What Scripture Says About Wealth

Alistair Begg opens the discussion by turning to Paul’s letter to Timothy, where the apostle gives a brief but sharp instruction to the rich: “Do not put your hope in wealth, which is uncertain, but put your hope in God” (1 Timothy 6:6‑7). He also notes Paul’s warning that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10) and that the rich should “give to the poor” (1 Timothy 6:18‑19). These verses frame the biblical view that wealth is neither inherently good nor bad; it is how it is earned and used that matters.

The Rich and the Church: A Call to Humility

In the same passage, Paul speaks to the leaders of the church—elders, deacons, and pastors—about the dangers that accompany wealth. Begg highlights Paul’s instruction that an elder must not be a “lover of money” (1 Timothy 6:3) and that deacons should not pursue dishonest gain (1 Timothy 6:8). The apostle warns that those who are rich can become “arrogant” and “place their confidence in what they have” (1 Timothy 6:11‑16). Begg uses these warnings to illustrate how wealth can create a sense of security that distracts believers from their dependence on God.

Jesus’ Warning on the Uncertainty of Money

Begg turns to Jesus’ teaching in Luke 12 to reinforce Paul’s point. Jesus says, “A man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15‑16) and reminds listeners that “the life of a man is determined by the number of his possessions” (Luke 12:7). These words serve as a reminder that earthly riches are fleeting and that true security comes from a relationship with God, not from a bank account.

Practical Lessons for Christians Today

Throughout the talk, Begg asks listeners to consider how the biblical warnings apply to their own lives. He encourages Christians to view wealth as a tool for service rather than a source of pride, to guard against the temptation to treat others as less valuable because of their financial status, and to remember that the rich have a responsibility to give generously. The discussion ends with a question that invites deeper reflection: “What are wealthy Christians to do? How can we have money without being held by it?”

To hear how these themes unfold and to discover the practical steps Alistair Begg suggests, listen to the full episode of Truth for Life on Money Talk.