Capable Quote by Malidoma Patrice Some
“In Africa, you cannot come into a comfortable material lifestyle without going through Christ. So many Africans say, "I'll take the whole package. That way I'm sure I'll get what I want." This is the compromise the rising urban class of Africa makes. Christianity is not seen as a soul-transforming device capable of producing redemption, but as a source of substantial material gratification.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Healing Wisdom of Africa" by Malidoma Patrice Some, 1998
In some African contexts, Christianity is pursued primarily for material benefits rather than spiritual transformation.
In simple terms: People seek material gain through faith.
Key Takeaway
Seek genuine spiritual growth.
Themes
materialism
faith
culture
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
social
When to use this quote
- urban African life
- religious conversion
- economic aspiration
Key Concepts
theology
social economics
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do people equate faith with material success?
- What are the costs of a materialistic view of religion?
A Different Perspective
Material focus can undermine deeper spiritual fulfillment.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
