I’m talking about money. Money money money… and the Christian soul. Of course the relationship between religion and material wealth isn’t one that only Christians debate, but the “prosperity gospel” has gained lots of converts over the past several years. And with the recent financial crisis, its basis and wisdom has gained new critics. Of course, folks from both sides — those who think that God wants you to have lots of stuff and more; and those who maintain that God promises abundant life precisely in the ABSENCE of such material riches — find justification in the Bible. I took a look at the most influential texts for a chapter on controversial issues in my forthcoming Bible Babel. Lately, Christians have also sought straightforward financial advice from their authoritative text. For a few fine discussions on the topic, check out Hanna Rosin’s Atlantic Monthly piece, this recent article by Jay Lindsay that circulated through the Associated Press, and this Christmas essay for CNN by John Blake. What do you think, and why do you think people read so differently? Is there finally any consistency or possibility for agreement at the heart of the issue? What IS the heart of the issue?
