¹⁵ Do not love the world or the things in the world. The love of the Father is not in those who love the world; ¹⁶ for all that is in the world—the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, the pride in riches—comes not from the Father but from the world. ¹⁷ And the world and its desire are passing away, but those who do the will of God live forever.

I tend to think that consumerism is a new idea in modern America. This passage makes it clear that consumerism, or love of stuff, is nothing new. In fact, there are many times when pursuit of life with Jesus will mean less material wealth or well-being, not more. Yet there are some in the modern church who say that living as a disciple of Jesus leads to prosperity (wealth, good health, favor with people, etc). This passage speaks in opposition to the idea of faith and wealth ALWAYS going together. It’s simply not true and I believe those who teach otherwise will be held to account.

That said, I like stuff as much as the next person. I understand the temptation of “things in the world”. Lord let things never come between you and me. Amen.