Prophets of Profit

January 18, 2011

It seems as if the western world somehow dropped this simple rule and embraced the foolish conviction that a plastic card could supply as much purchasing power as earned wages. Goods were paid with money not yet earned. In James’ words: “wealth has rotted, gold and silver corroded”. Well-dressed bankers talked like Isaiah and make him sound like a Prophet of Profit: “You who have no money, come, buy and eat!” (Is. 55). Conveniently other words from Isaiah were neglected. Like what he said to those whose “land is full of silver and gold; with no end to their treasure, no end to their chariots”. The prophet announced judgment over these “proud and lofty” nations (2:12), whose leaders “lead astray”(3:12) whose “prophets teach lies”(9:15). They honored manmade gods like many in our days worship Mammon and his Sacred Credit Card. They pray to “gods that cannot save”(45:20). Nonetheless God says: "Turn to me and be saved, for I am God, and there is no other”(45:22). He is a God of Grace!

There is a huge difference between credit loans and biblical grace: God’s grace is granted because it has been paid for. Not by the recipient but by the Giver. The prophet’s invitation to “come, buy and eat without money” is preceded by Is.53, which explains that the price had been paid by the Messiah. Christ paid for all that can be obtained without money; for justice, peace and “many mansions in the Father's house”. All it takes is: “Turn to Him and be saved”. The result will be a longing to live to His glory by applying the wisdom of His word. Wise words like; "if a man will not work, he shall not eat." (2Thess 3:10). And “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, … you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward” (Col.3:23f). No false promises, but honest and bold predictions about the “trouble you will have in this world. But take heart! I have overcome the world."(John 16:33). His victory should be our joy, His Kingdom our focus, His glory our aspiration.


May God bless you richly!

Arie Verduyn
Executive President AWF
 

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