How do we respond to the economic situation?

We have lived in what has probably been the most affluent and influential country in all of human history.  To whom much is given, much shall be required.  Somehow, we (God’s people living in this culture) haven’t really embraced the responsibility to live generously.  We haven’t embodied a powerful alternative way of life to contrast the greedy “I need more and more” mindset of the dominant culture.  Have we damaged the Good News of the Gospel because we haven’t learned to live the generous and joyful life of the Kingdom of God?

Comments

[Sally]

Yes, we certainly have.

If anything good comes from this economic downfall it will be that Americans will be forced out of our consumerist mindset, at least to some extent. When people can't afford things anymore, they will discover that they never needed those things in the first place. That is quite a liberating discovery. Then when we become free of all our stuff we can more fully build the Kingdom of God.

[Steven]

I believe this is an absolutly teachable moment for the church to explore spiritually how we got here, and what we can do. I think this could be huge for the Church in America to re-evaluate itself financially, and look at not only how much we give, but what do we really value? Too many Chrisitans, and seculars have lived a lifestyle way above their means which has helped lead to our current state. My concern is; will God raise up pastors(especially in conservative evangelical churces) who will teach a generous lifestyle towards others, that is grounded in a robust faith in God?

[Mike]

Unfortunately, I think a bigger issue for many churches will be "How will we pay our church building mortgage?"