The idol of the prosperity gospel is a heretical counterfeit (Exodus 20; Deuteronomy 5). It denies our calling to suffer. That does not mean that God does not give health or wealth. However, this false gospel perpetuates the idea that true believers ought not suffer, or that poverty and sickness are results of our personal sins, when the exact opposite is often true. This bogus gospel which claims to be spirit filled, is in reality idolatrous and materialistic. Part of the Christian life is willingness to suffer with Christ (Romans 8:17), to follow his steps in sacrificing our lives for others (1 Peter 2:21). Jesus did not sin, yet suffered for us, rising again on the third day and promising power for us from on high (Luke 24:36-49). Simply reading what Jesus taught helps avoid this deception.
Showing posts with label Romans 08. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Romans 08. Show all posts
The Idol of the Prosperity Gospel
The idol of the prosperity gospel is a heretical counterfeit (Exodus 20; Deuteronomy 5). It denies our calling to suffer. That does not mean that God does not give health or wealth. However, this false gospel perpetuates the idea that true believers ought not suffer, or that poverty and sickness are results of our personal sins, when the exact opposite is often true. This bogus gospel which claims to be spirit filled, is in reality idolatrous and materialistic. Part of the Christian life is willingness to suffer with Christ (Romans 8:17), to follow his steps in sacrificing our lives for others (1 Peter 2:21). Jesus did not sin, yet suffered for us, rising again on the third day and promising power for us from on high (Luke 24:36-49). Simply reading what Jesus taught helps avoid this deception.
God is a Gambler
A definition of gambling is to bet on an uncertain outcome, to take a chance. A good gamble has favorable odds. When I plant corn, I plant 3 seeds at a time to increase the chances of success. I plant in hope. The whole of life is a gamble. Playing the lottery or a slot machine is a poor gamble because the odds are against us. However, the pay-off could be huge, so some occasionally decide to buy a lottery ticket, in hope. God too has gambled -- big time. He has gambled on us. In Romans 8:20, we find that he subjected creation to futility in hope. What are the odds? I suppose that depends on our point of view. Are they poor odds because "narrow is the way" or favorable chances because Jesus said I "will draw all men to myself?" Let us not gamble on our eternity.
A Generation Willing to Suffer
Our forefathers were willing to suffer. Many suffered through wars or financial hardships. Today, from the boardroom to the street, we don't seem to be willing to suffer. We are impatient and sell our children and grandchildren into debtor's slavery so that we can have it all now. We are angry at the credit card company or the store sales person when we can't have what we want. We push and shove others out of the way on the freeway and during retail sales. What happened to that patient generation that willingly endured suffering? In Romans 8:17 the writer of a letter to ancient Rome reminded them that we are heirs, heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Are we willing to be a generation ready to suffer for the good of others?
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