The Dissonance Between Modern Christian Practices and the Teachings of Jesus on Wealth and Discipleship

Abstract

This article explores the apparent contradiction between the teachings of Jesus Christ on wealth, discipleship, and worldly comforts, and the contemporary practices and values of many Christians. Despite the clear directives in the New Testament, a significant number of modern Christians appear to prioritize wealth, power, and societal esteem. This paper examines the theological implications, societal influences, and potential reasons for this divergence from biblical teachings, with a focus on the scriptural basis found in Matthew 8:20 and Luke 9:58.

Introduction

The teachings of Jesus Christ emphasize a life of simplicity, sacrifice, and prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions. In Matthew 8:20 and Luke 9:58, Jesus explicitly states, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (New International Version). This teaching, along with others, underscores the transient and sacrificial nature of true discipleship. However, a significant number of contemporary Christians appear to embrace wealth, power, and social prestige, often in stark contrast to these teachings. This article aims to explore this phenomenon and its implications.

Biblical Teachings on Wealth and Discipleship

Jesus’ teachings on wealth and discipleship are clear and uncompromising. In addition to Matthew 8:20 and Luke 9:58, other passages reinforce this message:

1. Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (New International Version).
2. Matthew 19:21-24: “Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’ When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God'” (New International Version).
3. Luke 14:33: “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples” (New International Version).

These passages collectively underscore the demand for complete devotion and the renouncement of material wealth in the pursuit of spiritual goals.

Modern Christian Practices

Despite these clear directives, modern Christian practices often diverge significantly. A study by Smith and Emerson (2020) highlights how contemporary Christians in affluent societies tend to align more closely with the values of their culture, which often prioritize wealth accumulation and social status. This phenomenon can be observed in several ways:

1. Prosperity Gospel: The rise of the Prosperity Gospel, which teaches that God rewards faith with wealth and health, directly contradicts the biblical emphasis on spiritual over material wealth (Bowler, 2013).
2. Church Wealth and Influence: Many large Christian denominations and megachurches exhibit significant wealth and influence. This display of affluence can be seen in the lavish lifestyles of some religious leaders and the substantial financial resources of their institutions (Thompson, 2019).
3. Social and Political Power: Many Christians actively seek and hold positions of power and influence in society, often justifying their actions as a means to promote Christian values. However, this pursuit of power can sometimes lead to compromises that dilute the core teachings of humility and sacrifice (Gorski, 2017).

Theological Implications

The divergence between Jesus’ teachings and modern practices raises several theological concerns:

1. Spiritual Integrity: The emphasis on wealth and power can lead to a form of Christianity that is more culturally accommodating than biblically faithful, potentially compromising the spiritual integrity of the faith (Yoder, 1972).
2. Witness and Mission: The credibility of the Christian witness is at stake when believers prioritize material wealth and social status. It can lead to accusations of hypocrisy and weaken the church’s mission to serve the poor and marginalized, as emphasized in the teachings of Jesus (Stott, 2006).
3. Discipleship and Community: True discipleship requires a community committed to living out the radical teachings of Jesus. When wealth and power are prioritized, the communal aspects of sacrifice, mutual support, and shared purpose can be undermined (Bonhoeffer, 1959).

Societal Influences

Several societal factors contribute to the divergence between Jesus’ teachings and modern Christian practices:

1. Consumer Culture: The pervasive consumer culture in many societies places a high value on wealth and material possessions. Christians, like others, are susceptible to these cultural norms, which can overshadow biblical teachings on simplicity and sacrifice (Kavanaugh, 1981).
2. Secularization and Individualism: The secularization of society and the rise of individualism promote self-reliance and personal success, which can conflict with the communal and sacrificial nature of Christian discipleship (Bellah et al., 1985).
3. Media and Celebrity Culture: The media often glorifies wealth and celebrity, including within religious circles. This can create a distorted view of what it means to be successful, even within the Christian community (Schultze, 2003).

Conclusion

The teachings of Jesus on wealth, power, and discipleship are clear and challenging. Yet, many contemporary Christians appear to prioritize material wealth, social status, and power, often in contradiction to these teachings. This dissonance raises important theological and practical concerns for the Christian community. To address this issue, there must be a renewed commitment to the radical and countercultural teachings of Jesus, emphasizing simplicity, sacrifice, and the prioritization of spiritual wealth over material possessions.

References

Bellah, R. N., Madsen, R., Sullivan, W. M., Swidler, A., & Tipton, S. M. (1985). Habits of the heart: Individualism and commitment in American life. University of California Press.

Bonhoeffer, D. (1959). The cost of discipleship. SCM Press.

Bowler, K. (2013). Blessed: A history of the American prosperity gospel. Oxford University Press.

Gorski, P. S. (2017). American covenant: A history of civil religion from the Puritans to the present. Princeton University Press.

Kavanaugh, J. F. (1981). Following Christ in a consumer society: The spirituality of cultural resistance. Orbis Books.

Schultze, Q. J. (2003). Christianity and the mass media in America: Toward a democratic accommodation. Michigan State University Press.

Smith, C., & Emerson, M. O. (2020). Divided by faith: Evangelical religion and the problem of race in America. Oxford University Press.

Stott, J. (2006). Basic Christianity. InterVarsity Press.

Thompson, P. (2019). Megachurches and America’s cities: How churches grow. Cambridge University Press.

Yoder, J. H. (1972). The politics of Jesus. Eerdmans.