Discussion: Economic Slavery

What is economic slavery?

How does economic slavery relate to almost all forms of slavery?

Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin

John 8:34

Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin

Romans 6:6

Recently, I heard the phrase “NE Center for the Abolition of Poverty” when praying about the “Storehouse” concept for the New England region.

I find it interesting that it ties the word “Abolition” and “Poverty” (Poverty is a consequence of economic slavery).

God actually tells us that the curse of poverty come on us if we serve idols:

A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty will come upon him

Proverbs 28:22

Am I a Slave (click link)?

Mammon is a modern day idol. When we obey its voice, either in fear of money for lack of future provision, or in greed for money to take care of ourselves and our family, it is sin towards God. Yet, many Americans, and even many Christians have become slaves to Mammon – as it is a strong part of our culture – whether realizing it or not.

This is why Jesus taught so strongly against Mammon (desire of money):

No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money

Matthew 6:24

I’m not sure I can imagine stronger words than despising the voice of money? Do we truly despise the influence of money in our lives?

This is serious stuff. Jesus is seemingly saying here no dabbling around with maybe that the influences of money are ok? Maybe a little bit of caring for money is alright. No. This is a black and white issue with Jesus. Why? Because money can be a very corrupting influence if we are not vigilantly despising its influences.

If you have time, listen to this outstanding teaching by Raymond Mooi from Malaysia (word about money idolatry for USA):

Mammon and the Midianites Part 1

Mammon and the Midianites Part 2

How does the Fair Isaac Corporation or FICO score system work in practice, and how does it keep us enslaved to debt?

So if my behavior contradicts my desires to do good, I must conclude that it’s not my true identity doing it, but the unwelcome intruder of sin hindering me from being who I really am.”

Romans 7:20