I’ve just completed reading a significant Christian book titled Back To Eden by Dr. Simon Thiessen which shares what the Bible says about wealth and poverty. His extensive academic research and relevant scripture teach that living God’s true purpose concerning money, wealth and poverty instead of centering upon wealth leads to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God. Therefore, the result of transforming our characters to center upon God opens the heart to fulfilling the needs of others with the money and possessions He has entrusted to us.

Having a Godly attitude about wealth and poverty, according to scripture, not only fulfills the physical needs of people, but more important it produces greater Christian and church growth. There is also the possibility of sharing Christ with the poor through the fulfilling of their needs to God’s glory which perpetuates the endless cycle of blessing that occurs when we give through Jesus Christ rather than for self-glory.

Back to Eden brings unity between God and man, emphasizing that Christians must make Jesus Christ Lord of their lives as well as Savior. Christ died on the cross to save mankind, and there is nothing we can do to add to His work on the cross. However, Dr. Thiessen proves with scripture that we must take action with Christ by making Him our Lord and following Him. We are to take part in His rest and the abundant lifestyle He offers which gives Christians the ability to feed the poor and go wherever God leads us without fear of poverty or harm because we look to God as our provider and protector rather than looking to ourselves.

In conclusion, I recommend Back To Eden as mandatory reading for all Christians once they receive salvation or become a new church member. The author’s studies begin with the Old Testament and continue through to the New Testament with a clear picture of God’s Plan for mankind which has been significantly altered by a worldly ethic of putting money and material wealth before God. We see this confusion in many Christian churches where worldly ideologies concerning wealth are preached instead of Biblical doctrine.  However, the more we follow Christ, the more we desire to be faithful stewards of the money and material possessions we accumulate, and we also become more aware of those in need. I believe this information will help to transform many churches to become unified in Christ to better serve their communities.