Definition and Importance

Faith over material wealth is a biblical principle emphasizing the prioritization of spiritual values and trust in God over the accumulation and reliance on earthly riches. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles, who consistently highlighted the transient nature of material possessions compared to the eternal significance of faith and spiritual well-being.

Biblical Foundations

1. Teachings of Jesus: Jesus Christ frequently addressed the issue of wealth and its potential to distract from spiritual devotion. In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:19-21). This passage underscores the importance of focusing on heavenly treasures, which are imperishable, over earthly wealth.

2. The Rich Young Ruler: In the encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus further illustrated the challenge of wealth in relation to faith. When the young man asked how to inherit eternal life, Jesus instructed him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, promising him treasure in heaven. The young man’s sorrowful departure highlighted the difficulty of prioritizing faith over material wealth (Matthew 19:16-22).

3. Parable of the Rich Fool: Jesus also told the parable of the rich fool, who stored up abundant crops and planned to enjoy his wealth, only to lose his life that very night. Jesus concluded, "This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God" (Luke 12:21). This parable serves as a warning against the folly of placing trust in material wealth rather than in God.

Apostolic Teachings

1. Paul’s Instructions: The Apostle Paul addressed the issue of wealth in his letters, advising believers to maintain a proper perspective. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10, he warned, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." Paul emphasized that the pursuit of wealth can lead to spiritual peril, urging believers to seek contentment and godliness instead.

2. Contentment and Trust: Paul further encouraged contentment in Philippians 4:11-13, where he wrote, "I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." This passage highlights the sufficiency of Christ over material abundance.

Old Testament Insights

1. Wisdom Literature: The Old Testament also provides insights into the relationship between faith and wealth. Proverbs 11:28 states, "He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf." This proverb contrasts the instability of wealth with the flourishing of those who live righteously.

2. Ecclesiastes: The book of Ecclesiastes reflects on the vanity of wealth and the ultimate fulfillment found in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The Preacher’s exploration of life’s meaning underscores the futility of pursuing wealth as an end in itself.

Practical Application

Believers are called to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that material wealth is temporary and should not overshadow their faith and trust in God. The biblical principle of faith over material wealth encourages Christians to use their resources for God’s kingdom, to practice generosity, and to find contentment in their relationship with Christ. By doing so, they align their lives with the values of the kingdom of God, where true riches are found.