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The article focuses on the concept of privilege and how conservative critics often dismiss the idea that unearned advantages contribute to their lives. Topics include the stereotypes and harassment faced by the poor, the hidden nature of government benefits that disproportionately benefit the rich, and the notion of wealth as virtue and the false belief that everything in life is earned.

The author discusses the privilege of opting out that not all people have. These include being able to opt out of undesired circumstances due to one's race, gender, or class. It relates to Jesus Christ's decision to opt in to his greater calling of love and to die on the cross, despite numerous opportunities to opt out of the way of suffering.

A personal narrative is presented that discusses the author's experience on a discussion panel of conservatives in relation to the idea of self-made success in life and responsibility to help others.

The author discusses her work with the Christian charitable organization Diakonia in the Pacific Islands, particularly relating it to the themes of authority and power presented in the Gospel of Luke. She addresses the implications of the authority of Jesus Christ, the relationship between privilege and Christian social values, and the importance of using authority for charity.