Thursday, September 14, 2006
Christian materialism
It's one thing to have an abstract or theological discussion concerning the difference between the Christian religion and the way of Jesus. But, when obvious deviations of our faith are expressed we should all stand up, take notice, and refute them.
The latest issue of Time magazine (September 18, 2006) features a cover story entitled, "Does God Want Yout to be Rich?" It's an inside look at the prosperity gospel movement that is increasing among American Christians. According to a Time poll, 17 percent of Christians are part of this movment, and 61 percent believe that God wants people to be prosperous. (Although that last statement could be challenged for being somewhat ambiguous).True, not all Christians buy into this materialism and self-absorption, but the fact that one-in-six do is alarming enough. And, it provides more negative fodder for those who want to discredit Christianity and everything associated with it.
If we are serious about following the radical faith of Jesus, we cannot simply overlook this growing interest in such a destructive aberration. It's another example of what Christianity as a religion can led to.
