There has been a constant tension in post axial religions between the attainment of earthly and transcendental goods. Pre axial religions were much more straightforward in seeing the satisfaction of their desires for wealth, health, offspring, land and honour as the main purpose of worship (for example the Mosaic covenant).
Contradictions in the Gospels: Problems or Opportunities?
Day One: A Sir Toby's Creation Myth
A Generous Orthdoxy - Brian McLaren
The Lost World of Genesis One - John H. Walton