BONUS - How Ethical Is Accumulating Wealth? Middle-Class Money in Community, with Lakshmi and Erin

David, Lakshmi, and Erin dig into the intersection of wealth, faith, and community, particularly from the standpoint of middle-class Christians. Sparked by Lakshmi’s seminary research on Christian engagement with wealth accumulation in a neoliberal capitalist system, we explored theological and practical approaches to wealth:

What does it mean to have or accumulate wealth? What are the impacts of capitalism? the role of intentional Christian communities? and the balance between personal finances and larger systemic (in)justice? Can we create alternative economic systems grounded in Christian values of mutuality and relationship?

Check out Lakshmi’s work on communities at her Substack Dwelling Place!

★ Resources/Links/References:

* Wealth as Peril and Obligation by Sandra Eli Wheeler 

* The Principle of Maximums by Roger L. Stichter

* True Riches by John Cortines and Gregory Baumer

* Beyond Charity by John Perkins

* The Life You Can Save by Peter Singer

* Practicing the King’s Economy by Michael Rhodes, Robby Holt, and Brian Fikkert

* The Unjust Steward: Wealth, Poverty, and the Church Today by Escobar, Miguel

* When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner (illustrated by David Catrow)

★ Timestamps

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Introductions

(01:37) Lakshmi’s Journey and Thoughts on Wealth

(03:33) Erin’s Perspective on Wealth and Justice

(05:10) Who Is Wealthy?

(09:45) New Challenges in Neoliberal Capitalism

(12:32) Community and Economic Systems

(23:49)  Wealth as Peril and Obligation according to the New Testament

(27:32) Possessions, Wealth and Practical Faithfulness

(33:53) Joy beyond Guilt

(35:47) Approaches to Faith and Wealth

(40:16) Personality, Character, and Wealth

(48:44) Challenging Assumptions About Wealth and Virtue

(49:52) Economic Justice and Personal Responsibility

(50:59) Middle Class Mindset and Community Investment

(52:38) Navigating Power Dynamics in Personal Relationships

(53:36) The Role of Reciprocity in Building Community

(54:56) Class Perception and Social Mobility

(01:03:44) Intentional Christian Communities and Wealth

(01:05:45) Effective Altruism vs. Relational Giving

(01:07:19) Is Guilt Good for Generosity?

(01:09:35) The Importance of Relocation and Local Impact

(01:17:53) Final Reflections on Wealth and Responsibility—★ Send us feedback, questions, comments, and support! || Email: communionandshalom@gmail.com | Instagram: @newkinship | Substack: @newkinship

—

★ Credits || Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza, Tyler Parker | Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson, carlswensonmusic.com | Podcast Manager: Elena F. | Graphic Designer: Gavin Popken, gavinpopkenart.com ★

Get full access to New Kinship at newkinship.substack.com/subscribe