Definition and Context
Great wealth in the biblical context refers to an abundance of material possessions, financial resources, and assets. It is often associated with prosperity, success, and the blessings of God. However, the Bible presents a nuanced view of wealth, emphasizing both its potential for good and the spiritual dangers it can pose.

Old Testament Perspectives
In the Old Testament, wealth is frequently seen as a sign of God's blessing. For instance, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were all blessed with great wealth as part of God's covenant promises (Genesis 13:2; 26:12-14; 30:43). King Solomon is another prominent example, renowned for his immense wealth and wisdom, which he received as a gift from God (1 Kings 3:13; 10:23).

The Law of Moses includes numerous instructions regarding wealth, emphasizing justice, generosity, and care for the poor. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds the Israelites, "But remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth, in order to confirm His covenant that He swore to your fathers, as it is this day." This underscores the belief that wealth ultimately comes from God and should be used in accordance with His will.

Wisdom Literature
The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, particularly Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, offers practical insights into the nature of wealth. Proverbs 10:22 states, "The blessing of the LORD enriches, and He adds no sorrow to it," suggesting that true wealth is accompanied by peace and contentment. However, Proverbs also warns against the pursuit of wealth for its own sake, as in Proverbs 23:4-5: "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. When you glance at wealth, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky."

Ecclesiastes presents a more skeptical view, noting the futility of amassing wealth without a proper relationship with God. Ecclesiastes 5:10 observes, "He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile."

New Testament Teachings
In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles address the topic of wealth with a focus on spiritual priorities. Jesus warns of the dangers of wealth, famously stating, "It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" (Matthew 19:24). This highlights the potential for wealth to become an obstacle to spiritual growth and dependence on God.

The parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21) illustrates the folly of hoarding wealth without regard for one's spiritual state. Jesus concludes the parable with a warning: "This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God" (Luke 12:21).

The apostle Paul echoes these sentiments, advising Timothy, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows" (1 Timothy 6:10). Paul encourages believers to be content with what they have and to use their resources to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share (1 Timothy 6:17-19).

Theological Implications
The Bible's teachings on great wealth emphasize the importance of stewardship, contentment, and generosity. Wealth is not inherently evil, but it carries significant responsibilities and potential pitfalls. Believers are called to view their resources as gifts from God, to be used for His glory and the benefit of others. The ultimate treasure, according to Scripture, is not found in material wealth but in a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, who offers eternal riches that far surpass earthly possessions.