1. Consumer Culture and the Christian

2. We live in a consumer culture: $U.S. Billions Cosmetics in the United States 8 Ice cream in Europe 11 Perfumes in Europe and the United States 12 Pet foods in Europe and the United States 17 Business entertainment in Japan 35 Cigarettes in Europe 50 Alcoholic drinks in Europe 105 Americans spent an average of 2,572 dollars per person on entertainment alone in 2011.

3. Consumer culture has infiltrated church culture

4. This is not a recent development……

5. Setting the Scene: John 6:11- Jesus feeds the 5000 John 6:22 – On the Next Day…. Jesus says something unpopular, risky…. And the consumer Christians leave in droves.

6. Consumer Christians: Are quick to find flaws and criticize, but slow to lend a hand Enjoy being served, but resent serving Love church as long as it caters to their desires, schedule, taste, etc. Get uncomfortable when asked to give money, time, skill, etc Often switch churches seeking the “ultimate religious experience” but are left unsatisfied.

7. Decision time for the Disciples: After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him... So Jesus said to the Twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?”

8. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.

9. Consumed Christians: Don’t conform to the world, but are transformed Find joy in serving others Are eager to lend time, money and skill to the work of God Are slow to criticize and quick to lend a hand Love the church even when it doesn’t always meet their particular tastes and preferences. Join a church family and get involved.

10. Which are you? A consumer Christian Or A consumed Christian?