As a devout Christian and theologian, I am very mindful of my attitude towards money and how I acquire it. This is not easy because the contemporary world comes with numerous financial obligations.
That is why I was not surprised to learn that over 18% of insurance claims contain fraud. I recently heard about a man who torched one of his restaurants for insurance money.
This got me wondering what the Bible says about such actions. I spoke to several experienced colleagues in theology, and they shared their thoughts on the topic.
I also broached the subject with three local ministers who had interesting thoughts about attitudes toward money. During our weekly bible study session, one of the members wanted to know why the love of money is evil if we all need it to live quality lives.
Having done my due diligence on the topic, I was excited to answer her question.
So, is the love of money evil?
Biblically, the love of money is evil. Money itself is not evil, but an obsession for it is considered evil. People with a deep obsession and love for money tend to do evil things to acquire it. Some steal, and others even kill for financial gain. The Bible maintains that greed for money is a recipe for disaster. This is evident in the case of Haman, who plotted against the Jews to acquire more power and wealth.
Join me as we study what scripture says about money. We will also discuss various attitudes toward money. Read on to find out whether the Bible considers money to be evil.
What is the meaning of the love for money according to the Bible?
According to 1st Timothy 6:4-5, the love of money is the willingness to sin for financial gain. The love of money represents an unhealthy attachment to worldly possessions.
People who love money think it is the solution to everything. This mindset hinders you from waiting on God. People who love money rely on the luxuries that come with it.
Matthew 6:24 reminds us that no one can please two masters. If you put money above God, it will lead you into sin.
What does it mean that the love for money is the root of all evil?
The love of money and greed go hand in hand. Often, money-hungry people end up compromising their values for money.
If you lack a spirit of contentment, it will make you long for more, even if you have plenty. The love of money stirs up other sins like Robbery and deception.
For instance, the Bible warns against using unholy methods to acquire money. This is spoken about in Proverbs 20:23. In this scripture, Believers learn that God is opposed to the use of false weights and scales to maximize profit.
People who do such things have their vision blurred by the love of money.
Why is the love for money the root of all evil?
Valuing money over everything is sinful, according to the Bible. In 1st Timothy 6:10, the apostle Paul writes that the love of money is the root of all evil.
Paul wanted the people to fix their eyes on Jesus instead of material wealth. The apostle argued that the love of money exposes one to many temptations.
For example, you might be tempted to swindle someone in a business deal to make more money. If you invest too much time and energy toward acquiring money, you will spend less time seeking God.
Can you love money and not be evil?
It is nearly impossible to avoid evil if you have a toxic love for money. This attitude causes one to become nonchalant about the well-being of others or pleasing God.
That said, the Bible does not say that money itself is evil. Ecclesiastes 10:19 acknowledges that money solves many problems.
God is not against success and financial freedom.
He blessed people like King Solomon and Queen Esther with much material wealth. However, before they became wealthy and powerful, both individuals proved to be God-fearing people of good character.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
