Introduction

The Bible addresses the topics of wealth and stewardship extensively, providing guidance on how believers should view and manage material resources. Wealth, in itself, is neither inherently good nor evil; rather, it is the attitude towards wealth and the manner in which it is used that are of spiritual significance. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of stewardship, recognizing that all resources ultimately belong to God and are entrusted to individuals for His purposes.

Wealth in the Bible

The Bible acknowledges the existence and potential benefits of wealth. In the Old Testament, figures such as Abraham, Job, and Solomon were blessed with substantial wealth, which was often seen as a sign of God's favor (Genesis 13:2; Job 1:3; 1 Kings 10:23). However, the Scriptures also warn of the dangers associated with wealth, particularly the temptation to place trust in riches rather than in God. Proverbs 11:28 cautions, "He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently addressed the topic of wealth, highlighting the spiritual perils it can pose. In the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21), Jesus warns against storing up earthly treasures without being "rich toward God." Similarly, in Matthew 6:24, He teaches, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

Stewardship Principles

The concept of stewardship is rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate owner of all things. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." As stewards, believers are called to manage God's resources wisely and faithfully.

1. Faithful Management: The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the expectation of faithful stewardship. Each servant is entrusted with a portion of the master's wealth, and they are judged based on how they manage and multiply what they have been given. This parable underscores the importance of using one's resources to further God's kingdom.

2. Generosity and Giving: The Bible encourages believers to be generous with their wealth. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." Generosity is seen as a reflection of God's own nature and a means of blessing others.

3. Contentment and Trust: Believers are called to be content with what they have and to trust in God's provision. Hebrews 13:5 advises, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.'" Contentment is a safeguard against the love of money, which is described as "a root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10).

4. Eternal Perspective: Christians are encouraged to maintain an eternal perspective on wealth. Jesus instructs His followers to "store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:20). This perspective prioritizes spiritual riches over material wealth.

Conclusion

The Bible provides a balanced view of wealth, recognizing its potential for both good and harm. Believers are called to be wise stewards, managing their resources in a way that honors God and advances His purposes. Through faithful stewardship, generosity, contentment, and an eternal perspective, Christians can navigate the complexities of wealth in a manner that aligns with biblical principles.