First Page
30
Last Page
50
Abstract
This article examines the general terminal and instrumental values of Christian leaders and the values of capitalism and capitalistic culture. Using the socio-rhetorical method, this article analyzes the Lukan Beatitudes (Luke 6:20–26). The study pays close attention to social and cultural textures in Luke’s Gospel to make sense of the extreme propositions in Luke 6:20–26. The social and cultural textures of limited good worldview, apocalyptic ideology, and sect typologies illuminate multiple values that should inform Christian leaders. The remainder of the article evaluates the Christian values of the Lukan Beatitudes in conversation with a capitalistic culture’s values. The study reveals that the rich should not necessarily be considered evil because of the economic opportunities that now exist in capitalistic cultures. It also suggests that Christians can lead in capitalistic cultures based on their shared value of human flourishing—with the critical caveat that Christian leaders must condemn wealth gained by corruption and use their resources to alleviate poverty.
Recommended Citation
Gossman, Jeff
(2023)
"How the Lukan Beatitudes must Form a Christian Leader's Values in a Capitalistic Culture,"
Journal of Applied Christian Leadership:
Vol. 17:
No.
1, 30-50.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/jacl/vol17/iss1/5