Statement from The John Ankerberg Show:
There recently have been questions regarding our membership with ECFA. The Ministry is deeply disappointed in and disagrees with the actions and decision of ECFA, but our strong faith and trust in the Lord are the foundation of our commitment to what He has called us to do and help us navigate our disappointment.
When we learned of the ECFA review, we sought the opportunity for direct communication. We were denied. As a long-time ECFA member, we believed our request was reasonable, fair, and appropriate, particularly for a member with a history of good standing. If they had heard from us, they would have learned our donors know fully how their unrestricted gifts are being used to spread the Word of God. There also would have been a better understanding of improvements in our operations. But there was no interest.
These are the facts and how we serve as great stewards of our resources:
- While donations to our ministry have never been restricted, they have always supported our ministry to extend the reach and knowledge of the Bible. One example you know well – over 14 million people in 83 countries with an Audio Bible. While the ECFA analysis was not provided, we have 10-years of data that support fulfillment of our mission. We remain willing to share the information.
- Being 100% viewer funded, 80% of unrestricted donor gifts support our comprehensive ministry outreach. Believers and others interested in hearing and witnessing the Word of God are reached through sound, sight, and testimony – globally.
- There were questions related to our Board and other governance issues. We have three family members and five external members on the Board. We are working to be more transparent, with several operational and organizational actions.
- There were concerns raised about the Ministry’s 2021 Form 990 resulting from inadvertent omissions which have been addressed in an amended Form 990 filed with the IRS.
After 40 years of ministry, now being falsely accused, the Bible is our guiding light. In Psalm 119:105, the psalmist writes that God’s Word provides us with His light as we navigate the journeys of our lives, even during times of darkness.