The Christian Capitalist: The Gospel of Hard Work and Generous Giving ~ a book review

Welcome to a review of this book.
Official Summary: The Christian Capitalist explores various scriptural references that support twin pillars of Christian belief: 1) working hard to make a productive benefit from talents and materials that God has provided all people; and 2) giving generously to share those benefits with our neighbors in the name of Jesus Christ. Through a discussion of Holy Scripture, it analyzes various passages that relate to these concepts of productivity and generosity, along with two thousand years of history discussing the good works of Christians as examples. Ultimately, this book develops a philosophy that is uniquely Christian and capitalist: the Gospel of Hard Work and Generous Giving!

The idea behind this book – work hard so you can be more generous – is noble. Looking at work, wealth, and giving through the lens of the Bible is a good idea. Here is the overview of what Rich Sanders covers.

Part I: Working and Giving as Children of God
Part II: Jesus Teaches a New Way to Think About Working and Giving
Part III: Early Christian Life of Work and Giving
Part IV: The Christian Capitalist
Appendix A and B, Bibliography, Endnotes, Biblical Verse Index

There are several nuggets of solid Bible truth, good handling of the word of God, and things that can help the Christian mature in this book. I really like the approach of working hard because that is the example that God gave us in His Word. I appreciate the examples of giving that are highlighted in this book. I enjoyed the fresh look at several of the Biblical accounts utilized. Overall, there are some good things to be found.

I would not, however, recommend this book due to the hard emphasis given to the idea of work = wealth. I dealt with many of these pages over and over, trying to see what Mr. Sanders was finding in the passages he shared. I just don’t see that God promises earthly wealth if we work hard. There is also a large part of the book that focuses on Psalms and Proverbs. These are poetry books and not literal accounts of what God will do. They are allegorical and intended to shape ideas, not be promises. Utilizing them as promises is not being true to the word of God and teaches things that are not there.

If you are interested in reading, do so with your Bible so that you can look up entire passages, consider the context, and think about them yourself. Be like the Bereans in Acts 17:11 that Paul noted for their daily studying of the scriptures to make sure what was taught was correct. You can find the book on The Christian Capitalist website.

As I said, there is some good ideas here, but overall, I really struggled with this book and did not like it.

Many thanks to GoodWorks Mission, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this
review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Blessings,
Lori, At Home.

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