good books on lifestyle
"Those are my principles. If you don't like them I have others." (Groucho Marx)
Money and lifestyle questions often raise the temperature when discussed. Some books which wrestle with scripture to generate more light than heat.
Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger
Ronald Sider
An older Christian classic (now revised) which threw the cat amongst the pigeons with its shocking contrast of wealth and poverty in the world and its call to a biblically based and simpler lifestyle. It spawned David Chilton's "Productive Christians in an Age of Guilt Manipulators" by way of response. Not every detail is persuasive but this is a powerful and passionate biblical challenge to consumer culture,
Godly Materialism
John Schneider
Schneider has revised this older book in The Good of Affluence but Godly Materialism is the more accessible introduction to his thinking. Steering a middle course between prosperity gospel and the negative asessment of wealth he sees in Sider's book Schneider writes for affluent Christians. He affirms capitalism and the blessings of affluence but also calls Christians to responsible living. Interesting, thoughtful, and well read, Schneider wants to reclaim appropriate 'dominion and delight' in God's creation. Interesting contribution but not finally persuasive.
The Irresistible Revolution
Shane Claiborne
Not a book about lifestyle; the story of a man, and a community, on a journey to live out the teachings of Jesus in a radical way. Full of passion and challenge, Claiborne pulls no punches but also writes with wit and a gracious spirit. Warning: this book could change your life!
Money, Sex and Power
Richard Foster
Foster is an authority on generosity, simplicity and spiritual growth. The teaching on money is clear, concise, prophetic, authentic and full of compassion. One of the best introductions to how money works in the kingdom of God.
Serve God, Save the Planet
J. Matthew Sleeth
US doctor Matthew Sleeth underwent a kind of conversion to simpler living. This book is his plain-speaking, story-telling guide to a range of lifestyle issues. From downsizing, to sabbath, to TV watching and energy saving – a comprehensive and readable stimulus to lifestyle change.
