Subtitle
Discover the powerful truth about Christians and money through the lens of Joseph of Arimathea's story. Unpack the misconceptions surrounding wealth in faith and learn how to embrace godly ambition for a purpose-driven, prosperous life that honors God and serves others.
Summary
In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the often misunderstood relationship between Christians and money. Using the biblical account of Joseph of Arimathea as our guide, we challenge the common notion that wealth and faith are incompatible. We explore how godly ambition, when coupled with wisdom and generosity, can be a powerful force for good in the world.
We begin by examining the qualities that made Joseph of Arimathea a model of godly wealth: his richness, respectability, goodness, calculated approach, boldness, humility, and generosity. Through this lens, we discuss how modern Christians can cultivate these same qualities in their pursuit of success and financial abundance.
The episode tackles head-on the cultural stigma surrounding wealth in Christian circles and encourages listeners to reframe their perspective on money. We emphasize that wealth itself is neutral – it's how we acquire and use it that matters. By aligning our ambitions with God's purposes, we can become powerful agents of change and blessing in our communities and beyond.
We also address the importance of being calculated and wise in our approach to wealth, while maintaining the courage to act boldly when opportunities arise. The discussion highlights the balance between humility and confidence, showing how true godly wealth leads to a generous spirit that doesn't cling tightly to possessions but uses them to serve others.
Ultimately, this episode is a call to action for Christians to embrace their potential for wealth and influence, not for selfish gain, but as a means to make a greater impact for God's kingdom. It's an invitation to break free from limiting beliefs about money and to step into the fullness of what God has called us to be – influential, resourceful, and generous followers of Christ.
Top 3 Growth Tips
- Embrace Godly Ambition: Recognize that the desire for success and wealth isn't inherently wrong. Align your ambitions with God's purposes and pursue excellence in all you do. (Timestamp: 12:30)
- Cultivate Calculated Boldness: Be wise and strategic in your approach to wealth-building, but don't let caution paralyze you. Be ready to act boldly when God-given opportunities arise. (Timestamp: 28:45)
- Practice Generous Stewardship: View your resources as tools for blessing others. Develop a mindset of abundance and be quick to use your wealth to make a positive impact in your community and beyond. (Timestamp: 39:20)
For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:
About Ken Ott:
Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of
Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and
Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit:
Show Highlights
- [00:00] Ken introduces the topic of Christians and money, challenging common misconceptions.
- [02:15] The story of Joseph of Arimathea is introduced as a model of godly wealth.
- [05:30] "Being rich is not bad. So today, we're in Matthew 27, is going to be verse 57, to 61."
- [07:45] Ken discusses the first quality of Joseph: he was rich and used his resources for good.
- [12:30] "Having riches, and wealth and respect and influence and power is not bad. He had a lot of those things."
- [15:20] The importance of having resources to help others in need is emphasized.
- [19:40] Ken shares personal experiences of being able to help others through financial means.
- [23:15] "Joseph was respected. It says in Mark is describes him as slightly differently. And it says that he was a member of the Jewish Council."
- [27:30] The calculated nature of Joseph's actions is discussed.
- [31:45] "Joseph was bold, and he was courageous. And so he wasn't scared to be known as a Christ follower."
- [35:20] Ken talks about the humility of Joseph in caring for Jesus' body.
- [39:20] "Joseph didn't value things. Okay, he was generous."
- [43:50] The concept of "giving back" is challenged, encouraging a mindset of generous giving instead.
- [48:10] Ken discusses the idea of wealth creation as expanding a garden rather than dividing a pie.
- [52:30] "The bottom line, I believe it's clear that the world needs rich, rich people."
- [55:40] Ken shares his experiences living in Franklin, Tennessee, as an example of a community of godly, wealthy individuals making a positive impact.