Sunday Jun 25, 2017

Worshiping Mammon - The Subversive Gospel

Subverting the Worship of Mammon

Understanding the Subversive Gospel

The teachings from Founded In Truth Fellowship, as presented by Matthew Vander Els, center on the idea of a subversive gospel, one that inherently challenges and overturns the values and standards of the world. This particular message focuses on the worship of Mammon, which is equated with the world's definition of success, and how aligning with God's kingdom requires a radical shift in our understanding and pursuit of what truly matters.

The core argument is that if we genuinely align ourselves with the message of God's kingdom, a kingdom of new creation and restoration, we cannot help but be subversive to the world as it currently exists. The world needs light, and our vocation as ambassadors and messengers of reconciliation in Yeshua (Jesus) makes us revolutionaries, rebels against the established norms. Our mission is to subvert the world around us, pushing down its standards so that the kingdom Yeshua planted can flourish.

The Gospel Versus the World

The world takes notice of the gospel because it is fundamentally contrary to the standards the world has set. While the gospel demands repentance and a conviction that God will bring His kingdom to earth through His people, the world often operates on entirely different principles. Just as in the first century, calling Yeshua "Lord" (Kyrios) and the "Son of God" was a direct challenge to the Roman Empire and the worship of Caesar, our allegiance to Christ today stands in opposition to the modern-day "Caesars" we might unknowingly serve. Many early Christians faced death for refusing to declare Caesar as their lord, proclaiming instead that Yeshua is their Lord and King.

The Influence of "Self" in the World

One key area where the world exerts its influence is in the concept of "self". The world tells us everything revolves around us, leading to a self-centered faith where salvation and fellowship become primarily about personal benefit. However, entering God's kingdom means learning that it is not about us but about Him, replicating His kingdom, subverting the world, and establishing the Lord's kingship.

Redefining Success

This week's message specifically addresses the worship of Mammon, using the term "success" as a central point of discussion. The world teaches us to be successful, defining happiness through wealth, big houses, big cars, and stable jobs. However, this definition of success has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years.

Despite the passage of time, the core of the world's definition of success persists. Today, many Americans equate success with influence, wealth, and social class. The societal pressure to do well in school, get a degree, and secure a "good job" – which is often defined by high monetary compensation rather than fulfillment – reflects this ingrained pursuit.

Subverting the Caesar of Success

To subvert this worldly "Caesar of success," we must follow the example of Christ. This seemingly innocent King, mocked and facing punishment meant for lawbreakers, did not reign through business deals or material wealth but by being lifted up on the Roman cross, suffering for the sins of His people. This starkly contrasts with the world's standards of power and authority.

Three Key Ways to Become Subversive

Recognize that success is found in faithfulness to God. Our primary job as ambassadors of the kingdom is measured by our faithfulness and servitude to God.
Embrace suffering. This is a path we often avoid, but it was Yeshua's example before Pilate and throughout His life. His kingdom is not of this world.
Pursue unity and love. This was central to Yeshua's example.

Practical Applications for Everyday Life

Regularly examine your definition of success. Does it align with worldly standards or God's kingdom principles?
Prioritize faithfulness to God in all areas of life over the pursuit of wealth or status.
Be generous with your finances, time, and energy. Look for opportunities to give and serve others, even when it's inconvenient or sacrificial.
Embrace opportunities to suffer for the sake of the gospel, recognizing it as a way to emulate Christ and proclaim His love.
Actively pursue unity and love within your community and with others.
Trust in God's provision rather than being driven by anxiety about material needs.
Redefine your goals and desires in light of God's kingdom.
Be mindful of the influence of the "almighty dollar" and resist the temptation to make money an idol.
Teach your children the principles of biblical generosity and a kingdom-focused perspective on success.
Regularly evaluate your spending habits to ensure they reflect a recognition that all resources come from God.

For more Bible Teachings, click the link.

References

Philippians
Acts
Matthew 6, 6:24, 6:25-34
1 Corinthians 2, 3, 11
Colossians 3:5
1 Timothy 6:10
Proverbs 3:8-9
Luke 12, 12:13
Deuteronomy 6, 11
Leviticus 23