Economic Prosperity and the Gospel || Deuteronomy 15:4-5

Text: Deuteronomy 15:4-5

In our text, there is a remarkable promise, no more poor people among the covenant people of God. This promise is fulfilled in Acts 4. Before we look at the text, we must view it through a Gospel lens. These things require born again people. These ideas can only work among a people who have Christian character and contentment. It is imperative that we begin with the Gospel, form healthy churches, and maintain a healthy membership. It is also important to note that there is a distinction made in both the Old and New Testament between the unsaved and the saved as it relates to economic prosperity. There will always be poor unbelievers around us. Theft, addiction, laziness, greed, etc. all lead to poverty. What they need is the Gospel first, not economic principles.

In Deuteronomy 14-16, seven things are commanded of God’s people:

1.      Tithing

2.      Limitations on debt

3.      Full forgiveness of debt

4.      No borrowing from unbelievers

5.      Interest free loans to believers (Generosity)

6.      Restitution

7.      Rest

 

When our hearts have been changed by the Gospel, out of love and gratitude for God’s forgiveness and generosity, we freely choose to do these things. These things are commanded to the end that there would be no needy Christian.

–        Have you been forgiven by Jesus?

–        Are you loving your neighbor?

–        What type of prosperity could we experience again if we walked in accordance with the Gospel?

 

My aim is to inspire you think differently, to dream, to imagine what could be if we all followed these principles laid down for us by God. Historically, the church has always done these things. This has resulted time and time again in tremendous prosperity. As a nation, we have enjoyed the vestiges of these things, but as our country violates these things we are seeing economic hardships increase. 

Where do we begin? The Gospel. We must remember how God has loved us, forgiven us, freed us, given us rest, and been generous to us. In turn, we must act the same way towards others.