Knowing well the realities of life in the world, the temptation of rich and poor alike, this great oratorthe golden-mouthedaddresses the questions of wealth and poverty in the lives of people of his day. For you obtained more than others have, and you have received it, not to spend it for yourself, but to become a good steward for others as well. The sermons of St John Chrysostom are noted as classical commentaries on the Christian life. If you are affluent, but spend more than you need, you will give account of the funds which were entrusted to you. This is why God has allowed you to have more: not for you to waste on prostitutes, drink, fancy food, expensive clothes, and all the other kinds of indulgence, but for you to distribute to those in need. In his Homilies on the Statues, he praises Abraham for his proper use of wealth. On Wealth and Poverty by St John Chrysostom - Spiritual Instruction - Christian Life - Book. If we provide for those in need, we shall obtain great plenty. Although Chrysostom frequently praises poverty and criticizes wealth, in his view neither is good nor evil in itself. John Chrysostom, On Wealth and Poverty, Part 1. For our money is the Lord's, however we may have gathered it.

By this we are taught then when we do not show mercy, we will be punished just like those who steal. To deprive is to take what belongs to another for it is called deprivation when we take and keep what belongs to others.

This volume brings patristic thought to bear on these vital. I shall bring you testimony from the divine Scriptures, saying that only theft of others' goods but also the failure to share one's goods with others is theft and swindle and defraudation. Wealth and poverty are issues of perennial importance in the life and thought of the church.

John chrysostom on wealth and poverty