Should Christians consider taking out a mortgage?

Definition and Background

A mortgage is a specific type of loan used to finance the purchase of real property, typically a home. In modern practice, a mortgage involves a contractual agreement between a lender and a borrower, with the property serving as collateral. Although the Bible does not use the term “mortgage,” it addresses principles of borrowing, lending, stewardship, and the responsibilities that come with financial commitments. These biblical themes can guide believers in deciding whether to take on a mortgage.

Biblical Context: Borrowing and Lending

A recurring biblical phrase is: “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). This verse helps illustrate the influence lenders can have over borrowers.

Scripture also recounts God’s caution to His people regarding excessive indebtedness (see Deuteronomy 28:12), as it can create an entanglement that hinders generosity and financial freedom. Yet, the Bible does not categorically prohibit all borrowing. Rather, it provides sober reminders of potential pitfalls and stresses the importance of integrity in repaying debts: “Give to everyone what you owe them…” (Romans 13:7).

Stewardship Principles

Believers are called to be faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to them (see Matthew 25:14–30). Stewardship involves using money, time, and talents in a way that honors God. Handling finances responsibly—whether through budgeting, saving, or wisely pursuing homeownership—can be part of good stewardship.

In the case of mortgages, responsible stewardship means considering whether the payments (plus interest) are sustainable without neglecting other God-given obligations. It also means using due diligence in selecting fair and transparent lending terms.

Counting the Cost

Before entering into a contract with a lender, believers benefit from following the principle the Lord shared about estimating one’s ability to complete a project: “For which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost…” (Luke 14:28).

Counting the cost involves:

1. Calculating whether one’s income can consistently cover mortgage payments without jeopardizing daily needs.

2. Assessing whether the interest and length of the mortgage align with wise financial stewardship.

3. Determining if future plans or God’s calling might be impacted by a long-term debt obligation.

Avoiding Unwise Debt

Some debts may become a spiritual and practical burden. Scripture warns against reckless or impulsive borrowing because it can lead to financial servitude. “The plans of the diligent bring abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5). Taking out a mortgage rashly—and then struggling to meet payments—can engender stress, hinder charitable giving, and limit one’s availability to serve in ministry.

Additionally, believers must consider the emotional and spiritual dimension of large debts. Anxiety over mortgage payments can distract from a worshipful reliance on God’s provision (see Matthew 6:25–34). By contrast, seeking godly counsel, praying for wisdom, and considering the short- and long-term ramifications can ensure that a mortgage does not overshadow one’s spiritual walk.

Trust in God vs. Practical Financial Planning

Financial planning does not negate trust in God. Rather, it is a way to apply biblical wisdom. Although Scripture underscores ultimate dependence on the Lord (see Proverbs 3:5–6), it also commends prudence and diligence. Purchasing a home through a mortgage, if managed responsibly, can coincide with a heart posture of surrender to God’s leadership and provision.

Believers should rely on the Holy Spirit’s guidance. In some cases, a mortgage could be a doorway to stable housing and an avenue for future blessing. In other cases, circumstances might warrant renting instead, downsizing, or waiting. Discernment involves both prayer and seeking advice from knowledgeable, biblically grounded financial counselors.

Exemplary Passages and Historical Reflections

While ancient Israel did not have mortgages in the modern sense, the Old Testament does provide glimpses of land transactions and property stewardship. In the book of Ruth, Boaz lawfully redeems land belonging to Naomi’s family (Ruth 4). This example of honorable property transaction underscores the importance of abiding by legal and ethical norms in financial dealings.

Throughout history, societies developed legal frameworks for loans to prevent exploitation (such as clauses in the Code of Hammurabi). Similarly, while modern lending practices differ significantly from ancient times, the biblical call to fairness, honesty, and just practices remains relevant, reminding Christians to select reputable lenders and fair terms if they choose a mortgage.

Practical Considerations

1. Interest Rates and Terms: High interest rates or predatory lending terms could subject a believer to unmanageable financial pressure. Thoroughly reviewing contracts helps protect against such pitfalls.

2. Budgeting and Saving: A well-planned budget that factors in income stability, potential job changes, or health crises can help ensure mortgage payments remain feasible.

3. Time Horizon: The length of the mortgage matters. Some may opt for shorter loans if possible, seeking to reduce debt obligations quickly while maintaining a healthy pace of repayment.

4. Generosity and Kingdom Work: Maintaining a desire to support ministry and help others financially is vital. If a mortgage squeezes out opportunities to give charitably or engage in mission work, that might signal the need to reconsider the size or type of mortgage.

Conclusion

Scripture does not prohibit Christians from taking out a mortgage. Instead, it encourages careful thinking, responsibility, and placing God first in all financial decisions. Biblical warnings about debt reflect practical wisdom: indebtedness can restrict believers’ freedom and their capacity to serve the kingdom.

However, a mortgage, approached with wise counsel, prayer, and sound financial planning, can function as part of faithful stewardship, providing a stable home and a means to honor the Lord. Ultimately, deciding whether to take on a mortgage requires prayerful discernment, thorough cost-counting, responsible budgeting, and ensuring debt does not compromise devotion to God or the ability to give generously. The believer’s ultimate trust remains in the One who provides all needs, rather than in financial devices themselves.