1 Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor
to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God,
who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. (NIV)
Interesting how this verse actually reflects the inverse of what really appears to be the status quo in the World. We have a lot of arrogant rich people living their lives in abundance but with no real understanding of its implications. Eventually there will come a time when the money will not be enough, the material items will not satisfy and your mind will be unsettled and wary about what actually matters in this world.
There are those pastors who preach “prosperity gospel” about how God does not want his people to be poor or to suffer. However, suffering is a part of life, and is guaranteed to happen. As Christians, it is not something we can avoid. I don’t understand why Pastors stand in the pulpit and tell people that God will make them “prosperous” or “wealthy”. I don’t think material gain is what God was speaking of at all, but that seems to be the context to which they apply the scriptures.
Here is one of many verses about suffering:
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” —1 Peter 4:12-14, 16
Do not be fooled by promises of riches that are dependent upon your actions and how much money you give to the church. Leading a “good life” does not guarantee a place in Heaven, only belief in the Savior will set us free. The Bible does say that what is given will be given back to us, but don’t take it out of context. This giving is to be from the heart, not for the hopes of gain in any way. Whoever does so is asking to be condemned.
Be careful folks. Use wisdom to discern your path for yourselves and do not be lead astray by false teachings.
God Bless.
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor
to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God,
who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. (NIV)
Interesting how this verse actually reflects the inverse of what really appears to be the status quo in the World. We have a lot of arrogant rich people living their lives in abundance but with no real understanding of its implications. Eventually there will come a time when the money will not be enough, the material items will not satisfy and your mind will be unsettled and wary about what actually matters in this world.
There are those pastors who preach “prosperity gospel” about how God does not want his people to be poor or to suffer. However, suffering is a part of life, and is guaranteed to happen. As Christians, it is not something we can avoid. I don’t understand why Pastors stand in the pulpit and tell people that God will make them “prosperous” or “wealthy”. I don’t think material gain is what God was speaking of at all, but that seems to be the context to which they apply the scriptures.
Here is one of many verses about suffering:
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.” —1 Peter 4:12-14, 16
Do not be fooled by promises of riches that are dependent upon your actions and how much money you give to the church. Leading a “good life” does not guarantee a place in Heaven, only belief in the Savior will set us free. The Bible does say that what is given will be given back to us, but don’t take it out of context. This giving is to be from the heart, not for the hopes of gain in any way. Whoever does so is asking to be condemned.
Be careful folks. Use wisdom to discern your path for yourselves and do not be lead astray by false teachings.
God Bless.