The Misplaced Values of the Consumer Community

Matthew 8:28-34

• Fulfillment is found by accumulating wealth

• Money can satisfy all of our needs• Lack of money (or stuff) is the root of

most of our problems

What is Consumerism?

• Demonic Reception (v. 28)

The Story

• Limited information

Demon Possession

• Limited information• Balanced view

Demon Possession

• Limited information• Balanced view • Not psychological disorders

Demon Possession

• Limited information• Balanced view • Not psychological disorders• Marked by deviant behavior

Demon Possession

• Demonic Reception• Demonic Recognition (v. 29)

The Story

• Demonic Reception• Demonic Recognition• Demonic Request (vv. 30-32)

The Story

• Demonic Reception• Demonic Recognition• Demonic Request• Demonic Reaction (v. 34)

The Story

Misplaced Values

What is consumerism?

Money becomes our ‘functional’ savior

Consumerism

• Permeates the whole community

Misplaced Values of Consumerism

“The mass of men would gladly hold to the gospel, if it did not touch their kitchen and income.”

Martin Luther

Whole Community

• Permeates the whole community• Is a very jealous god

Consumerism:

• Permeates the whole community• Is a very jealous god• Depersonalizes people

Consumerism:

A New Beginning