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Under the Mosaic Law, the Israelites were required to “earn” the benefits or blessings of God through obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).
Some of these blessings included protection and victory in battle, prosperity and provision, health and healing, fruitfulness and increase, God’s presence, and long life.
Under the New Covenant of Grace, through Christ, however, we access these blessings by faith. We don’t need to pay for any blessing or benefit—they are freely given in Christ and received by faith.
With this understanding, we can explore the dangers of commercializing God’s blessings:
1. It Gives the Impression That We Must Earn What Is Given by Grace
When blessings are commercialized, it suggests that God’s free gifts can be bought or earned through financial contributions. This distorts the true nature of grace, which is meant to be freely given, not purchased.
2. It Undermines Our Faith
Instead of deepening their faith to trust in God’s provision, many Christians begin to believe that blessings are contingent on their ability to pay for them. This shifts the focus away from building a relationship with God toward creating a transactional mindset.
3. The Vulnerable Are Disappointed
Those who are most vulnerable often fall victim to this commercialization, believing that their financial contributions will guarantee blessings. When these expected blessings don’t materialize, they are left disillusioned and disappointed.
4. The Poor Who Cannot Give Are Marginalized
Those who are unable to contribute financially may feel excluded or less valued within their spiritual communities. This creates a divide within the church, where the poor are marginalized and feel distant from God’s blessings.
5. Reducing God to a Deity of Transactions
When we present blessings as something that can be “earned” through giving or other acts, we risk reducing God to a deity who responds solely to transactions. This perspective can distort believers’ relationship with God, leading them to approach Him with expectations of return rather than genuine worship and reverence.
6. Undermining Our Witness of God’s Love
By framing God’s blessings as rewards for specific actions, we undermine the message of God’s unconditional love. Non-believers and those we minister to may see this as hypocritical when we preach about God’s grace but act as though His blessings are for sale.
7. The Integrity of the Church Is Eroded
The commercialization of blessings damages the reputation of the church. When the church is perceived as prioritizing financial gain over spiritual guidance, it loses credibility and trust within the community and beyond.
Conclusion
The Church needs to emphasize the true concept of grace and encourage believers to develop a robust faith to access God’s blessings, with the hope of experiencing His glory in every area of their lives (Romans 5:1-2).
GOD’S servant: Peter Collins Obeng
GRACE COVENANT GLORY
