March 19, 2025

The Significance of Inherited Blessings: A Reflection on Wealth and Righteousness

The concept of inheriting worldly goods, and how believers should utilize them, is a complex topic. Examining a passage concerning the Israelites and Egyptians offers insights into this matter.

Redeeming Property From Strange Hands

The text discusses the idea of believers "redeeming, as it were, our property from strange hands." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) This alludes to the story of the Israelites borrowing from the Egyptians before the Exodus. The author isn't suggesting that the world isn't God's possession, but rather that believers receive gifts and resources "from others, in the same way as these men had them from the Egyptians who knew not God." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

The Example of the Exodus

The Israelites, in a sense, "redeemed" wealth from the Egyptians, using it to build the tabernacle of God. The author suggests that believers can similarly use resources acquired, even from non-believers or through potentially unrighteous means in their past, for righteous purposes. This "redeems" the property by dedicating it to God's service.

Practical Implications

This concept has practical applications for believers today. Consider someone who accumulated wealth before converting to Christianity. Should that wealth be discarded? The author implies no. Instead, that wealth can be used to support ministries, help the poor, and further God's kingdom. By using wealth for righteous purposes, the believer transforms it from something potentially tainted into a blessing.

Building God's Tabernacle

The text connects the "redeemed" wealth with building God's tabernacle. "By means of these same do we erect in ourselves the tabernacle of God: for God dwells in those who act uprightly." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) This signifies that using resources for good contributes to inner spiritual growth and allows God to dwell within. It goes beyond mere external acts of charity; it shapes the believer's character.

Friends of the Mammon of Unrighteousness

The author references Luke 16:9, advising believers to "Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness, that they, when ye shall be put to flight, may receive you into eternal tabernacles." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) This verse encourages the use of worldly wealth to help others, ensuring that when earthly possessions are gone, those helped will welcome the giver into eternal life. This illustrates the far-reaching impact of using wealth for good.

Conclusion

The passage emphasizes the possibility of transforming worldly wealth into spiritual capital. By using resources righteously, believers can "redeem" them, build God's tabernacle within themselves, and create lasting impact on others. This perspective encourages a thoughtful and purposeful approach to wealth, focusing on its potential for good rather than its inherent danger.