Wealth

In the Bible, wealth is often seen as a blessing from God, yet it comes with significant responsibilities and potential spiritual dangers. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, were blessed with substantial wealth, which was considered a sign of God's favor (Genesis 13:2; 26:12-14; 30:43). Wealth, however, is not inherently virtuous or sinful; it is the attitude towards wealth and its use that is of concern in Scripture.

Proverbs offers numerous insights into wealth, emphasizing diligence and wisdom as means to acquire it: "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth" (Proverbs 10:4). Yet, it also warns against the pursuit of wealth for its own sake: "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself" (Proverbs 23:4).

The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus teaching about the dangers of wealth. In the Parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus warns against storing up earthly treasures without being "rich toward God" (Luke 12:21). The encounter with the rich young ruler further illustrates the difficulty for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God, as Jesus states, "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" (Mark 10:25).

The Apostle Paul advises Timothy to instruct the wealthy "not to be arrogant, nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God" (1 Timothy 6:17). Wealth should be used for good works, generosity, and sharing, thus laying up treasures for the future (1 Timothy 6:18-19).

Poverty

Poverty is a significant theme in the Bible, often associated with vulnerability and dependence on God. The Law of Moses includes numerous provisions for the poor, emphasizing justice and compassion. For instance, Israelites were commanded to leave the gleanings of their harvest for the poor and the foreigner (Leviticus 19:9-10).

The Psalms and Proverbs frequently highlight God's concern for the poor, portraying Him as their defender: "He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap" (Psalm 113:7). Proverbs 19:17 states, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender" , underscoring the importance of generosity.

In the New Testament, Jesus' ministry is marked by a profound concern for the poor. He begins His public ministry by proclaiming good news to the poor (Luke 4:18) and teaches that the kingdom of God belongs to them (Luke 6:20). The early church followed this example, as seen in Acts 2:44-45, where believers shared their possessions to ensure no one was in need.

James, the brother of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor, warning against favoritism towards the rich and neglect of the needy: "Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him?" (James 2:5).

Throughout Scripture, both wealth and poverty are seen as opportunities to demonstrate faithfulness to God. Wealth is a tool for service and blessing, while poverty is a call to trust in God's provision and the community's compassion.