How Many Times Did Jesus Talk About Money?
Money is something that occupies many people’s minds. Even in biblical times, finances were an important aspect of daily life. That’s why it’s interesting to explore what Jesus himself had to say about money and possessions.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Jesus talked about money around 29 times across all four gospels.
In this comprehensive article, we will analyze all instances where Jesus addressed topics related to money and possessions. We’ll explore the context of each passage, the significance of His words, and what we can learn from them today.
An Overview of Jesus and Money
Jesus’ attitude toward money and possessions
Jesus often warned about the dangers of wealth and possessions. He cautioned that money can become an idol that distracts people from pursuing God and righteousness (Matthew 6:24). Jesus emphasized that material wealth is temporary and uncertain, whereas spiritual wealth in God’s kingdom is everlasting (Matthew 6:19-21).
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructed his followers not to store up treasures on earth but to store up heavenly treasures instead. He challenged them to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, rather than worrying about material needs (Matthew 6:25-34).
Jesus wanted people to trust God to provide their daily bread.
Jesus demonstrated a lifestyle of simplicity, self-denial, and service to others. Although he had divine authority, Jesus took on the form of a servant (Philippians 2:6-8). He had no place to lay his head (Luke 9:58) and depended on the generosity of his followers and friends like Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (John 12:1-3).
How Jesus’ teachings differed from prevailing views
In Jesus’ day, wealth was often viewed as a sign of God’s favor and blessing. The prevailing belief was that riches resulted from one’s righteousness. By contrast, Jesus taught that all people regardless of social status or wealth are equal in God’s eyes.
He often ministered to outcasts like lepers, prostitutes, and tax collectors without showing partiality (Luke 5:12-16, 7:36-50, 19:1-10).
While some Jewish religious leaders scorned sinners and those living in poverty, Jesus showed them love and compassion. He brought a message of forgiveness, restoration, and the inclusive invitation for all to enter God’s kingdom (Luke 4:18-19, 15:11-32).
The social norms said that possessions and money signified God’s approval. But Christ’s teachings stated that material wealth can often become a barrier to genuinely following Him (Mark 10:17-27). He flipped many prevailing assumptions upside down.
Jesus also differed from popular views because he elevated the poor and needy. He said the poor are blessed because the kingdom of God belongs to them (Luke 6:20-21). Jesus taught the vital importance of generosity in giving to the poor (Luke 12:33, 14:12-14).
By contrast, society often oppressed and despised those in poverty.
Detailed Analysis of Jesus’ Words on Money
The peril of riches
Jesus cautioned about the spiritual dangers of wealth numerous times. He said it is very hard for a rich person to enter God’s kingdom (Matthew 19:23-24), comparing it to a camel going through a needle’s eye.
Riches can distract people from pursuing God, leading them to trust in money rather than having faith in God (Matthew 6:24). The lure of money can deprive people of eternal life if it becomes their master (Luke 16:13-14).
Jesus illustrated this via a parable of a rich fool who stored up wealth but had no riches toward God (Luke 12:16-21).
Giving to others and God
Jesus encouraged generosity and giving money to help the poor and needy. He praised a poor widow who gave two small copper coins, worth a penny, as a gift in the temple, commending her heart of sacrifice (Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4).
When a rich young ruler asked what he must do to have eternal life, Jesus told him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him (Matthew 19:16-22). Jesus noted whatever we do for the least of His brothers, feeding the hungry and clothing the naked, we do for Him (Matthew 25:31-46).
Trusting in money versus trusting in God
Jesus made clear we cannot serve both money and God simultaneously (Luke 16:13). We will love one and hate the other. The heart tends to follow where one puts their treasure (Matthew 6:21). He urged people not to worry about money or possessions, but to instead seek God’s kingdom and trust that He will provide for our needs (Matthew 6:25-34).
The blessing of life is not found in having an abundance of possessions (Luke 12:15). Our security should be founded in God rather than riches (1 Timothy 6:17).
Taxes and Caesar
When asked whether it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus replied, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:15-22, Mark 12:13-17, Luke 20:20-26). He affirmed paying taxes though the money would go to a secular government, saying subjects are obliged to human authorities instituted by God (Romans 13:1-7).
However, He distinguished the higher obligation to prioritize God over human rulers when forced to choose between the two.
Other notable passages
Jesus noted how the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). He overturned merchants and money changers’ tables in the temple due to making His house of prayer into a den of thieves (Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:15-19, Luke 19:45-48).
After feeding thousands with a boy’s bread and fish, He refused to become an earthly “bread king” who would only give temporary physical sustenance rather than eternal spiritual nourishment (John 6:5-15, 26-27).
Overall, Jesus spoke about money over 250 times in the New Testament scriptures with warnings and wisdom.
Applying Jesus’ Principles on Money Today
Jesus spoke extensively about money and possessions in the Bible, challenging people to rethink their relationship with material wealth. Though times have changed, Jesus’ wise principles on money are still very applicable today.
Give Generously and Cheerfully
Jesus encouraged giving to those in need with a spirit of joy, not obligation (2 Corinthians 9:7). In our prosperous society, we can still heed Jesus’ call by giving generously to charitable causes and those less fortunate. Research shows that givers are happier people.
The more we give, the more blessings we receive.
Seek True Riches, Not Material Wealth
Jesus warned against storing up earthly treasures that do not last, instead urging us to store up heavenly treasures which are eternal (Matthew 6:19-21). Though financial stability is important, we should not make it our sole pursuit.
True riches involve investing in family, community, spiritual growth, and making the world a little better.
Watch Out for the Dangers of Wealth
Jesus spoke of how hard it is for the rich to enter God’s kingdom (Mark 10:23-25). Wealth often leads to greed, pride, self-sufficiency apart from God, and ignoring the poor. In our consumeristic culture, we must check our motives and not let the pursuit of nicer possessions capture our hearts.
Use Money as a Tool for Good
Money is meant to be used for provision and blessing, not hoarded selfishly. Jesus said “much is required from those to whom much is given” (Luke 12:48 NLT). Those blessed with more financial resources have a responsibility to generously share and help those in need.
When we do, we reflect God’s generous heart.
In an age of constant financial pressures and temptations for more, Jesus’ principles remind us there is great freedom and contentment when we loosen our grip on worldly wealth. As we apply these timeless principles today, we can build our lives on true lasting treasure in heaven.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Jesus only directly addressed money and possessions around 29 times, these passages give us profound insights into how God views our finances and material goods. We clearly see dangers like greed and hypocrisy, along with the call to radical generosity.
By thoroughly examining and thoughtfully applying Christ’s words, we can adopt God-honoring perspectives and practices when it comes to our money and possessions today.
