What does the Bible say about wealth?

Definition and Overview

Wealth, as presented in Scripture, encompasses more than material riches. It refers to possessions, financial resources, land, livestock, and anything that brings economic security. Biblical accounts show how wealth can be a blessing (when used with humility and generosity) or a snare (when greed, pride, or idolatry arise).

Wealth in the Old Testament

Many foundational teachings on wealth appear early in the biblical timeline. Genesis shows God blessing patriarchs with abundant resources—Abraham being a notable example. “Now Abram was extremely rich in livestock, silver, and gold” (Genesis 13:2). This short statement reveals that wealth itself can be viewed as a gift while also setting the stage for God’s moral expectations.

1. Blessings and Covenants

In the Old Testament, God’s covenants often included promises of provision. Deuteronomy repeatedly asserts that God would bless His people with prosperity if they obeyed His commandments (Deuteronomy 28). While this highlights the possibility of abundance, it also stresses obedience and gratitude. Wealth was never meant to become an idol.

2. Wisdom Literature and Wealth

Proverbs frequently mentions the benefits and dangers of riches. “The blessing of the LORD enriches” (Proverbs 10:22) underscores that legitimate wealth originates from God’s favor. Yet Proverbs 11:28 warns, “He who trusts in his riches will fall.” Wisdom literature consistently teaches that wealth is a useful resource but must never eclipse faithfulness to God.

3. Historical Context and Archaeological Corroboration

Archaeological findings in locations such as Hazor, Megiddo, and Gezer show vast storehouses and evidence of trade, reflecting the Bible’s portrayal of wealth during the reigns of David and Solomon (cf. 1 Kings 10–11). These excavations support the biblical narratives describing the splendor of Israel’s kingdom at its height. Fragments in the Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the consistent transmission of these Old Testament texts, demonstrating that the ancient tradition linking covenant faithfulness to God-given abundance has remained unchanged over millennia.

Wealth in the New Testament

Though wealth remains a significant theme, the New Testament provides clarity on the posture believers should adopt toward material prosperity.

1. Christ’s Teachings

Jesus spoke repeatedly about wealth, offering strong admonitions about its lure. He taught, “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24), emphasizing exclusive devotion. In Matthew 6:19–21, He advises not to lay up treasure on earth, urging a deeper focus on the eternal.

2. Early Church Practices

The Book of Acts depicts believers using their wealth to care for each other selflessly. They sold property and possessions to share with any in need (Acts 2:44–45, Acts 4:32–35). These stories illustrate the transformation of personal resources into a means of mutual support, reflecting Jesus’ command to love one another.

3. Epistles and Heart Attitude

In the pastoral letters, Paul instructs those with wealth to maintain humility and generosity. “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10) clarifies that greed, not money itself, corrupts. James also reproaches those who hoard earthly riches without compassion, affirming the danger that wealth can warp the human heart if revered above God (James 5:1–5).

Stewardship and Generosity

Biblical teaching on stewardship goes beyond simple warnings. Believers are called to honor God with their resources, using them to bless others.

1. Ownership vs. Stewardship

Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as the true owner of all creation (Psalm 24:1). Humans, in turn, are managers or stewards. This concept is consistent with a universe designed by an eternal Creator who provides resources for His people. Archaeological sites rich in metals and other natural resources reveal how the early world was well-equipped to sustain civilizations, aligning with the biblical concept of God’s good creation.

2. Generous Giving

Both Old and New Testaments emphasize liberality. The principle of tithing in the Old Testament (Malachi 3:10) shows that returning a portion to God instills discipline and gratitude. In the New Testament, the focus shifts from a fixed percentage to the heart’s willingness, as illustrated by the Corinthians’ collection for believers in Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Warnings against Greed

Scripture repeatedly urges vigilance against greed:

1. Old Testament Examples

Achan’s covetousness in Joshua 7 led to personal and communal trouble, showcasing how greed disrupts a covenant community. Prophets like Amos castigated the wealthy who oppressed the poor and indulged under unjust economic practices (Amos 5:11–12).

2. New Testament Cautions

Jesus’ parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21) provides a sobering image of misplaced trust when possessions overshadow spiritual preparation. Paul’s admonitions in Colossians 3:5 call greed “idolatry,” revealing that idolizing wealth usurps God’s rightful place in one’s life.

The Heart Attitude toward Wealth

God’s ultimate concern is the disposition of the human heart. Genuine devotion must transcend one’s bank account.

1. Contentment

Paul’s epistle to the Philippians (4:11–12) indicates he learned to be content “whether well fed or hungry,” showing that spiritual wholeness does not hinge on financial status. This principle resonates in various social and economic settings, affirming Christ’s sufficiency above all.

2. Humility and Dependance on God

Repeatedly, Scripture encourages believers to trust God for daily needs. Jesus’ teaching in the Lord’s Prayer underscores seeking God’s “daily bread,” reminding believers that dependence on the Creator is more fulfilling than storing worldly wealth.

Archaeological and Historical Corroboration

Numerous excavations within the lands of the Bible reveal commercial trade routes, currency systems, and evidence of affluence among ancient societies. These findings mirror scenarios recorded in Scripture, underscoring the steadiness of the biblical account:

• _Trade and Commerce:_ Records from Ugarit and Ebla tablets exhibit lively commerce, paralleling the biblical portrayal of profitable trade in ports like Tyre and Sidon (Ezekiel 27).

• _Consistency of Biblical Texts:_ The Dead Sea Scrolls, as well as other manuscript witnesses, confirm that the passages expressing approval for honest work, condemnation of greed, and call for generous sharing have been preserved accurately, reinforcing the text’s reliability.

• _Highlighting Design and Provision:_ Such archaeological and historical details align with the concept of intelligent design, reflecting how God equipped the earth with resources that humans could develop for sustenance, trade, and community.

Conclusion

The Bible presents wealth as neither innately virtuous nor inherently evil; rather, it is an instrument that can honor God or foster sin, depending on how it is managed and cherished. From Old Testament patriarchs to New Testament believers, Scripture shows that there is a redemptive purpose in using blessings to help others, demonstrate faith, and reflect the generous heart of the Creator.

Ultimately, biblical teaching calls each person to hold wealth loosely, to remain mindful of eternal priorities, and to trust in God’s provision. In all these matters, the consistent thread is that love for God and love for neighbor guide the believer’s attitude toward material possessions. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).