Wealth and Salvation

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses Russell Conwell's sermon entitled "Acres of Diamonds," in "Negotiating Difference," edited by Patricia Bizzell and Bruce Herzberg, in which he connects money to God's salvation and suggests that wealth is not the enemy of Christianity, but that it is actually quite the opposite. The paper discusses Conwell's argument and suggests that his argument would not be as convincing today as it was when he gave it.

From the Paper:

"Finally, Conwell was able to successfully establish the relationship between wealth and salvation in part due to the concrete nature of his sermon. He anticipates many objections, and he animates these objections by putting them into the voices of his audience members. If he recognizes a person's objection, he will seem more connected and dedicated to his public, and they will likely find his appeal more attractive. Also, when Conwell refutes an argument, he includes some sort of personal experience or anecdote to illustrate his point, which again, strengthens his argument and the relationship with his audience. By being so matter-of-fact and realistic in addressing questions about his sermon, it is difficult to refute the relationship he establishes."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Conwell, Russell H. From "Acres of Diamonds." in Negotiating Difference. eds. Patricia Bizzell and Bruce Herzberg. Boston: Bedford, 1996. 466-476.

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