Foreword

The Dorian Principle, A Biblical Response to the Commercialization of Christianity by Conley Owens Forward To my knowledge a book like this has never been written

Bits and pieces of its truth have been scattered throughout the large body of Christian literature over the centuries

But no one has ever written a book devoted entirely to showing the relationship between money and ministry

One wonders why this book wasn't written centuries ago since 2 ,000 years of church history shows a shameful record of reproach brought on by greedy teachers

Those who use their knowledge of God's Word to personally profit and cause gain fairs occasion to blaspheme the name of the

Lord since 2006 First World Publications has freely given away over 300 ,000 copies of publications to people who are hungry for the

Word of God This of course is our reasonable service We deserve no special accolades for obeying the commands to preach the word and freely give

However by the free distribution of the Word of God We cannot be accused of making merchandise of God's Word on the contrary

We could cite examples of God's Word bringing forth much fruit for his glory.

This brings comfort to the conscience Our methods matter. In other words the tactics we employ to increase the kingdom of God Must arise from sound theology in such a holy enterprise.

The ends do not justify the means When our works are tested on Judgment Day Many will be surprised to find much of their works rooted in selfish greedy motives as the scripture says

Quote let each one take care how he builds upon it For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid which is

Jesus Christ Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold silver precious stones wood hay straw

Each one's work will become Manifest but the day will disclose it because it will be revealed by fire and the fire will test

What sort of work each one has done? unquote 1st Corinthians 3 10 through 13

The challenge this book provides will not discourage you in God's vineyard But inspire you further to test everything hold fast what is good abstain from every form of evil

This testing process will result in more lasting fruit and a ministry more useful in the master's service

You will find the Dorian principle to be undergirded with theological and biblical accuracy

Carefully researched with attention to detail and depth of insight the value of this book cannot be overstated