Gambling
- Thread starter jimbo
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Jesuslovesu
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Well there is scripture that talks about when the soldiers casted lots for Jesus clothes.
Faithful Son
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I don't know if gambling is Biblically wrong, but the Bible says in Corinthians 6:9-10
9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals,
10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
A person should watch out that they do not become a swindler or drunkard or reviler, thief or covetour through gambling.
9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals,
10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
A person should watch out that they do not become a swindler or drunkard or reviler, thief or covetour through gambling.
jimbo said:
Greetings in Jesus' Name.
This may be helpful to you....
What The Bible Says About Gambling
I do not know any biblical text which specifically says that gambling is wrong. However, it becomes wrong when it springs from improper motives or manifests lack of self-control. "Thou shalt not covet" is as ancient as the Ten Commandments. (Exodus 20:17) The New Testament also prohibits greed or covetousness, which it classifies as a form of idolatry. (Eph 5:5) "The love of money is a root of all sorts of evil," warns the Apostle Paul -- a warning with implications for many areas of life. (1 Tim 6:10)
Compulsive or immoderate gambling is inconsistent with a Christian lifestyle, which includes working for an honest living, providing for one's own family and giving to those in need. (Eph 4:28; 2 Thes 3:11-12; 1 Tim 5:8) One does not need to open a Bible to know that gambling can be addictive, or to understand the variety of harmful consequences this particular addiction often produces.
Gambling might also betray a lack of trust in God to provide. Seven centuries before Jesus, the prophet Isaiah warned some who had forsaken God, who banquetted in honour of Fortune and offered toasts to Destiny (Isa 65:11, NASB). Both King David of Israel and Jesus Christ himself urge us to concentrate on doing good, assured that God will provide for our actual needs. (Psalm 37:3-5; Matt 6:25-34)
All that said, some people who do trust God and exercise self-control play occasional games of chance or buy a lottery ticket, spending no more than they would on any other form of entertainment. State or local governments which forbid gambling in general often allow official lotteries, or Bingo games sponsored by nonprofit organisations as fundraisers. With regard to such gambling, right-thinking people will examine their motives and conduct themselves responsibly. I respect those who totally abstain, but I cannot condemn the choice of those who, under such restrictions and guidelines, do not.
© 2001 Edward Fudge
In Him
David
There is 2350 verses in our Bible about "stewardship" ($ and possesions). Jesus himself spoke more about this subject than almost any other. In contrast, the Bible contains around 900 verses on "salvation".
Our God IS concerned about how we handle money. He is aware how much of our lives depend on money. He knows that money can take His place in our lives as an object of idolatry. That is why he speaks so much about it.
But in God's ecconomy, all the money in our account is really His money. We own nothing, but rather are appointed stewardship over it. Once you realize that it is God's money and not your own, you start to be more careful how you spend it.
Use this test...If, knowing that it is God's money, you'd be willing to spend it on that while he is standing rite next to you, then it's probably ok. If not, then you better reconsider.
There are several books written about using money the way God intended. Goto your local Christian bookstore and buy your freind one of these. I'd suggest one for yourself as well.
God bless,
Nigh
Our God IS concerned about how we handle money. He is aware how much of our lives depend on money. He knows that money can take His place in our lives as an object of idolatry. That is why he speaks so much about it.
But in God's ecconomy, all the money in our account is really His money. We own nothing, but rather are appointed stewardship over it. Once you realize that it is God's money and not your own, you start to be more careful how you spend it.
Use this test...If, knowing that it is God's money, you'd be willing to spend it on that while he is standing rite next to you, then it's probably ok. If not, then you better reconsider.
There are several books written about using money the way God intended. Goto your local Christian bookstore and buy your freind one of these. I'd suggest one for yourself as well.
God bless,
Nigh
Some verses to concider...
Eph 4:28
IIThess 3:12
Prov 31
Phil 4:6, 19
Psa 24:1
ITim 5:8
2Cor 8-9
Gal 6:6-10
Matt 6:11 ITim 6:8
Ex 20:18 ITim 6:9 Heb13:5
Prov 28:20,22
Prov 13:11
Prov 15:27
ICor 8:9,13
I just finnished a biblical financial study...can you tell? lol
God bless,
NIgh
Eph 4:28
IIThess 3:12
Prov 31
Phil 4:6, 19
Psa 24:1
ITim 5:8
2Cor 8-9
Gal 6:6-10
Matt 6:11 ITim 6:8
Ex 20:18 ITim 6:9 Heb13:5
Prov 28:20,22
Prov 13:11
Prov 15:27
ICor 8:9,13
I just finnished a biblical financial study...can you tell? lol
God bless,
NIgh
Hello jimbo,
Gambling in the strictest sense, is as much as having a false weight in your bag. To entice someone to gain money at the certain loss of another violates virtually every pinciple taught by Christ. It breeds and promotes selfishness, greed and covetousness.
