School of Rock, "Stick it to the man"Alright, alright, welcome to the label, man
Now check this out, man, listen. I know you're known for just being honest and transparent and all that good stuff
But listen, we ain't got no time for all that, man
That don't make no money
We need you to tell lies, lies, and more lies, man
It's all about selling out
Don't give the people what they need, give 'em what they want, baby
Lie to these folks, man!
Lecrae, "Sell Out"
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
Note: In-person worship and livestream
Worship is at 10:30 AM on Sunday
Pre-register for nursery here
Dear Grace Family,
If you live in Seattle, chances are you don’t aspire to become a sellout. Around here, we use words like “passion” and “authenticity” when we describe the type of person we want to become. At every moment, we feel the pressure the world puts upon us—to squeeze us into its mold in exchange for affluence and security.
Additionally, if you’re someone who enjoys a certain level of financial and vocational comfort in your life—full disclosure, I am one of those people—you may be haunted by the question:
Have I compromised my integrity in exchange for a nice life?
Abram was a very rich man—like, loaded rich.
For some comparison, Abram owned and operated a business enterprise that employed over 300 people (Genesis 14:14). In today’s dollars, he was probably a multi-millionaire many times over.
The Genesis story's take on Abram's wealth is complex. On the one hand, it is absolutely true that Abram's wealth is seen as an aspect of God’s blessing. And any wealth God has given you should likewise be received as a gift.
But at the same time, if we look carefully at this week's text, we will see how wealth (and power) become a very real temptation for Abram. He could have very easily been assimilated into his late Bronze Age, warlord culture after his decisive military victory over Kedorlaomer.
So, when we use a word like “sellout”, we are actually naming is this exact temptation. We know wealth and power are gifts from God, but we also know they can shipwreck our souls and draw us away from a daily trust in God.
In the text we will look at this week, God provides Abram with a way forward to preserve his faith. In a seemingly random outpouring of kindness, God gives Abram an even greater gift than money and a seat at the world’s table.
God gives Abram the gift of friendship. And, it is by receiving the friendship of God that we are able to faithfully navigate the sometimes treacherous waters of wealth and power.
I hope to worship with you on Sunday.
This Sunday: Genesis 14 (NIV)
Don’t Be A Sellout
Here is the Order of Worship.
Warmly in Christ,
Pastor John
P.S. We will continue to hold in-person worship and livestream this week at 10:30 AM. Pre-register for nursery here. Masks are required for everyone, regardless of vaccination status. Security measures from last week will remain in effect for the rest of September.