Well, Jesus did not teach that we had to sell everything to the poor. He told the rich guy particularly to do this. And while the apostles sold their possession as part of their commission, it is clear others of Jesus' follwers were not required to leave career and goods and abandon everything. But many of Christ's followers were undoubtedly quite wealthy (i.e. Philemon), certainly some at Rome were, and yet none of the apostles took issue with the fact. Paul himself claimed to know, while a Christian, great plenty and great poverty - being content at all times.
You've just corrupted the text, as is typical of leftist "preachers" who abuse the text for evil purposes.
Christians are allowed great wealth. But they ought not hold it pridefully, as if it came to them by their own strength. For the Christian, everything is God's. We give freely, generously and let the chips fall as they will. Should the Lord require it all, then that is just fine (God is my witness - it really is just fine). I relish the opportunity to give - to see my frail life being used to help another. But should the Lord give wealth, then that is fine too. I enjoy wealth and make no bones about it. I have lots of toys and garbage that is fun to have. But I do not love this stuff. It is all perishing.
I do love work. And I find that as I work, wealth comes. As I give of my work, wealth continually multiplies. So I sincerely do not worry about being poor or anything of the sort. I figure, if God allows me to starve, then it is just my time to go. Yes - even my very own life is up for grabs, should God require it for some purpose.
But I work vigorously to protect wealth, including my life, from thick-headed leftists and heathen savages, who are most eager to use it for evil. That is my duty. |
