Download free study guide here
Talking about money in a personal way remains more of a taboo than sex or politics. This seems odd within a Christian context, since Jesus addressed topics of money, poverty, and wealth more than any other concerns. For many, money becomes an idol; we see it in our own culture as we pursue economic growth no matter the cost to the overall well-being of God’s creation. When that happens, “enough” is always more than we have right now, and scarcity becomes the lens through which we see the world.
On a personal level, this book opens up issues of scarcity and abundance, idolatry and freedom; on a societal level, it invites exploration of greater equity and sustainability. On both levels, it empowers individuals and groups to apply their faith’s values in practical ways while taking pastoral and prophetic stances. The author suggests we need to experience the nurturing companionship of a wise, compassionate pastor or spiritual guide in our relationship to money, while also needing to experience the power, strength, anger, and call to repentance of an Old Testament prophet.
People want to connect their values with everyday concerns, while discovering ways to make a positive difference. This book helps them do both.
Includes a comprehensive study guide within the book for groups and individuals.
Contributors include: Henri Nouwen, Dave Barry, Walter Brueggemann, David Boyle, Lynne Twist, Lewis Hyde, William Stringfellow,John Haughey, Ched Myers, Bill McKibben, Sallie McFague, William Greider, Leonardo Boff, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, Maria Harris, Rich Lang, Wayne Muller, Sharon Parks, Rodney Clapp, Ted Nace, Lester Brown, Pete Barnes,Andy Loving, Edgar Cahn, Sarah Tarver-Wahlquist, Susan Wilkes, Jim Klobuchar
“The last subject in the world I would expect to find interesting is economics—money—but I found Michael Schut’s book written with such wit, clarity, and insight that it both enriched my understanding and delighted my spirit.”
—Frederick Buechner, author of Secrets in the Dark: A Life in Sermons and The Yellow Leaves: A Miscellany
“Michael Schut combines his own thinking with wonderful essays from writers as different as humorist Dave Barry and theologian William Stringfellow. This book deserves a place in every church discussion series and a wide reading by all Americans.” —John de Graaf, co-author of Affluenza: The All-Consuming Epidemic and editor of Take Back Your Time
“The essays in this book are incredible, but what is really exciting is the study circle guide, for it is the small group that brings about social change.” —Cecile Andrews, author of Slow Is Beautiful and Circle of Simplicity
"Money and Faith is one tool we can use to create that world, as long as the Spirit moves us." — The Covenant Companion
