What Does the Bible Say About Money?
What Does the Bible Say About Money? The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
Key verse: 1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV)
The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
"For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." — 1 Timothy 6:10 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
Money is one of the most frequently discussed topics in the Bible — Jesus talked about it more than heaven or hell. The often-misquoted verse actually says, 'The love of money is the root of all evil' (1 Timothy 6:10) — not money itself, but the love of it. Money is a tool that can be used for great good or great harm. The Bible teaches several key principles: First, everything belongs to God — we are stewards, not owners (Psalm 24:1). Second, generosity is commanded and blessed — 'Give, and it shall be given unto you' (Luke 6:38). Third, contentment is essential — 'having food and raiment let us be therewith content' (1 Timothy 6:8). Fourth, debt should be avoided when possible — 'The borrower is servant to the lender' (Proverbs 22:7). Fifth, hard work is honored — 'if any would not work, neither should he eat' (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Sixth, tithing and giving demonstrate trust in God's provision (Malachi 3:10). Jesus warned, 'Ye cannot serve God and mammon' (Matthew 6:24), making clear that our heart's ultimate allegiance must be to God, not wealth.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
Discover what the Bible teaches about money, wealth, generosity, and the proper attitude toward possessions.
Key Scripture References
"For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."
"Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Is Tithing?
Tithing is the practice of giving a tenth (10%) of one's income to God, rooted in Old Testament law and reflected in New Testament generosity.
What Does the Bible Say About Work?
The Bible presents work as a God-given calling, not a curse — believers are to work diligently as unto the Lord, finding purpose and dignity in honest labor.
What Does the Bible Say About Contentment?
True contentment comes not from circumstances but from trusting in God's sufficiency and finding satisfaction in Christ alone.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside 1 Timothy. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read 1 Timothy on day 344 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About Money?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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