What Does the Bible Say About Money?
Question 47 in Faith Seeking Freedom: Updated & Expanded
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Bible references to money, wealth, and possessions are numerous, starting with God’s instructions to Abraham on the occasion of their landmark covenant (Gen 17:12–13). The Bible discusses many practical and beneficial uses for money: the purchase of land (Gen 23:9-13, 33:19), livestock (Ezra 7:17), and food commodities (Gen 47:14), the payment of wages (Exod 2:9) and civil damages (Exod 21:34), and even as a means for rebuilding the Temple of the Lord (2 Kgs 12:9–11, Ezra 3:7).
However, sin has infected all aspects of life in a fallen world, including our relationship with money. Both the Old Testament and New Testament are full of warnings against temptations related to money. People are tempted to steal money entrusted to them (Exod 22:7). We are tempted to withhold timely payment of it to our employees (Jer 22:13). We are tempted to use money to satisfy our fleshly lusts (Deut 23:18). We are tempted by bribes (Prov 17:23, Mic 3:11).
All of these misuses of money are rooted in the love of money (1 Tim 6:10), a sinful heart attitude that comes from discontentment with what God has provided (Heb 13:5). Christians need not reject the practical and beneficial uses of money. Indeed, we should be trustworthy in our handling of money (Luke 16:11) and good stewards of all that is entrusted to us (Matt 25:14–30). But all believers must always be wary about putting our trust in money or other forms of material wealth (Matt 6:19–21). We should instead emulate the widow who dramatically demonstrated a confidence in God rather than in money (Mark 12:41–44).