Money, Possessions, and Eternity

by Alcorn, Randy

• ISBN13: 9780842353601
• ISBN10: 0842353607
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-02-01
• Publisher: TYNDALE HOUSE PUBLISHERS

Summary

What does the Bible really say about money? This completely revised and updated version of the classic best-seller provides a Christian perspective about money and material possessions based on the author's painstaking study of the Bible. Randy Alcorn uses the Scriptures to approach this often touchy subject head-on. Thought-provoking arguments challenge readers to rethink their attitudes and use their God-given resources in ways that will have an eternal impact. Alcorn deals straightforwardly with issues of materialism, stewardship, prosperity theology, debt, and more. An excellent choice for group study as well as individual financial guidance. Includes a study guide and appendix with additional resources.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	ix
Preface to the Revised and Updated Edition	xi
Introduction	xv
Part One: The Challenge of Money and Possessions
Money: Why Is It So Important to God?	3	(12)
The Weakness of Asceticism	15	(14)
The Nature of Materialism	29	(12)
The Dangers of Materialism	41	(18)
Materialism in the Church	59	(16)
Prosperity Theology: The Gospel of Wealth	75	(18)
Part Two: Seeing Money and Possessions in Eternity's Light
Two Treasuries, Two Perspectives, Two Masters	93	(14)
The Steward's Eternal Destiny	107	(16)
The Steward's Eternal Rewards	123	(16)
The Steward and the Master	139	(20)
The Pilgrim Mentality	159	(14)
Part Three: Giving and Sharing Our Money and Possessions
Tithing: The Training Wheels of Giving	173	(22)
Giving: Reciprocating God's Grace	195	(28)
Helping the Poor and Reaching the Lost	223	(20)
Ministry Finances and Fund-Raising: Special Ethical Concerns	243	(38)
Part Four: Handling Our Money and Possessions
Making Money, Owning Possessions, and Choosing a Lifestyle	281	(24)
Debt: Borrowing and Lending	305	(22)
Saving, Retiring, and Insuring	327	(26)
Gambling, Investing, and Leaving Money	353	(28)
Battling Materialism in the Christian Family	381	(12)
Teaching Children about Money and Possessions	393	(14)
Conclusion: Where Do We Go From Here?	407	(42)
Appendixes
A. Financial Integrity and Accountability in Churches and Ministries	425	(4)
B. The Use of Ministry Funds for Buildings	429	(4)
C. Lending Money, Charging Interest, and Co-signing a Loan	433	(4)
D. Practical Guidelines to Control Spending	437	(6)
E. Should Giving Always Be Kept Secret?	443	(6)
Study Guide	449	(28)
Notes	477	(10)
Scripture Index	487	(2)
Subject Index	489	(2)
About the Author	491