What Does the Bible Say About Materialism?

Materialism is an important Biblical topic. Somewhere between 500 and 1600 verses, depending on your perspective directly discuss money or wealth. One of the great Bible stories is found in Luke 18:18-23 where the rich ruler requests of Jesus the requirements for eternal life. Jesus says to sell all his possessions and give the proceeds to the poor. The young man walks away sad and Christ comments that it is difficult for the rich to enter heaven. This account among others has sometimes purported the belief that poverty is a good thing. The Bible has more to say, however and a review should give you enough information to decide what you think the Bible says about materialism.

Types

Before looking at what the Bible says about materialism and wealth and money in general, it would seem to make sense to identify some of the ways people look at having things which are "valuable."
Some people would look at material things as all there is to live for. It would seem some people would figure that materialism was not the only valuable thing in life but they would not view money as having anything to do with religious principles. Additionally there would be those who would say that it is more important to follow religious principles than have money and then there are those who say poverty is "Godly."

Identification

Take the different types one at a time and measure them against commentary by the Bible. The Bible talks about those who only live for money in Luke 12:15. A paraphrase of the commentary is that there was a rich man who was very well-off and he had so much he projected that he would build more barns to hold all of his material goods and then he would rest at ease. However he was considered a fool because that very night he died so all of his planning was in vain. The Bible gives that message. To only live for money is wrong.
Perhaps one of the great illustrations of isolating money or materialism from a religious mentality is in Luke 10:38-42 when Martha is concerned that Mary Magdalene is not taking care to help with dinner chores. She is gently rebuked by Jesus who says Mary is taking care of truly important matters by listening to him.
The Bible is very clear about the best approach to material things when Jesus says in the book of Matthew 6:33 "but seek ye first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you." In other words if you follow God, God will take care of your materialistic needs.

Misconceptions

One of the great misconceptions is that the Bible is anti-money. It is anti-the love of money. Further, people often use the argument that you should seek to be poor because the Bible is against money and they use this as an excuse not to work. Proverbs offers criticism of the lazy person in Proverbs 6:6; "Go to the ant thou sluggard. Consider its ways and be wise!" Proverbs verse 6:9 asks "How long will you lie there you sluggard?" And, also, verse 11 "...and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man." This is only one chapter of one book where the Bible discourages not working for material gain.

Considerations

While people will believe what they want, it appears from just a cursory look at a few verses that the Bible eschews greed and slothfulness and encourages pursuit of Godly issues with an eye towards diligence.

Benefits

The benefits of working hard but following God it would seem, as taught by the Bible, is a right perspective, self-sufficiency and support for God's work.

Resources

• Generous giving
• Money myths
• The rich, young ruler