Simple Living
The point of this page is to bring together resources on simplicity, generosity, contentment, and hospitality — the counter-cultural shape of a life shaped by the gospel rather than by consumerism.
On Consumerism
Consumerism is one of the most powerful forces shaping Western life and Western churches. These articles explore why it matters and what the gospel has to say about it.
- What’s the problem with consumerism? Eight reasons.
- Consumerism remains a deadly enemy to faith
- The church we need (but don’t have) to dethrone consumerism
- We are the consumed
- Living with startling abundance
- The consumerism of Christmas (and every other day of the year)
On Generosity and Simplicity
The Christian response to consumerism isn’t guilt — it’s a reorientation toward generosity, enough-ness, and freedom.
On Hospitality
Hospitality is one of the most practical and countercultural things a Christian can practise. These posts explore what it looks like to actually do it.
Books
I’ve read widely on this theme over the years. Rather than list every book here, the best place to start is this post: Top 10 books on consumerism — which covers everything from Randy Alcorn and Richard Foster to Ron Sider and Skye Jethani.
External Resources
- Generous Giving — stories and resources on the theology and practice of giving
- Stewardship — UK-based financial discipleship resources
- Breathe
- Advent Conspiracy
External Documents & Articles
- An Evangelical Commitment to Simple Life-style (Lausanne Discussion Paper)
- Resistance is Futile? Helping Kids learn Generosity (Stewardship resource)
- Andy Naselli gives a good summary of Mike Bullmore preaching on giving
- The problem with consumerism
- Tim Keller – A sermon on Radical Generosity (audio)