333 Words
333 WORDS….
Everybody does it because everybody does it.
Regarding many traditional practices, there are no Scriptural grounds for evangelicals (etcetera) to do what they do. They do what they do because everybody does it. That’s why they call the man ‘Pastor’. That’s why they tithe. That’s why they sign up for membership. And that’s why….
That’s why they market…. the subject of this 333.
Like the plumber and carpenter selling their goods and services, pulpit-people sell their spiritual goods and spiritual services. That Paul and Peter and John never marketed is no deterrent. That Jesus instructed, “Freely you have received, freely give” matters little.
The following advertisement is imaginary and slightly exaggerative, but indicative….
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SALE!!!
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PLUS….
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PLUS….
If you ORDER TODAY, we will send the accompanying “Ten Shortcuts to Spiritual Maturity” study manual, a $19.99 value for only $9.99! That’s HALF PRICE!!
PLUS….
First 100 people ordering this special combination offer will receive a special AUTOGRAPHED COPY of the manual!
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(Please don’t forget to add $6.99 S&H.)
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Selling spiritual wares is so acceptable because it is so done. Everybody does it because everybody does it. Because everybody does it, Biblical precedent is unnecessary. ‘The way it is’ trumps Scripture…. again.
Lord(?) Jesus: “Freely you have received, freely give.”
Charging for spiritual goods and services is compromise. Compromise compromises the connection between Vine and branch. Which results in dwindling fruit…. perhaps not immediately…. but certainly.
(BTW, isn’t being salaried another means of charging for spiritual ministration? Just asking.)