Someone in my Ministry Discernment Committee asked me this question:
Do you think there is a certain point at which wealth becomes a sin? If so, what and how? What is the church’s role of addressing it? How can this be done without becoming judgmental, or need we be?
If we are truly devoted to God, and committed to helping the poor, than why don't we all give up all of our possessions? I think it is because this issue goes much deeper. It has to do with what is in our hearts.
Wealth does becomes a sin once attaining it becomes more important than seeking God. When we care more about finding that materialistic comfort than we do worshiping God and being Christ-like, we are playing with fire.
In Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16:13, Jesus says that "you cannot serve both God and money." He urges us to store up treasures in heaven, to devote our hearts and minds to God.
Your question reminds me of Tom's sermon from the 15th. Money and wealth are definitely Gods that we tend to idolize. So many people spend a great part of their lives planning for and working towards a lush retirement. Along the way, we accumulate many goods that are not essential to living or serving God. Sometimes we get things that CAN be used for His glory, but we neglect to realize the potential. On the other hand, sometimes we do, and something that could be considered so unimportant and material turns into a kind of ministry. I'm talking about beach cabins that can be offered up for religious retreats, nice church facilities that can be used for concerts, meetings, after school programs, AA, etc.
When we use the earthly treasures to help people and glorify God, we store up our treasures in Heaven.
As far as the church's role in addressing wealth-sin without sounding judgmental...
I think that most people would respond to the concept using their wealth to "do good." There's no need to discipline people for not living EXACTLY as Jesus did. We have spouses, children, and we live in a different world. The church should ask people how they can use their place in this world to glorify God.
But this only accounts for the average person. As I implied on my "Back Page" article, I don't understand paying $1000 more for a wider airplane seat. (Nor do I understand paying $35 million to go into space FOR A SECOND TIME! - Thanks Julie) This of course comes from a poor college student who can't understand 'an extra thou,' and has always flown coach. I guess there is a point where I get a bit judgmental about that kind of spending, but I certainly don't think that the church should ever punish people for it. I've grown up knowing that the number one, absolutely, without a doubt, best way to help someone grow in their faith and develop a more Christ-like life is to be accepting, not critical. Charity is a very personal thing, and it shouldn't be done for external reasons. Discussing Jesus' lesson about treasures in Heaven would be a great way to inspire people to look inward and monitor their own level of charitableness.