and then and only then have we entered into the territory of Christian stewardship. Or should I say, then and only then will God hear “Christian stewardship” when He listens to how we are managing what is ultimately His money. Our actions have a voice. What are your money actions saying to God, to yourself, to the world? I want mine to say it the way God intended it to be heard, Christian stewardship that is anchored by an unrelenting commitment to give sacrificially to and through the church I call home.