Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Context:Wealth, in the biblical context, refers to an abundance of material possessions, resources, or riches. The Bible addresses wealth extensively, providing guidance on its acquisition, use, and the spiritual implications it carries. Wealth is often seen as a blessing from God, yet it also presents significant spiritual challenges and responsibilities.
Old Testament Insights:In the Old Testament, wealth is frequently associated with God's blessing. For instance, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were all materially prosperous, and their wealth was seen as a sign of God's favor (
Genesis 13:2; 26:12-14; 30:43). The Mosaic Law included provisions for the fair distribution of wealth and care for the poor, emphasizing justice and compassion (
Leviticus 19:9-10;
Deuteronomy 15:7-11).
The wisdom literature, particularly Proverbs, offers practical advice on wealth.
Proverbs 10:22 states, "The blessing of the LORD enriches, and He adds no sorrow to it." However, it also warns against the dangers of wealth, such as pride and self-reliance (
Proverbs 11:28; 28:11). The book of Ecclesiastes reflects on the futility of wealth when pursued as an end in itself (
Ecclesiastes 5:10-11).
New Testament Teachings:In the New Testament, Jesus addresses wealth frequently, often highlighting the spiritual dangers it poses. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal" (
Matthew 6:19). Jesus emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual riches over material wealth (
Matthew 6:33).
The parable of the rich fool (
Luke 12:16-21) and the encounter with the rich young ruler (
Mark 10:17-27) illustrate the potential for wealth to hinder one's relationship with God. Jesus famously states, "It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" (
Mark 10:25), underscoring the spiritual peril of wealth when it becomes an idol.
The early church, as depicted in Acts, practiced communal sharing of resources, ensuring that no member was in need (
Acts 4:32-35). The apostle Paul advises Timothy to instruct the wealthy "not to be arrogant, nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God" (
1 Timothy 6:17). He also warns that "the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (
1 Timothy 6:10).
Theological Implications:Wealth, according to biblical teaching, is not inherently evil but is a tool that can be used for good or ill. It is a test of character and stewardship, requiring believers to manage it wisely and generously. The Bible encourages believers to view wealth as a means to serve others and advance God's kingdom, rather than as an end in itself.
Practical Application:Christians are called to be generous and to use their resources to help those in need, reflecting God's love and justice. The biblical principle of stewardship emphasizes that all possessions ultimately belong to God, and believers are merely caretakers. This perspective encourages a lifestyle of contentment, gratitude, and reliance on God's provision.
Conclusion:While wealth can be a blessing, it also carries significant spiritual responsibilities and potential pitfalls. The Bible provides a balanced view, encouraging believers to seek first the kingdom of God and to use their resources for His glory and the good of others.
Topical Bible Verses
Mark 10:23And Jesus looked round about, and said to his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
Topicalbible.orgLuke 18:24
And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
Topicalbible.org
1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Topicalbible.org
Greek
2158. euschemon -- comely... a) comely, seemly, decorous, (b) of honorable position (in society),
wealthy,
influential.
... focuses on the outward of godliness, ie as
being (encouraging) to
...Strong's Hebrew
7961. shalev -- quiet, at ease... 1), quiet (1), satisfied (1).
being at ease, peaceable, in prosperity, quietness,
wealthy. Or shaleyv {shaw-lave'}; feminine shlevah
...Library
"A Certain Young Man from Asia, ExceedinglyWealthy, of...
... "A certain young man from Asia, exceedinglywealthy, of distinguished... entering into
the wilderness, he in a short time became distinguished asbeing perfect in...
Whether a Man's Excellence is the Cause of hisBeing Angry?
... motive of anger: and thus excellence is the cause of a manbeing easily angered... of
all angry, if they be slighted in that matter; for instance, awealthy man in...
Jesus' Law for the Use of Money.
... of awealthy man's estate. His dishonest practices have been discovered, and he
is required to make a final settlement preliminary to hisbeing discharged....
Of the Excellence of the Perfect Man who is Figuratively Spoken of...
... When instead ofbeing awealthy man he became poor, naked instead of rich, pining
away instead of strong, despised and contemptible instead of famous and...
Whether, in Trading, it is Lawful to Sell a Thing at a Higher...
... lii): "Shun, as you would the plague, a cleric who frombeing poor has becomewealthy,
or who, frombeing a nobody has become a celebrity." Now trading would...
Certainty of Our Justification.
... of God; nor does the ungodly enter, through faith, into partnership with thewealthy
Jesus independently of the Father; neither does God,being informed of...
Peculiarities of Tennessee Synod.
... Thus by the instrumentality of those clerical beggars, and by the cause of Christ
being made a pander, the Church becomeswealthy; and wealth creates power...
Consecration.
... Awealthy aunt, having lost all her children andbeing very lonely, thought to fill
the vacancy in her heart and home by adopting a little child....
Celts and Celtophiles
... When awealthy nation like the English discovers the perfectly patent fact that
it is... All other gods, however weak and warring, at least boast ofbeing constant...
Psalm CXXIII.
... But not even ourbeing a maiden is wonderful; for we are the Church: nor is it... 6.
"Our soul is filled exceedingly; a reproach to thewealthy, and a contempt to...
Resources
What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.orgIs being gay a sin? Is it a sin to be gay? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the implications of God being infinite, unlimited, and unmeasurable? | GotQuestions.orgBeing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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