Does the Bible say that money is the source of all evil?
Q: Does the Bible say that money is the source of all evil, as I've heard people say? I'm not sure I agree. I know money can make people do wrong things, but money also can accomplish a great deal of good, can't it? -- Mrs. L.Q.
A: The Bible is often misquoted at this point, and it's important to see exactly what it says (and what it doesn't say). The Bible doesn't say that money is the source of all evil -- but it does say that money can become a source of evil when we misuse it and make it the object of our love. The exact quotation is found in 1 Timothy 6:10: "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil."
You're right, of course; money can accomplish great good when it's used wisely and compassionately. And this is exactly what the Bible commands us to do. Instead of letting it become a source of pride, we should realize that everything we have comes ultimately from God, and He wants us to be faithful stewards of the resources He gives us. On the other hand, the Bible repeatedly warns us against the dangers of greed and covetousness. Surely the most tragic person who ever lived was Judas, who was blinded by greed and betrayed Christ for 30 pieces of silver.
What place does money have in your life? Do you control it -- or does it control you? The key is to put Christ in control of our lives, and then to place everything we have into His hands. Have you committed your life to Him?
Thank God for the resources He's given you. Then ask Him to help you "to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share" (1 Timothy 6:18).
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(Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.)
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