I came across a story today on ABC News.com entitled, “Gospel of Wealth’ Facing Scrutiny” which focuses not only on the recent U.S. Senate probe headed by Senator Charles Grassley of Iowa into a select group of televangelists’ financial practices, but what has been coined the “gospel of wealth” as well. Of particular interest to me is the story of a Cindy Fleenor who bought into the gospel of wealth message only to be disappointed.
Romans Chapter 8 if probably one of my favorite chapters in the entire Bible. There is so much depth in the thirty-nine verses contained within. It’s where we get scriptures like, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (8:1),” “all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (8:28),” and “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? (8:35).”
How can there be a fallacy when one believes in God? After all, John 3:16 tells us that, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” There is that word, “believe,” but what does it really mean? Is that really all one has to do is to believe that Jesus Christ exists? Is that all God intends for us – to believe that His Son came and died for us and then to continue on our merry way, living our own lives? Even the devils believe in the Son of God and they tremble (James 2:19).
Churches around the world are joining an emerging international movement to restore the “scandal” of Christmas by observing the holiday more authentically. The movement called “The Advent Conspiracy” calls on churches and their members to give simpler but more thoughtful gifts that foster relationships. Christians are then encouraged to use the money they would have spent on expensive gifts to help the needy around the world.
One of the most impactful books I have ever read is Paul E. Billheimer’s “Destined For The Throne.” This most excellent work reminds us of who we really are – the Bride of Christ Himself, and that we have no higher calling than the call to pray.
