The concept of valuing spiritual over material support is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, emphasizing the eternal significance of spiritual wealth compared to the transient nature of material possessions. This principle is woven throughout Scripture, encouraging believers to prioritize their relationship with God and the pursuit of spiritual growth over the accumulation of earthly wealth.

Biblical Foundations

1. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus Christ frequently addressed the issue of material wealth and its potential to distract from spiritual priorities. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs, "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 eternal treasures rather than temporary, earthly ones.

2. The Rich Young Ruler: In the encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus highlights the challenge of material wealth as a barrier to spiritual commitment. When the young man asks how to inherit eternal life, Jesus tells him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me" (Matthew 19:21). The young man's sorrowful departure illustrates the difficulty of relinquishing material wealth for spiritual gain.

3. Parables of Jesus: The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21) further illustrates the folly of prioritizing material wealth. The rich man, who stores up goods for himself, is called a fool by God, who demands his life that very night. Jesus concludes, "This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God" (Luke 12:21).

Apostolic Teachings

1. Paul's Instructions: The Apostle Paul consistently emphasizes the superiority of spiritual wealth. In his letter to Timothy, he writes, "For the love of money is a 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 advises believers to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11).

2. Contentment and Generosity: Paul also teaches contentment and the value of generosity. In Philippians 4:11-13, he states, "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 Book of Proverbs offers wisdom on the fleeting nature of wealth and the enduring value of spiritual integrity. Proverbs 11:4 states, "Riches are worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death" . This proverb contrasts the temporary security of wealth with the eternal security of righteousness.

2. Ecclesiastes: The Preacher in Ecclesiastes reflects on the vanity of material pursuits, concluding that fearing God and keeping His commandments is the whole duty of man (Ecclesiastes 12:13). This underscores the ultimate importance of spiritual devotion over material success.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that material possessions are temporary and can distract from spiritual growth. The call to generosity, contentment, and reliance on God's provision is a recurring theme, urging Christians to invest in their spiritual lives and the lives of others. By prioritizing spiritual over material support, believers align themselves with God's eternal purposes and experience the true riches found in a relationship with Him.