What Does the Bible Say About Wealth?

Many people wonder what the Bible has to say about wealth. The Bible talks quite a bit about wealth, with the words "wealth" or "wealthy" appearing in the Bible 124 times. Many people will be surprised to learn that, according to the Bible, wealth in and of itself is not a bad thing. It is a person's attitude toward wealth that makes it "good" or "bad."

Misconceptions

Many people mistakenly believe the Bible views wealth as a vice. Having a lot of money, in and of itself, is not sinful. It is the "love" of money that is considered the root of all of evil. (I Tim. 6:10.) The Bible records multiple people whom God blessed lavishly with all kinds of riches, from Abraham (Gen. 13:2) to King Solomon (I Chron. 1:11-12).

Considerations

According to the Bible, wealth can be "deceitful." (Mark 4:18-19.) Those with wealth can mistakenly believe that they have no need for God or that they have full control over their own wealth. The Bible warns us not to store up our treasures here on earth but to store them up in heaven. (Matt. 16:19-20.) The Bible makes clear in I Sam. 2:7, that God is the one who sends poverty and wealth, so men ultimately do not have the power to hold onto their wealth if God chooses to send poverty.

Significance

We do not need wealth in order to have our needs provided for us. In Matt. 6:25-34, the Bible warns us not to put all of our focus on what to eat or wear. God already knows that we need these things. Instead, seek God's kingdom first, and then God will provide these other things as well. According to the Bible, the best way to get wealth is to focus on God and tithe. Focusing on accumulating wealth is a good way to lose your wealth and, more importantly, lose your relationship with God.

Benefits

When a wealthy person takes God's command to tithe seriously, so much good comes about. A person with great wealth has the ability to provide food, clothing, shelter, and meet other needs for those who are suffering. Abraham, who God made wealthy, took the duty to tithe very seriously. (See Gen. 14:18-20.) In Mal. 3:10, the Bible says to "test" God on his promise that, if we tithe, He will "throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it."

Warning

Wealthy people run the risk of allowing their wealth to stand in the way of their relationship with God. Jesus pointed this out in his discussion with the rich young man who believed that he had already followed all of the Law to the letter. However, when Jesus told him to sell all his possessions and give them to the poor, he went away sad because he had great wealth. Jesus then observed that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. (Matt.19:16-28.)

Resources

• The Rich Young Man