A Second Hope Denied: Worldly Security

It is vain to trust the strength of our present situation in the world. Therefore let none trust in the strength or present situation of his dwelling. Neither should we be too much in love with the possessions of this present life. 1 Cor. 7:31 - we use this world without abusing it. But lest we think that worldly goods are somehow sinful in themselves, we must recognize that Scripture does not condemn wealth.

First, we do not believe the 'word of faith' doctrine that turns prayer into a magical incantation and Jesus into a Genie; second, we do not believe wealth in itself wicked; finally, man was created to have dominion over the creation, incl. its gold. But when we set our hearts upon the gold apart from God's command, it has taken dominion over us.

Therefore, 3 of 10 commandments (4,8,10) deal directly with wealth, how to get it and how to treat it. The Sabbath law produces rest in the Lord for instruction, not idleness. The result of covenant faithfulness in working and resting according to God's commandments is covenant blessing. Though our riches may not be in money, yet 'the blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich....' Prov. 10:22. The Sabbath is not the do-nothing idleness of the self-absorbed. For the Edomite and Covenant breaker, however, the only promise is of destruction.