about

The Pentecost Project is an experiment towards a more true and loving economy. Recently, the U.S. Congress passed an economic stimulus package that the President then signed. Beginning in May, most Americans will receive a rebate check that they are being encouraged to go out and spend in order to stimulate America’s sagging economy.

What if, instead of becoming greater consumers, we encouraged people to move towards an even better economy, an economy of abundance? What if, instead of accumulating more stuff, we encouraged people to give things away? What if, instead of the possibility of making a down payment and opening new credit, we encouraged people to pay down their debt?

Why the connection to Pentecost? On the day of Pentecost, after the Spirit descended on the apostles, and after Peter’s fiery preaching and the conversion of 3,000 people from all nations and races, the book of Acts goes on to tell us,

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47, NIV)

Later, in the 4th chapter, we learn,

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need. (Acts 4:32-35, NIV)

In this Spirit, we undertake the Pentecost Project: invest in others, share possessions, reduce debt.

3 Responses to “about”  

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  1. 1 corey on March 30, 2008 said:

    interesting idea. i’ve been thinking of something similar over the last month. i suppose this idea is only feasible if you aren’t so enslaved to the system that you can actually afford to pass on your rebate check to a good cause or someone who needs it more than you.

    keep the ideas coming. i was thinking of coming up with something that directly opposes the damage done by government tax spending in Iraq. Like giving to non profits that are helping to make change in Iraq through education and peace, not death and war.

  2. 2 Josh Frank on March 31, 2008 said:

    Great idea, Corey.

    Also, I want to encourage people to think beyond the issue of what to do with the rebate check. This Project is about more than just responding to the push to save ourselves by spending; we need to think creatively about both monetary and relational ways to invest in others, share possessions, and reduce debt.

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