Godly Materialism: Rethinking Money & Possessions

by John R. Schneider

Dramatically reopening the debate about money and possessions, John Schneider offers a thoughtful reading of the Bible, draws on sociological study of the Bible, and offers positive examples for Christians who want to use their money conscientiously.

Genres: Biblical Studies

215 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1994

About the author

John R. Schneider is professor of religion and theology at Calvin College, Grand Rapids, Michigan; he was formerly professor of religious studies at Westmont College in California. He has written widely on the topic of Christianity and wealth and is the author of the books Philip Melanchthon's Rhetorical Construal of Biblical Authority and Godly Materialism: Rethinking Money and Possessions.

Reviews

[Kellie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I disagree with the thesis, though this is not reason enough for a low rating. I find it most troublesome that the writer relies on atomization of Bible passages, with heavy reliance on passages favorable to his thesis and selective amnesia with respect to passages in direct conflict.

The book is useful example of contemporary efforts to re-interpret the Bible as an homage to Libertarianism, but beyond this it offers little of merit.