14 JULY 2025
Generosity starts now: why leaders must break the silence on money
In this powerful episode, Mark Pugh and Wendy Pawson unpack why financial generosity isn’t just about money - it’s about discipleship, culture, and trust.
Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms.
Listen to Episode 2 and subscribe at elim.org.uk/elimleaderspodcast.
In this latest episode of the Elim Leaders Podcast, Elim’s General Superintendent, Mark Pugh, tackles one of the most difficult and least talked about topics in church life - money.
Joined by Elim minister, fundraiser and author Wendy Pawson, this timely conversation confronts the awkwardness leaders often feel when teaching on generosity, tithing, and financial discipleship. With warmth, courage and biblical insight, Wendy shares her own story, the vision behind her new book Generous with a Capital G, and why now is the time for leaders to embrace bold conversations around money and mission.
Whether you’re a church leader unsure where to begin, or looking to cultivate a culture of joyful giving in your church, this episode will challenge, equip and encourage you.
In This Episode
Why is money such a taboo topic in church life?
Wendy explains why money often feels more personal than even death or sex and how that emotional weight affects our willingness to talk, teach, or testify about giving.
How do we move from awkward offerings to a culture of generosity?
From powerful biblical teaching to personal testimonies, Wendy and Mark explore how churches can shift from obligation to joy when it comes to giving.
Is tithing still relevant in a New Testament context?
This episode dives into the theology of tithing, unpacks Old and New Testament perspectives, and offers encouragement for teaching this topic with confidence.
How do we disciple people with a gift of giving?
Many in our congregations have a ministry of giving, but they’re waiting for someone to ask. Wendy shares practical tips for identifying, equipping and encouraging those called to resource the Kingdom.
What does generous leadership look like today?
The conversation finishes with a challenge to leaders: generosity isn’t a side issue, it’s a core part of our witness and discipleship.
About Wendy Pawson
Wendy Pawson is an Elim minister, fundraiser, and author of Generous with a Capital G, a new book designed to help Christians embrace financial generosity. It’s available now from Instant Apostle and featured in The Big Church Read series with accompanying small group resources. Purchase and access free resources here.
Call to Action for Leaders
Reflect: When did you last speak boldly about generosity in your church?
Equip: Share this episode with your leadership team or use it as inspiration for your next giving series.
Act: Invite gifted speakers to speak on giving in your context if you feel unsure where to begin.
Let’s lead generously. Let’s disciple courageously. Let’s grow cultures of kingdom generosity together.
Ready to grow in leadership and mission?
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Subscribe to Elim LEADERS Podcast for engaging conversations with today’s leading church thinkers. Details and links: elim.org.uk/elimleaderspodcast
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Stay tuned for our next episode with more inspiration and transformational leadership.