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A Biblical Theology of Wealth

Josiah Stowe

Updated: Jan 23

Wealth often carries cultural baggage, evoking both admiration and suspicion. In a world where material success is equated with virtue by some and vilified as greed by others, Christians must turn to Scripture for clarity. The Bible offers a balanced, robust view of wealth that recognizes it as a gift from God, a tool for Kingdom work, and a responsibility that carries significant moral obligations.


From a Reconstructionist perspective, wealth is deeply tied to God’s covenantal blessings, human dominion, and faithful stewardship. It is neither inherently evil nor automatically righteous—it depends on how it is acquired, managed, and used. This article explores the theology of wealth, its connection to faithful work, its moral accumulation, its benefits, and the dangers of misusing or idolizing it.


Greg Bahsen notes in By This Standard:

“Material blessings… come from God and are to be used for His glory. They are not to be hoarded selfishly, but neither are they to be despised as inherently sinful."


The Nature of Wealth


Wealth, in its essence, is an extension of human productivity and God’s providence. Scripture frequently ties wealth to God’s blessings, emphasizing that He is the ultimate source of all material prosperity. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us:"You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may confirm His covenant that He swore to your fathers."

R.J. Rushdoony, in The Institutes of Biblical Law, explains that wealth reflects man’s dominion mandate:

"Wealth is a sign of dominion under God, a product of lawful obedience, creativity, and faithful stewardship. It is not an end in itself but a means to advance God’s Kingdom."

Wealth, then, is not a zero-sum game. It is the fruit of human labor and innovation under God’s Law. Through good stewardship, wealth multiplies, benefiting families, communities, and the broader society.



Wealth and Faithful Work


Scripture consistently links wealth to consistent, diligent, and faithful labor. Proverbs 10:4 declares, "A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich." and Proverbs 13:11 says, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle,but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Wealth is not to be pursued through schemes or shortcuts but through hard work, ingenuity, and obedience to God’s commands.

Gary North, in Honest Money, emphasizes the connection between wealth and covenantal faithfulness:

"Wealth is not merely the accumulation of assets; it is the byproduct of ethical action, productive labor, and adherence to biblical Law. It grows in environments where justice, honesty, and responsibility prevail."

Work is not a curse but a calling, an opportunity to exercise dominion and creativity in service to God. Wealth gained through honorable work glorifies Him and testifies to His provision.



Moral Ways to Build Wealth


Reconstructionists stress that wealth must be acquired lawfully and morally. This means avoiding theft, fraud, exploitation, and greed while embracing honest business practices and fair dealings. God’s Law provides the framework for ethical wealth-building:

  1. Honest Exchange: Leviticus 19:36 commands, "You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin." Fairness in transactions reflects God’s justice and ensures trust in economic relationships.

  2. Avoiding Debt Dependence: Proverbs 22:7 warns, "The borrower is the slave of the lender." While debt can serve a temporary purpose, over-reliance on it undermines financial freedom and stability.

  3. Investment and Stewardship: The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) highlights the importance of investing resources wisely. God calls His people to multiply what they have been given, using it for productive and fruitful purposes.


David Chilton, in Productive Christians in an Age of Guilt Manipulators, writes:

"The biblical pattern is one of productivity and multiplication. God’s people are to build wealth not through consumption but through investment, industry, and innovation."


The Good Things Wealth Can Do


Wealth, rightly used, is a powerful tool for advancing God’s Kingdom and serving others. It enables:

  1. Generosity: Wealth provides the means to bless others. Proverbs 11:25 says, "Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." Generosity reflects God’s character and fosters community.

  2. Legacy Building: Proverbs 13:22 declares, "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children." Wealth allows families to create intergenerational stability, ensuring that future generations are equipped to continue God’s work.

  3. Supporting Kingdom Work: Wealth funds ministries, churches, and missions, extending the Gospel’s reach. Faithful stewardship directs resources to where they can have eternal impact.

  4. Economic Growth: Wealth creation benefits society by driving innovation, creating jobs, and improving living standards. As individuals steward resources wisely, communities flourish.


Rushdoony captures this vision:

"Wealth is a tool for dominion, an instrument for building God’s Kingdom on earth. It must be directed toward godly ends, promoting justice, mercy, and the proclamation of the Gospel."


Warnings Against Wealth


While wealth is a blessing, Scripture also warns against its misuse and the dangers it poses.

  1. The Love of Money: Paul’s admonition in 1 Timothy 6:10 is clear: "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils." Wealth must never become an idol or the ultimate goal of life.

  2. Pride and Self-Sufficiency: Deuteronomy 8:17 warns against saying in one’s heart, "My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth." Wealth can tempt individuals to forget their dependence on God.

  3. Gaining Wealth Unjustly: Jeremiah 17:11 declares, "Like the partridge that gathers a brood that she did not hatch, so is he who gets riches but not by justice." Ill-gotten wealth is a curse, not a blessing.

  4. Neglecting Eternal Priorities: Jesus’ parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21) reminds us that earthly wealth is fleeting. Storing up treasures in heaven must always take precedence over material accumulation.



Inspiring a Vision for Wealth


For Reconstructionists, the goal of wealth is not self-indulgence but Kingdom building. Christians are called to grow their wealth wisely, use it responsibly, and remain vigilant against its dangers.


Practical steps for faithful wealth-building include:

  1. Setting Godly Goals: Define financial objectives that align with biblical priorities, such as providing for family, supporting the church, and investing in community projects.

  2. Developing Skills and Diligence: Commit to excellence in work and business, seeking to glorify God through productivity and integrity.

  3. Practicing Generosity: Make giving a regular and joyful part of financial life, reflecting trust in God’s provision.

  4. Teaching the Next Generation: Equip children with biblical principles of money management, ensuring that wealth serves as a blessing, not a snare.


Greg Bahnsen sums it up well:

"Godly wealth is forward-looking, building an inheritance for one’s children and advancing the cause of Christ in the world. It reflects faith in God’s promises and a commitment to long-term faithfulness."


Conclusion


Wealth, when understood through the lens of Scripture, is a gift and a responsibility. It is a means to glorify God, serve others, and exercise dominion in obedience to His Law. By building wealth morally and stewarding it wisely



, Christians can reflect God’s justice and advance His Kingdom on earth. At the same time, believers must guard their hearts against the dangers of wealth—pride, greed, and idolatry. Faithfulness requires vigilance, humility, and a commitment to eternal priorities. As we seek to grow wealth to the glory of God, let us remember the words of Jesus:

"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33). 

May our pursuit of wealth always be rooted in faith, guided by God’s Word, and directed toward His purposes.


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