Pew Research along with other authorities say Christianity is on the decline in the west. Among the reasons are the moral failure by leaders and the pursuit of wealth at any cost. The Bible warns us about the lust of the flesh, the lust of possessions, and the lust for power. All these can become idols that bring down both individuals and a society. We read in Luke Chapter 18 that a rich young ruler asked Jesus “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus cited some of the Ten Commandments. He boasted, “I’ve obeyed all these.” Jesus then told him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man walked away sad, unwilling to trust and obey Christ. Many in our society—even some Christians– have begun to justify immorality and elevate economic progress above fidelity to the truth. Jesus shows us that quoting the Bible does not translate into obeying it. Since the young man was not willing to leave his money to follow Jesus, neither had he fully obeyed God’s other commands. True followers of Jesus Christ reject worldly standards of right. They pursue faith and strive to do God’s will.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
