'Psychology 101' [Conformity]

In today's world, there is a strong tendency for the believer to be conformed to this world. The bible clearly states that the believer should not be conformed to this world (Romans 12:2). The scripture states that we as believers should setour minds on things that are above and not things that are of this world (Colossians 3:2)

However, what we have today is not just the propagation of the much talked about 'prosperity gospel' but proclamation of an 'economic Jesus'. A Jesus that will save you from poverty to prosperity. Though there is nothing wrong with being economically and financially blessed by God as He may add (Matthew 6:33), the focus, motivation and desire of the gospel of the kingdom of God, should be about how Jesus Christ as saviour and Lord, is to deliver us from this perishing world and the devastation of the apocalyptic travails that are to come (and may have already come).

In Psychology, there is a concept called 'conformity'. It usually involves 'test subjects' that are seated in a certain arrangement. All the participants, except one, are told to intentionally say the wrong answer. The single one test subject among the participants is usually seated close to the end to allow him/her to hear the answers of the previous ones. Then when the turn of the test subject comes, it becomes a case of either 'calling it as it is' or 'calling it as the previous majority did'.

Bringing the above analogy home, today, the vast majority of believers perceive the gospel of Jesus Christ as if we're still in the old testament saying things like:

"If you are saved you should be rich.";

"If you are suffering, you are a sinner.";

"Abraham's blessings are mine."

Yes, Abraham's blessings are ours, but in the new testament, it's not entirely about economic wellbeing and financial prosperity. In reality, Jesus said it's about:* taking up our cross;

* suffering for the advancement of the kingdomof God;

* setting our minds, hearts and desires for things above.

Unfortunately, today it's about:

* "How much do you have in your bank account?"

* "What car do you drive?"

* "Where do you live?"

* "Are you still a tenant?"

Wake up, people! Don't just read the new testament. Get the 'spirit' of the new testament.