I would never defend the lavish spending of non-profits. However, non-profits have to file tax returns and justify their status.
Churches don’t have that requirement so that their spending is completely under the radar. (someone please correct me if I’m wrong).
Churches also do not pay property taxes. I’m not sure if other types of non-profits have to pay property taxes. Do churches have to pay sales/use tax? I know that when I buy something at the Salvation Army thrift store, the purchase is not taxable.
I hope that someone who has knowledge of tax laws related to churches and non-profit would elucidate us.