" For many walk, of whom i have told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things" (Phil.3:18-19)
We are told, as believers to live by a standard higher than the world's (Romans 12:2). Also, we are told to do nothing that would give cause for offense or that might credit our ministry (2 Cor. 6:3).
Even if a christian believes that he is free to gamble, the truth is it will cause others to stumble.
We are clearly directed in 1 Corinthians 8:13 to avoid anything that would cause any weaker brother to stumble.
It is also important to remember that gambling can become a mania. You start to trifle with it, and soon it gets a hold of you! It is like the use of drugs and alcohal. The victim begins by insisting that he is in control of the situation and knows just when to stop, but develops such a craving that he is compelled to indulge more and more until he is finally ruined!
God bless you
hadirfuss
Gambling in the strictest sense, is as much as having a false weight in your bag. To entice someone to gain money at the certain loss of another violates virtually every pinciple taught by Christ. It breeds and promotes selfishness, greed and covetousness.
" For many walk, of whom i have told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things" (Phil.3:18-19)
We are told, as believers to live by a standard higher than the world's (Romans 12:2). Also, we are told to do nothing that would give cause for offense or that might credit our ministry (2 Cor. 6:3).
Even if a christian believes that he is free to gamble, the truth is it will cause others to stumble.
We are clearly directed in 1 Corinthians 8:13 to avoid anything that would cause any weaker brother to stumble.
It is also important to remember that gambling can become a mania. You start to trifle with it, and soon it gets a hold of you! It is like the use of drugs and alcohal. The victim begins by insisting that he is in control of the situation and knows just when to stop, but develops such a craving that he is compelled to indulge more and more until he is finally ruined
!God bless you
hadirfuss
Nigh mentioned this verse above, and I have found it to be very helpful in simmilar situations:
Proverbs 13:11 (KJV) Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
The word translated as vainty is translated as fraud, dishonesty, hastily, amoung others in different Bibles. However the Strongs reference for the Hebrew word gives this definition: 1) vapour, breath, and 2) when used as an adverb, vainly.
So, it would seem to me that anything that you gain in a vapor will be gone just as quickly according to God's economy. Lottory winnings, gambling winnings, money from celebrity (in some cases), money stolen, all would seem to fit in that catagory of gained in a vapor, or from vanity.
Hope that helps.
Proverbs 13:11 (KJV) Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
The word translated as vainty is translated as fraud, dishonesty, hastily, amoung others in different Bibles. However the Strongs reference for the Hebrew word gives this definition: 1) vapour, breath, and 2) when used as an adverb, vainly.
So, it would seem to me that anything that you gain in a vapor will be gone just as quickly according to God's economy. Lottory winnings, gambling winnings, money from celebrity (in some cases), money stolen, all would seem to fit in that catagory of gained in a vapor, or from vanity.
Hope that helps.
SpiritLedEd
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I don't think gambling is the issue. Why does your friend love Texas Holdem and how much moiney does he risk as each hand is dealt? If he is lured by large pots, he may enjoy the mechanics of the game, but the love of money is the real issue. He may see Texas Holdem as a chance for a big score that he may not have to report to his wife or to the tax man. 1Tim 6:10 is a good scripture to start with in discussing the issue with him.jimbo said:
SLE
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Taken from the Bible Answers forum
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT...GAMBLING?
The Growing Addiction of Gambling
Studies show that lotteries are the favorite legal gambling game for teenagers. Statistically, one of seven who play will become addicted. But teenagers aren't the only ones affected. One out of 10 adults who gamble will become addicted too. In fact, gambling is the fastest growing addiction in America. Like alcoholism and drug addiction, compulsive gambling is costly to the economy. Families are the ones who suffer the most. Many people feel gambling is only a game that is fun, but the Bible tells us this evil is a terrible sin that will lead to poverty.
"He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him" (Proverbs 28:22).
Gambling in our nation is spreading as the number of states operating lotteries has more than doubled since 1980, making them the ultimate "get-rich-quick" schemes. As gambling spreads to more and more states, Christians need to have the Bible's instruction about this money robber. The Bible declares that it is wrong to bet money on the possibility of becoming instantly rich.
"He who oppresses the poor to get gain for himself, and he who gives to the rich will surely come to want" (Proverbs 22:16).
