The value of wealth and possessions

• What did Jesus argue in the New Testament?

  He argued that the poor were blessed because their situation was about to be reversed with the coming of the Kingdom of God. He encouraged others to help the poor and be mindful of their wealth and how they use it
• What is the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?

  A rich man lived in luxury. A poor man led at the gates of the palace and asked for food and help but was ignored by the rich man, who proceeded to his feast. Both men died; the rich men went to hell and the poor man went to heaven. Lazarus went to heaven because he was kind and grateful, not materialistic. Whereas the rich man went to hell for being materialistic and not helping others
• What were Jesus' views?

  Applauded those who were charitable. He did not condemn wealth in itself, but argued that it was very difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven as riches can be a distraction from the more important aspects of life.
• What was the view in the early church?

  That people should share everything they had with the community, because they believed that the end of the world was soon to come. However biblical letters showed some economic differences
• What was the monastic tradition?

  Men and women gave up their personal wealth and lived in a communal or solitary existence, in poverty and simplicity
• How did the reformation change this?

  Living family life in the specular world meant using and owning money and property. Voluntary poverty no longer offered moral superiority so there was no spiritual advantage to monastic life. Charity continued to be a religious duty
• How did Victorian Britain address wealth and possessions?

  They provided more generously for their workers. Eg quakers George and Richard Cadbury built the town of Bournville for their employees and provided decent wages, a pension scheme and medical care
• Who is Benny Hinn?

  Famous faith healer. Claimed that if you have faith and give to the Church, God will give back to you
• What was the prosperity gospel?

  The more faith you have the more wealth you gain. Wealth is a gift from God. Many Churches encourage tithing
• What is the issue with the prosperity gospel?

  What if one believes that God is punishing them for not having enough money? Some may not be able to earn a large amount. There is little to no truth to the prosperity gospel. The focus should be on good acts not wealth
• What is the Bruderhof community?

  Inspired by the early church. Christian commune who share all possessions.
• What do the West London mission do?

  Provide social care such as drug recovery and help the poor. Provide housing and counselling