Title: Back to Eden: A Biblical Perspective on Wealth and
Poverty
By: Dr. Simon Thiessen
ISBN#978-1-4602-8484-1 (Paperback)
A CBM Book Review
10.0 out of 10.0 stars
Back to Eden: A Biblical Perspective on Wealth and Poverty
by Dr. Simon Thiessen gives readers an insightful and thought-provoking
book that offers a systematic Biblical approach to the issues of wealth and
poverty. With several key concepts, the author speaks broadly of the
evangelical movement that divides into two basic groups: one group stresses the personal relationship
with Jesus Christ while ignoring their social responsibilities to the poor and
the other that stresses both a personal relationship with the Lord that
encourages, “a practical evidence of their faith as expressed in our responsible
stewardship of our entire life.” (p.xi) Beginning from Creation to the Fall of
man, the author takes readers on a discovery through the Bible from Old and New
Testament text that reveals a fascinating understanding of Scripture when it
comes to becoming prosperous, what it means to live life abundantly and God’s
structure of wealth. As the author states, “Our purpose is to arrive at a
perspective about wealth and poverty which is in accordance with scriptural
teaching.” (p.xii)
Within this, and by combining academic research, Christian
theology and the varying facets of human nature, the world, sin and
righteousness, the author shed lights on what the Church’s social
responsibilities to the poor are from a Biblical viewpoint, thus answering key questions
that come to mind regarding wealth and possessions. Mentioning that God has
given us spiritual and natural laws that govern the universe, the author helps
readers also understand fundamentals that qualify Christians to partake of the
goodness of God that involves a firm commitment to covenant that must be
observed. The book also reveals the dangers of wealth, and what it means to
truly prosper.
Such chapters as: The Creation – Fall Events, The Concept of
Possession and Poverty Invaded by Creation and Fall Event, The Sinai – Covenant
Event, Wealth and Poverty in the Old Testament, New Testament Wealth and
Poverty, Living in Truth – Sanctification, Christ and the Rich, The Teachings
of Paul and Soteriological Implications. These chapters further reveal Biblical
truths in such a way that one will be forever enriched, offering a balanced
scriptural mindset when it comes to wealth, poverty and the worship of the
Lord.
This is a must-read for the entire Body of Christ to be made
aware of truths that are within the Word of God. With the modern prevalence of the prosperity Gospel and for the
person that has questions (in regards to wealth, materialism, money,
possessions, and how they relate to eternity), this book comes highly
recommended. Well-written and concise, the transparency of this book will no
doubt bring deep conviction while reminding Christians of the importance of
stewardship with their possessions, time and influence.
*Note: Our privilege in the service of God is not to be
taken for granted -- this book brings enlightenment, education and inspiration
to those who desire a true and firm commitment to the Lord.
You may get your copy of Back to Eden at Amazon or in Kindle. Be sure to visit the author at Dr. Simon Thiessen.