It’s the feature article in Time magazine this week.
Many popular preachers in mainstream America today preach a prosperity gospel, the lead article claims, promising health and wealth to those who follow their church’s teachings. The reporters query as to whether God intends His followers to be wealthy or not as a reward for faithfulness.
I sighed when I read the article for its premise implied that wealth is measured materially and spiritual success is defined by a worldly status quo.
Are true riches material? I don’t think so.
I find relief in knowing Jesus Christ did not focus on worldly gain and social stature in his ministry. He focused on spiritual growth and commitment. True wealth to Jesus was heavenly, not earthly. It didn’t make any difference to him how much money someone possessed if their heart was in the right place. He loved the rich and the poor.
Perhaps a better question to ask would be, “Do you realize how rich you already are?”
God made us all rich from the beginning—rich with eternal life. Materialism cannot give us anything better.
This entry was just what I needed. I had been invited to several people’s homes recently and was starting to get very depressed when looking at my own. Then I heard someone say that being wealthy and to be able to have beautiful things was a “demonstration” and “proof of God’s care”. So that left me even more depressed, that God didn’t see me as worthy of having thoes nice things. But as you said, Jesus never took thought of those things, and God certainly loved him, though not endowing him with material riches. Though Christian Science is not main stream, the prevalent thought seems to be that material prosperity is a gift from God and a reward for spiritual-minded-ness. I’m glad not everyone feels that way.
Evan I tried to post a comment earlier but my computer skills need some work so I will try again. I read your article and I also read the article in Time magazine. Isn’t it true that Jesus himself said in the parable about the three people given talents, the first and second used their talents and their talents were multiplied while the third one buried his talent and Jesus ended by saying to dig up that talent and give it to the one who had just had his talents multiplied? And didn’t he also say that you should place your lamp on a stand for all to see the brightness and to give glory to God?
John Stapleton
John,
Yes, Jesus taught we are to use our talents and not let them lie wasting away. The word “talent” though refers to much more than money. It’s a reference to the skills, abilities and wisdom we’ve been endowed with. We are to use our gifts from God wisely and abundantly. Loving our neighbor unselfishly, and without being asked, is putting the talent of unselfish love into practice. Nursing someone in the sickroom is putting the talent of care and comfort into practice. Using financial assets wisely and for the good of humanity is putting the talent of economy into efficient use. There are many different forms “talents” take in the lives of individuals. Some forms result in monetary gain, many do not, but are equally, if not more, worthy. The most important consideration is not how much money we earn but how much love we express. Love of God, not of money should be the primary motivator!
I hope that helps.