Unmask Money Deceptions

By Stephen P. Ruff

The Bible has plenty to say about money, and in spite what of some may think, money is not evil. Money is amoral. The potential for evil only exists within the possessor of money. It is not wrong to have it, nor to be rich or possess the things that money can afford.

We know that the Apostle Paul states that the love of money, not money, is the root or cause of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10). He then clearly denounces running after or striving for money.

Christ doesn’t skirt around the discussion about money but comes clean on its realities. Bible examples include those with big money who are being foolish, thieves, the dishonest, and the unhappy. So, conversing with His disciples, Jesus offers a heads up.

Separate from Selfishness

Matthew 19:16-22 describes the rich, young, ruler, with great promise, who receives his call to ministry straight from the lips of Jesus. Yet, he walked away from it — not the riches, but the call of Jesus. He was distressed because he was rich. He was so secure in his wealth, that he couldn’t separate himself from his material goods when Christ called.

One important note, here. This ruler stated that he tithed. Tithing is about our integrity. But it is in the giving of offering, the sacrificial side of benevolence, that we gain power to be free from selfishness. This is how we separate ourselves from earthly possessions.

Stocking up Can Backfire

In Luke 12:16-21 Jesus speaks of the wealthy man who had it all and lived the high life for himself. He took his ease and did nothing to bless others. On the day he decided to expand his ranch and build new and impressive barns, Christ didn’t just call him a fool, He announced it was his final day on earth. And, then he left the stinging memo for all of us, “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”

Broke, Again

Then there’s the son who wished his dad was dead so he could have his inheritance (Luke 15:11-24). Well, dad just gave it to him and let him go. He had a wonderful time until money first, then friends were gone! And when he was back poor again the Bible describes him as, “coming to himself,” and returning to Dad, poor and broke.

So, Christ delivers a Word for us, “It’s hard for a rich man to be saved” (Matthew 19:23). This does not suggest that the rich cannot be saved. It’s just hard! And we might need to put a serious check on seeking after riches. Why? The deceitfulness of wealth chokes the spiritual life, home and family life, relationships, and so much more.

What Do You Really Think?

I know money doesn’t change you, but it clearly reveals what is already inside of us. Need I speak about Ananias and his wife, Sapphira (Acts 5:1-10)? What about Judas, who for money, betrayed his Master and took his own life (Matthew 27:3-5)? What about the payoffs of priests to secure lies against Christ?

The Apostle Paul, speaking to a young preacher said, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition” (1 Timothy 6:6-12, KJV). Contentment is the admonished wealth of the Bible.

Digital image of a Venetian-style mask shape molded or layered by a various pattern of United States of America dollar bills

Someone might say, “I want the money so I can do something great for God.” God is not asking anyone to do something great. He’s calling us to be faithful with what we have, to use it and improve His honor.

Some may say, “I don’t love money.” However, we don’t mind saying how much we love the things that money can do and buy, or the lifestyles it affords. Some literally believe that they will be happier if they had money, or the things which come from having money. But considerable research over the years has shown that, “Money bears an extraordinarily weak and tenuous relationship to human happiness.” Also, “those planning to be another Warren Buffett might benefit from knowing that the man himself has said that he felt just moderately happier than when he did not have billions of dollars in his bank account” (The Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice. Americans & Billionaires Survey. August 2022). Besides, In His first sermon Jesus taught us how to be happy (Matthew chapter 5-7), yet so many regard His blessings lightly for lack of appeal.

Here or There

You are living your life now for this earth or heaven. Riches are what Christ gave up to save us, and He’s saying, “What we give up in this present life is not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall experience with Him in His kingdom,” Romans 8:18. He makes His final appeal in Matthew 16:26, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (NIV).

Stephen P. Ruff is a former editor of Message, and a specialist and speaker in stewardship and social responsibility.

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