The Bible states, "For the love of money is the root of all evil" 1 Timothy 6:10. It does not say that money is the root of all evil, but the love of money is the root of all evil. Many of today's Christians will defy all natural law, human logic and biblical doctrine to justify the innocents of earthy riches and defend why their pastor drives a Bentley, lives in a multimillion dollar home, and travels in a personal jet.

People believe that there is nothing wrong with being rich and prosperous beyond the average person's wildest dream, however, there is something wrong with it. In fact, the rich were not spoken of to highly by Jesus during his ministry, but were always warned of hording money while neglecting their salvation. Some would reason that a person could have both, but that thinking also defies biblical reasoning.

"Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 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 6:5-9.

According to the above words, it would be better to be content with food and raiment than to be rich because riches lead to many temptations. But how many of today's Christians actually quote and practice this logic. They believe, do, and teach the exact opposite and so do many church leaders. To think that money and riches is innocent in the fight for salvation is ludicrous and hurtful to the soul.

What is so disheartening to see are church members who throw money on the pulpit while the pastor is preaching? This show is displayed much on televangelist ministries and is an abomination in the face of the above concept of scripture. However, as the scripture says, it is the love of money, not the actual money, which causes men to err in faith.

People believe that giving money to the church or to the work of the preacher somehow solves problems and seals any wrongdoing. In fact, preachers teach a scripture from Ecclesiastes 10:19, which read: "A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things." Little do people realize that the chapter from Ecclesiastes 10 speaks particularly about being wise and not foolish, however, preachers will not reveal this concept.

The reason they do not teach otherwise but leave the congregation believing that money is the answer, is because of the spirit of the love of money. And people would rather believe this spirit for the same reason.

Living in a country such as America while attempting to live a Christian life is contradictory at most. American society exalts riches and prosperity and the churches have adapted to the same mindset and therefore apply no wrongs to riches. Even though the Bible clearly discourages riches and warns against believing in the power of money, today's Christians will do only what their environment dictates, being led by the evils and love of money.

© 2004 by CR Hamilton