Gospelism.org

One of the most discussed concepts in the discipline of economics is the model of a simplified, rational economic man, “Homo economicus.”  The basic idea is the model of an economic agent acts purely to maximize his personal “utility function” or well-being, at the least amount of work or cost.

There are several debatable issues that have already been raised with this model, such as Homo economicus’s limitations to extrinsic motivations, assumptions of perfect knowledge, lack of granularity between short-term and long-term goals, and most concerning, the tendency for this model to be self-fulfilling.  A good example is found in the observation of students of classical economics becoming more self-centered and amoral themselves.  Critics have basically classified Homo economicus a psychopath.

In contrast to the model, I’d like to develop a corollary model in the form of a born-again, spiritually regenerated believer of the gospel, “Homo gospelicus.”  The key differences are obvious (see matrix below).  

1. Unlike Homo economicus, Homo gospelicus is moral aware and makes decisions based on moral absolutes, biblical principles and the law of Christ (love).
2. Homo gospelicus is more complex; capable of operating merely according to their self-interest but also capable of choosing intrinsic motivations, such as reverence, obedience and compassion.
3. Homo gospelicus is relational, both with God (as a child of God) and other believers (brothers and sisters in Christ). 
4. Finally, the man operating according to Gospelism, Homo gospelicus inspiring and encourages maturity and morality.

Granted, some limitations with this model come to mind:

• Hypocrisy - Acknowledged.  Most Christians are guilty of some hypocrisy, at least in some areas.  This is also natural, being as believers are perfect - just forgiven.  Part of the answer for this limitation is the fact that there is such an awareness of its possibilities, that this limitation promotes the need for transparency.
• Authenticity - Acknowledged. Only God can know a person’s heart. The guide for assessing a person’s authenticity is to monitor their behavior over a long period of time.  Jesus said, “You will know a tree by its fruits. [Matt 7:15-20]
• Fundamentalism - Acknowledged. Man has a natural tendency to spiritualize and misunderstand God’s intentions.  In the same way it is unrealistic for Homo economicus to have perfect information, Homo gospelicus is limited by knowledge of God’s Word, its principles, and their practical application.  In this case, time spent walking in faith, growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ leads to maturity.
• Religious - Acknowledged. Man’s natural tendency is to digress into religion rather that operate in relationship.  This is where a significant contrast between the secular Homo economicus and the spiritual Homo gospelicus makes the most difference.  Homo gospelicus operates within fellowship of believers and is encouraged to love God with all his soul and to love his neighbor as he loves himself.

Well, for now, that’s the rough idea…