Christianity: Way to God or Big Business?

Whether Christianity is the way to God or a "business venture" may depend on who you ask. Certainly, devout Christians feel that their religion is the way to God. On the other hand, the religion has indeed become a big business in some ways.

There are many who downplay big business' involvement in religion. Yet, the fact remains that big business has been using religion as a means of making money. Some argue that Jesus encourages business, while others say that big business is contrary to religious ideals. What is not in dispute is that big business is deeply involved in religion. There is now a Christian game franchise, which some argue is a good counter-balance to the violence and sexuality of many video games.

Christian music is also now a major player in the music entertainment industry. This trend began with music concerned primarily with spreading the word of God. However, there are many artists (some of which are very popular) that merely wish to market and play their music for the masses. Although all Christian music does have certain religious overtones, the sole purpose is not necessarily to recruit members to the faith.

Big business has used Jesus as the model of a business man; after all, the job of the apostles was to "sell" the religion of Christianity to others. The Pope has even been involved in the sale of french fries! Many are appalled at the degradation of Christianity in this way.

The Evangelical preachers have been very adept at using modern media, entertainment, and merchandising techniques to garner huge incomes. One can debate whether their actions are more concerned with income or propagating faith. What is clear is that Christianity and big business, while they may not necessarily go hand-in-hand, certainly have an influence on each other.