States who legalize lotteries and gambling are oppressing the poor for gain. According to a 1988 study of the Michigan lottery, that state sells the greatest number of tickets in low-income and ethnic neighborhoods in urban areas. Lottery tickets made available in grocery marts and drive-in markets make it easy for people to purchase these "chances to win the big hit." Some spend money on the lottery tickets instead of groceries for their families. Many compulsive gamblers wreck their lives and their families as they are encouraged to risk money that they usually cannot afford to lose. An estimated 15 million people are compulsive gamblers.
The lie that is used to promote this evil in our society is that legalized gambling doesn't promote crime and will lower taxes. Actually just the opposite is true -- gambling promotes other vices which attract the criminal element. This results in higher, not lower taxes as the cost for additional policing must be increased. Indian reservations and the big gambling centers of Las Vegas and Atlantic City are taking in billions of dollars. Casinos rob those who play the games with them as the odds are stacked 80% to 90% in favor of the casino. Even those that do win big on occasion statistics have proven that within two years most winners have totally spent the money they won.
Proverbs 21:20 says, "There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up."
People who gamble give to the pool of money that composes great wealth. This causes them to give to the rich and as Proverbs 22:16 says "...he who gives to the rich will surely come to want." Our states are also reaping a type of "poverty" where gambling exists because it undermines the American work ethic. The result is lowered productivity, use of work time to gamble, absenteeism, high rates of business failure, and repeated non-payment of loans, mortgages and other financial obligations. Gambling is, to many, a scheme to escape labor.
Some Christians argue that gambling does no harm. However, the scripture is clear that this activity is sinful. Anytime someone is enticed to gain money at someone's else's certain loss, this is definitely not practicing the principals taught by Christ. Also, the practice of gambling takes away from the Bible's principals of economics -- working, saving and giving. Discipline and accountability for spending are ignored. Gambling preys on the weakness of others.
Let me mention here that entering free sweepstakes or drawings are not sinful as they are advertising ploys paid for by the sponsors. They use these to advertise their products while giving their customers a chance to win in a drawing. There is no gambling involved as the participants give no money for a chance to win the prize.
However, many Christians are guilty of supporting lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and even playing at the casinos. Video poker has become so popular it is now referred to as "the crack cocaine of gambling." Some do not realize the gravity of their sin. They justify gambling simply because they have needs that cannot be met through their present earned income. The Lord desires to meet those needs for them and will give them a plan for becoming debt free if they seek him and His economic principles in the Bible.
The Lord can bring deliverance to those caught in this web of compulsive gambling. Through admission of this sin and repentance God will break the bondage of it in those who desire to be set free. Gamblers need love and acceptance but they must repent in order to be free. The Lord loves those who are addicted to gambling and will help all that call upon Him for deliverance.
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT...GAMBLING?
The Growing Addiction of Gambling
Studies show that lotteries are the favorite legal gambling game for teenagers. Statistically, one of seven who play will become addicted. But teenagers aren't the only ones affected. One out of 10 adults who gamble will become addicted too. In fact, gambling is the fastest growing addiction in America. Like alcoholism and drug addiction, compulsive gambling is costly to the economy. Families are the ones who suffer the most. Many people feel gambling is only a game that is fun, but the Bible tells us this evil is a terrible sin that will lead to poverty.
"He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him" (Proverbs 28:22).
Gambling in our nation is spreading as the number of states operating lotteries has more than doubled since 1980, making them the ultimate "get-rich-quick" schemes. As gambling spreads to more and more states, Christians need to have the Bible's instruction about this money robber. The Bible declares that it is wrong to bet money on the possibility of becoming instantly rich.
"He who oppresses the poor to get gain for himself, and he who gives to the rich will surely come to want" (Proverbs 22:16).
States who legalize lotteries and gambling are oppressing the poor for gain. According to a 1988 study of the Michigan lottery, that state sells the greatest number of tickets in low-income and ethnic neighborhoods in urban areas. Lottery tickets made available in grocery marts and drive-in markets make it easy for people to purchase these "chances to win the big hit." Some spend money on the lottery tickets instead of groceries for their families. Many compulsive gamblers wreck their lives and their families as they are encouraged to risk money that they usually cannot afford to lose. An estimated 15 million people are compulsive gamblers.
The lie that is used to promote this evil in our society is that legalized gambling doesn't promote crime and will lower taxes. Actually just the opposite is true -- gambling promotes other vices which attract the criminal element. This results in higher, not lower taxes as the cost for additional policing must be increased. Indian reservations and the big gambling centers of Las Vegas and Atlantic City are taking in billions of dollars. Casinos rob those who play the games with them as the odds are stacked 80% to 90% in favor of the casino. Even those that do win big on occasion statistics have proven that within two years most winners have totally spent the money they won.
