Jesus’ Lessons on Wealth

Did you know that the Bible contains more than 2,350 verses that relate to money? From Genesis to Revelation, our Scriptures are filled with helpful guidance on how God would have us use our finances. The four Gospels alone contain hundreds of references to money. Jesus’ ministry lasted only three years, yet he talked about money more than he did faith, prayer, and salvation!

The Bible is riddled with passages that challenge us in ways that are at times difficult to understand. When we read the Gospels to learn how to best handle our finances, we often wish we hadn’t turned to such a brutally honest book.

Jesus says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth” (Mt 6:19). Should we not have savings accounts? “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none” (Lk 3:11). Is it not appropriate, then, to have a casual coat and a formal one? A spring and winter one? “Go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven”
(Mk 10:21). I know that I still own many things: clothing, a car, a home, furniture—why haven’t I sold it all yet and given it to the poor if that is what Jesus would have me to do?

In this study, we’ll delve into some of the challenging passages in the Gospels of Mark and Luke that deal with finances. As we go, we’ll search for new and different ways to open our eyes to the message of Jesus and how we should use our resources of time, talents, and—yes—money as he intended us to do.