Should Christians Purposely Practice Asceticism

328 Words2 Pages
Materialism refers to preoccupation with the material world as opposed to spiritual life. It focuses on material possessions. The emphasis is on material success and progress and it is considered the highest values in life. Whereas asceticism de-emphasizes the pleasures of the world so that whoever practice it can focus on the spiritual life. Asceticism encourages practice of strict self-denial as a means of attaining a higher spiritual level. We need to maintain a biblical balance. The Bible never suggests that a Christian should purposely practice asceticism. On the contrary, Paul said that God blessed us “with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17) Paul also warned against the false teacher who “forbid people to marry and order