Did Jesus Promise Material Prosperity?

Good morning, beloved brothers and sisters in Christ.

Today, my message is going to delve into a topic that has generated considerable discussion and sometimes confusion within the Christian community: the concept of prosperity. Specifically, let us explore whether Jesus promised His followers material prosperity.

It is essential for us to understand what the Bible truly teaches on this matter so that we can align our expectations and our lives with God's Word.

Main Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." — Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)

1. Understanding Biblical Prosperity

First, let's define what we mean by "prosperity." In today's culture, prosperity often refers to material wealth, success, and financial abundance. However, the Bible presents a broader and more profound understanding of prosperity.

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Here, "prosper" does not merely mean financial gain but encompasses overall well-being, including spiritual, emotional, and physical health.

Illustration: The Prosperous Soul

Consider the prosperous soul. A person who has a prosperous soul is rich in faith, love, joy, peace, and other fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This kind of prosperity is far more valuable than material wealth because it leads to eternal life and a deeper relationship with God.

Application:

Seek True Prosperity: Aim to cultivate a prosperous soul rather than just accumulating material wealth. Focus on growing in your relationship with God and developing Christ-like character.

Value Spiritual Wealth: Recognize that spiritual wealth is far more enduring and significant than material wealth.

2. Jesus' Teachings on Wealth and Possessions

When we examine Jesus' teachings, we find that He often warned against the dangers of wealth and possessions. Jesus emphasized the importance of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material wealth.

Scripture: Matthew 19:23-24

In Matthew 19:23-24 (NIV), Jesus says to His disciples, "Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." Jesus cautioned that wealth can become a significant obstacle to entering the kingdom of God if it becomes an idol or a source of pride.

Illustration: The Rich Young Ruler

The story of the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27) illustrates this point. The young man wanted to follow Jesus but was unwilling to give up his great wealth. His attachment to material possessions prevented him from fully committing to Christ. Jesus' response highlights the need to prioritize our relationship with God over our earthly possessions.

Application:

Guard Against Idolatry: Ensure that your wealth and possessions do not become idols. Keep your focus on God and His kingdom.

Prioritize Generosity: Use your resources to bless others and further God's work. Be generous and willing to share with those in need.

3. The Promise of Provision, Not Wealth

While Jesus did not promise material wealth, He did promise to provide for our needs. This distinction is important because it shifts our focus from seeking wealth to trusting God for our daily provisions.

Scripture: Matthew 6:31-33

In Matthew 6:31-33 (NIV), Jesus assures us, "So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Jesus calls us to seek God's kingdom and righteousness first, promising that our needs will be met as we do so.

Illustration: The Birds and the Lilies

Jesus uses the example of the birds of the air and the lilies of the field (Matthew 6:25-30) to illustrate God's provision. Just as God cares for the birds and the lilies, He will surely care for us. This assurance frees us from the anxiety of chasing after material wealth and allows us to trust in God's faithful provision.

Application:

Trust in God’s Provision: Rely on God to meet your needs rather than striving for wealth. Have faith that He will provide for you as you seek His kingdom.

Live Simply: Embrace a lifestyle of simplicity and contentment, focusing on what truly matters—your relationship with God and others.

4. The Dangers of the Prosperity Gospel

Imagine a preacher standing in a grand, packed auditorium, declaring with fervor that God's ultimate desire is for His followers to be wealthy and free from all financial struggles. He confidently asserts that if you sow a "seed" (usually in the form of a monetary donation), God will multiply it back to you a hundredfold. Many in the audience, desperate for financial breakthrough, eagerly give what they have, expecting miraculous returns.