What Does the Bible Say About Money? Scripture's Surprising Teaching on Wealth

Money is one of the most frequently discussed topics in Scripture — Jesus talked about it more than he talked about heaven or hell. What does the Bible say about money? It's more nuanced than most people expect.

The Most Misquoted Verse About Money

The actual verse is 1 Timothy 6:10: "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." Money itself is not the problem — the love of money is the danger. The question is not how much money you have. The question is what money has of you.

Jesus and Money

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money" (Matthew 6:24). Money can become a rival god — making promises, demanding loyalty, and shaping behavior.

The Old Testament: Wealth, Wisdom, and Warning

"Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you... Or I may become poor and steal" (Proverbs 30:8–9). Neither poverty nor wealth is inherently better — the danger is in what either extreme does to your relationship with God.

The Tithe and Generosity

"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). The New Testament ethic of giving is rooted in gratitude for what God has already given.

God's Concern for the Poor

Throughout Scripture, God expresses particular concern for the poor. Proverbs 19:17 says lending to the poor is lending to the Lord. Jesus quoted Isaiah in Luke 4:18: "He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor."

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