Exeter Seventh-day Adventist Church

What Does the Bible say About Money?

Jesus and the Bible both say a lot about money. Several common Bible verses that talk about money include, “For the love of money is the root of all evil” and “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (I Tim 6:10, Matt 6:21) It has been said that Jesus spoke about money more than almost any single topic in the Bible. The word "money" is mentioned around 130 times in the Bible. (King James Version)

Bible Verses About Money

Where do material blessings come from? Deuteronomy 8:18 says, "But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day."

Can money get in the way of more important things? Wealth can become the center of our life and take God's place. Jeremiah 9:23-24 says, "Thus says the LORD, “Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD."

Should Wealth be a Priority?

Wealth can give us wrong attitudes about material things. Luke 12:15 says, "And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."

It is unwise to make financial success a priority. Matthew 6:24 says, "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."

Can I Go to Heaven if I am Rich?

While it is not impossible, it is difficult for the rich to become citizens of God's kingdom. Mark 10:23-25 says, "And Jesus, looking around, said to His disciples, “How hard it will be for those who are wealthy to enter the kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

The love of money leads to evil. I Timothy 6:10 says, "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."

Will Being Rich Make Me Happy?

Contentment is not related to amount of money or possessions. Philippians 4:12-13 says, "I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

Our interest lie where our money is invested. Matthew 6:21 says, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.