“God is not glorified when we keep for ourselves (no matter how thankfully) what we ought to be using to alleviate the misery of unevangelized, uneducated, unmedicated, and unfed millions. The evidence that many professing Christians have been deceived by this doctrine is how little they give and how much they own. God has prospered them. And by an almost irresistible law of consumer culture (baptized by a doctrine of health, wealth, and prosperity) they have bought bigger (and more) houses, newer (and more) cars, fancier (and more) clothes, better (and more) meat, and all manner of trinkets and gadgets and containers and devices and equipment to make life more fun. They will object: Does not the Old Testament promise that God will prosper his people? Indeed! God increases our yield, so that by giving we can prove our yield is not our god. God does not prosper a man's business so that he can move from a Ford to a Cadillac. God prospers a business so that 17,000 unreached people can be reached with the gospel. He prospers the business so that 12 percent of the world's population can move a step back from the precipice of starvation.”
Example of Usage
In his powerful message, John Piper challenges Christians to re-examine their priorities and consider how they are using the resources that God has blessed them with. He emphasizes the importance of giving generously to those in need, rather than simply accumulating wealth for personal gain. Piper argues that true prosperity is not measured by material possessions, but by the impact we can have on the lives of others.
Quote Analysis
In this quote by John Piper, the author criticizes the belief that God prospers individuals solely for their own personal gain. He argues that wealth should be used to alleviate the suffering of those less fortunate, rather than simply being accumulated for personal pleasure. Piper suggests that prosperity should be viewed as a means to serve others and advance the kingdom of God, rather than as a sign of personal success or entitlement. He emphasizes the importance of generosity and selflessness in the Christian faith.
Modern Relevance of John Piper's Quote
In today's consumer-driven society, John Piper's words serve as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with prosperity. The emphasis on material possessions and personal gain often overshadows the importance of helping those in need. Piper's message challenges Christians to use their resources to alleviate the suffering of others and spread the message of hope. Let us reflect on these words and consider how we can make a positive impact in a world filled with inequality and poverty.
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on the quotes from John Piper, consider the following questions:
- In what ways do you see yourself prioritizing material possessions over helping others in need?
- How does the concept of God prospering us to benefit others challenge your current mindset on wealth and possessions?
- How can you use your resources and blessings to make a positive impact on those who are suffering or in need?
- How does your view on wealth and prosperity align with your understanding of Christian values and principles?
- What steps can you take to shift your focus from accumulating possessions for personal gain to using your resources for the greater good?
Similar quotes
“Does not the Old Testament promise that God will prosper His people? Indeed! God increases our yield so that by giving we can prove that our yield is not our god. God does not prosper a man’s business so he can move from a Ford to a Cadillac. God prospers a business so that thousands of unreached peoples can be reached with the gospel.”
“We can stand affliction better than we can prosperity, for in prosperity we forget God.”
“It is the will of God that the man who develops his love relationship with the Lord prospers and is in health even as his soul prospers (III John 2). Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ loves us and wants us to repent and turn to Him in every area of our lives. When we do, we will experience the forgiveness, grace, mercy, power, peace, and joy that only He can give!”
“We cannot infer from prosperity that God is pleased with us, nor can we infer from adversity that he is displeased with us.”
“As we understand it, everything is in the Bible for one reason – to teach us a lesson. Thus, in the beginning of the Bible, we see how God budgets His time for labor, and He saves the seventh day for rest, or retirement. The concept of budgeting was created by God to give us a life of prosperity in the world He created for us, so we should learn to budget as a way to emulate God in our financial life.”