I think quite a bit of organized religion has become big business. Jesus Christ never sold the word of God. He never gave a sermon and then said, 'For $8.99, you can buy the CD.'

The quote by Ving Rhames, "I think quite a bit of organized religion has become big business. Jesus Christ never sold the word of God. He never gave a sermon and then said, 'For $8.99, you can buy the CD,'" critiques the commercialization of organized religion. Rhames highlights the contrast between the original teachings of Jesus Christ, which were freely shared, and the modern practice of monetizing religious messages and services. His words suggest that religion, in many cases today, has shifted from a spiritual mission to a profit-driven enterprise.

The origin of this quote reflects Rhames’ observations as an actor and public figure witnessing how religion is often intertwined with business practices, such as selling sermons, religious merchandise, or media. He uses humor and irony to expose the contradiction between the humble, accessible message of Jesus and the commercial tactics employed by some religious organizations. This statement challenges listeners to reconsider the motivations behind modern religious institutions.

On a deeper level, the quote calls attention to the tension between spirituality and commerce. It invites reflection on how the core values of faith—such as generosity, humility, and community—can be overshadowed by financial interests. Rhames’ words encourage a return to the original spirit of religion as a freely given message rather than a commodity to be bought and sold.

Ultimately, Ving Rhames’ statement is a critique of how organized religion can sometimes prioritize money over message. It serves as a reminder to differentiate between genuine spiritual teachings and commercial exploitation, urging a focus on faith’s true purpose rather than its financial aspects.