Proverbs 21:20 says, "There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up."
People who gamble give to the pool of money that composes great wealth. This causes them to give to the rich and as Proverbs 22:16 says "...he who gives to the rich will surely come to want." Our states are also reaping a type of "poverty" where gambling exists because it undermines the American work ethic. The result is lowered productivity, use of work time to gamble, absenteeism, high rates of business failure, and repeated non-payment of loans, mortgages and other financial obligations. Gambling is, to many, a scheme to escape labor.
Some Christians argue that gambling does no harm. However, the scripture is clear that this activity is sinful. Anytime someone is enticed to gain money at someone's else's certain loss, this is definitely not practicing the principals taught by Christ. Also, the practice of gambling takes away from the Bible's principals of economics -- working, saving and giving. Discipline and accountability for spending are ignored. Gambling preys on the weakness of others.
Let me mention here that entering free sweepstakes or drawings are not sinful as they are advertising ploys paid for by the sponsors. They use these to advertise their products while giving their customers a chance to win in a drawing. There is no gambling involved as the participants give no money for a chance to win the prize.
However, many Christians are guilty of supporting lotteries, bingo, horse racing, and even playing at the casinos. Video poker has become so popular it is now referred to as "the crack cocaine of gambling." Some do not realize the gravity of their sin. They justify gambling simply because they have needs that cannot be met through their present earned income. The Lord desires to meet those needs for them and will give them a plan for becoming debt free if they seek him and His economic principles in the Bible.
The Lord can bring deliverance to those caught in this web of compulsive gambling. Through admission of this sin and repentance God will break the bondage of it in those who desire to be set free. Gamblers need love and acceptance but they must repent in order to be free. The Lord loves those who are addicted to gambling and will help all that call upon Him for deliverance.
A song of an netherland christian band (Make up your mind)
I think the sentence "Your life is not a gamble, where your money plays the lead." is the most important one - The most important in life should not be money, it should be God
ya blesses!
AnNi
I think the sentence "Your life is not a gamble, where your money plays the lead." is the most important one - The most important in life should not be money, it should be God
ya blesses!
AnNi
Mr. Armenian
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I know that this is an old thread - but I'm new here, and wanted to share my opinion.
Gambling - like drugs, or alcohol can lead to addictions, isolation depraved mental wellness, and a bunch of other nasty stuff. I don't think it's fair to say that "gambling is wrong, becuae it leads you down the road of evil - this evilness can kill you". By that token, I say you shouldn't eat peanut butter. It cloggs your arteries, and could lead to a heart attack, possibly even death! Everything you do can have grave repercussions.
Now, I have absolutely no qualms with gambling (which is proportionate to your financial situation). I feel that The Lord has no problems with me playing in my weekly poker game. We spend out 10 bucks, have a super time, and noone is hurt. Infact, I made a deal with Christ, that I would tithe 50% of whatever I win. Since this my league started, I have won money in 6 out of 9 weeks, and titheing in every single one of them.
Besides, what is the difference if I spend $10 at the poker table, or $10 at the movies?
Gambling, while it can be destructive, it serves as a form of entertainment.
Gambling - like drugs, or alcohol can lead to addictions, isolation depraved mental wellness, and a bunch of other nasty stuff. I don't think it's fair to say that "gambling is wrong, becuae it leads you down the road of evil - this evilness can kill you". By that token, I say you shouldn't eat peanut butter. It cloggs your arteries, and could lead to a heart attack, possibly even death! Everything you do can have grave repercussions.
Now, I have absolutely no qualms with gambling (which is proportionate to your financial situation). I feel that The Lord has no problems with me playing in my weekly poker game. We spend out 10 bucks, have a super time, and noone is hurt. Infact, I made a deal with Christ, that I would tithe 50% of whatever I win. Since this my league started, I have won money in 6 out of 9 weeks, and titheing in every single one of them.
Besides, what is the difference if I spend $10 at the poker table, or $10 at the movies?
Gambling, while it can be destructive, it serves as a form of entertainment.
Dear Brother Chad,
Thank you so much for sharing this with me. I knew the fact that gambling is satanic, but I didn't know which scripture talks about gambling. Now I'm glad that I can use scripture references to prove that gambling is satanic.
I think these verses will fit with this quote.
Proverbs 9:13-18:
Verse 13: A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.
Verse 14: For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,
Verse 15: To call passengers who go right on their ways:
Verse 16: Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
Verse 17: Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.
Verse 18: But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.
Could you please provide the link to another thread regarding 'Gambling'.
God bless you.
