Christian Living

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CONSUMER MENTALITY


The notion of a consumer surfaces in one connection and then another, while not uncommonly cast in an unfavorable light. As such, it appears to be a subtle temptation, readily accepted and even promoted. Which, in turn, suggests that we give it a more deliberate consideration.
For instance, when engaged in higher education, we were at one point required to solicit student evaluations for each class. While there may have been some validity for this practice, it tended to shift attention from the responsibility of the students to that of their instructors. As a result, the latter would sometimes appear to compromise their grading, and turn to amusing the students instead of serious instruction.
Some were of the opinion that a more selective process would be preferable. That is, employ evaluations when teaching a new class, or when instructors have not as yet secured tenure. Otherwise, focus on the educational process.
We also encounter the consumer mentality in context of the church. As a case in point, the pastor of a mega-church recently observed that while they thought to be furthering discipleship, it turned out that they were entertaining. As such, their increase in numbers was misleading and counterproductive.
What, then, is implied by consumerism? The focus is on what one receives, rather than contributes. Conversely, Jesus was reported to have said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Otherwise expressed, one receives by giving. If thought to be an expression of the consumer mentality, it is decidedly of a higher order than usually implemented.
By way of illustration, a certain person considered taking leave of his church fellowship. When asked concerning his intent, he allowed that he would do so only when the faith community was better able to manage. Until such time, he would assist in its recovery. In this regard, he gave little or no evidence of a consumer perspective.
Nor does the apostle Paul, when observing: “I thank God whom I serve, as did my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, so night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers” (2 Tim. 1:3). Thus as an evidence of his commitment, resulting in a clear conscience, and inciting prayer on behalf of others.
“So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel”(v. 8). Since it is customary to demean Christians when they deviate from cultural standards. Moreover, suffering can be expected in the course of diligently pursuing the cause of Christ.
“Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day” (v. 12). His emphasis is thus on whom he believes, rather than on what he believes—although the latter is implicated. It was with this in mind, that while serving in the military during World War II, I concluded: “If you can’t trust Jesus, who can you trust?” So it was that I decided to follow Jesus, while only vaguely aware of what this might involve.
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them” Jesus allowed. “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:25-28). The Gentile rulers thus appear consumer oriented, seeking to gain from their places of prominence.
Not so the disciples. Rather, they were to render service to others. Then, in this regard, to minister to the full range of human needs: from those necessary for survival, including matters of security and acceptance, to personal fulfillment. Whether concerning some seemingly trivial matter to those of obvious consequence.
In conclusion, we are confronted with two options: that of consumer or those with commitment. If the former, then investing life with that which is temporal. If the latter, then as if laying up treasures in heaven. “Enter through the narrow gate,” Jesus admonished those listening to his teaching. “For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matt. 7:13-14). Just so!

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