Philip A. Eubanks: Ambivalence

First, compartmentalization of the material from the spiritual, which is a common concept in Western thought, keeps money and faith in two separate, unrelated spheres in the minds of many. Therefore, many Christians are comfortable making financial decisions while never considering the implications of their faith.

Second, the United States’ historic emphases on individualism, private property, and maximizing personal benefit can create an inherent resistance to any outside influence, even religious faith, in making financial and purchasing decisions.

Third, money is rarely addressed in many churches because clergy feel unprepared and are reluctant to preach on and discuss money. As a result, many Christians only have a vague understanding of biblical teaching on money and do not clearly understand how their use of money should relate to their religious beliefs and commitments.

Fourth, the taboo of discussing money in American society limits the learning, influence, and encouragement that would come from mature Christians if it were discussed more openly.

Finally, one of the foremost counter-influences to Christian teaching on money is consumerism, which exerts an almost overwhelming influence on financial behavior in the United States."

Philip A. Eubanks in "Live the Vision Church Culture: An Ethnographic Case Study and Theological Inquiry." PhD diss., Oxford Centre for Mission Studies (2024) 3.

This week we explore the fresh doctoral research of a friend of mine, Philip A. Eubanks. Today marks the first of seven posts. Click here to download his dissertation.

His research opens by looking at the multifaceted problem.

The majority of Christians exhibit ambivalence when it comes to money. As a result, they handle money similar to people with no faith at all.

Some compartmentalize the material from the spiritual. Others exhibit American individualism which focuses on personal benefit over religious beliefs.

Few report learning much about money in the church setting. Others limit financial discussions because they are taboo in larger society. And many succumb to consumerism.

We start the week assessing the problem. Where do you fit in this picture?

Father in heaven, show me this week where there may be ambivalence in my life or where my handling of money reflects slavery to mammon. Set me free this week I pray in Jesus name. Amen.