God and Money

[me again]

Interesting article:We're all one faith in the religion of getting rich. It seems God and money may no longer be at odds. After all, the Bible doesn't say, "Money is the root of all evil." It says, "The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." In a recent survey of people with at least $25 million to invest, "hard work, smart risk-taking and God" were credited for wealth accumulation. Wachovia's Calibre multifamily office, which conducted the survey of people with more than $25 million to invest, found that 47% called their wealth "a blessing from God." Eighty-five percent have had their wealth for 10 years or less. In a poll, Time found that 61% of Christians believe that God wants people to be prosperous. Almost one-third believes that if you give your money to God, God will bless you with more money. A new and broader way of thinking about money is sweeping all faiths: It's OK to be rich. Click here (http://biz.yahoo.com/weekend/godmoney_1.html) for the full story. :eek:

[Zaph]

First let me say there is nothing wrong with being rich. There are several examples in the Bible of very rich men whom God trusted and blessed.

This whole idea that all christians should be healthy and wealthy comes from the influence of what I call the "health and wealth" gospel. I won't name proponents of this message but I'm sure everyone here can think of a few. The bottom line of their message is....

1) if you're not wealthy or well on your way to being wealthy then you don't have "enough" faith.

2) if you're not always healthy or haven't been "healed" you don't have enough faith.

In my eyes it is one of more dangerous teachings out there. It appeals to the carnal heart and makes people question their faith based on social status and income.

[me again]

First let me say there is nothing wrong with being rich. There are several examples in the Bible of very rich men whom God trusted and blessed.

This whole idea that all christians should be healthy and wealthy comes from the influence of what I call the "health and wealth" gospel. I won't name proponents of this message but I'm sure everyone here can think of a few. The bottom line of their message is....

1) if you're not wealthy or well on your way to being wealthy then you don't have "enough" faith.

2) if you're not always healthy or haven't been "healed" you don't have enough faith.

In my eyes it is one of more dangerous teachings out there. It appeals to the carnal heart and makes people question their faith based on social status and income.The whole money thing is really a very sensitive issue. On the one hand, unbelievers see the wolves in sheeps clothing (who mascarade as Christians) as proof that Christianity is a farce because those wolves prey on others (financially).

Then there is the issue of tithing. Should we tithe to a church? If so, how much? The tithe was based on Israels civil form of government that was ruled by the priests (and later by a king). The tithe was used (at that time) to support the civil government, which was established by God. Again, it's a confusing issue.

Or should we give to others when they are in need, even as we have been blessed??? And can that be a substitute for our tithe???

Lots of big money issues here.

[Zaph]

Tithe was around even before the Mosaic law. The whole point being is that if the Lord truly has your heart He also has your money. He only blesses us so we can in turn bless others. As Jesus said.... so where your heart is so also is your treasure. It is my belief that you're not even giving back when you tithe. It is the Lord's already. You're not giving until you give offerings after you've tithed. But the real question is....

Why wouldn't you want to tithe?

[me again]

Tithe was around even before the Mosaic law. The whole point being is that if the Lord truly has your heart He also has your money. He only blesses us so we can in turn bless others. As Jesus said.... so where your heart is so also is your treasure. It is my belief that you're not even giving back when you tithe. It is the Lord's already. You're not giving until you give offerings after you've tithed. But the real question is....

Why wouldn't you want to tithe?I faithfully tithed 10% for over 20 years, but... well... to make a long story short, I no longer tithe to a church because I don't go to church -- but I still give to those in need, when I recoginize a need -- and if I have the ability to do so.