What Does the Bible Say About Greed?
Key Scriptures and spiritual guidance on greed
The Bible addresses greed as a destructive trait that goes against God's will. Greed is often associated with a love of money and material possessions, leading individuals to prioritize wealth over spiritual growth and relationships. In Luke 12:15, Jesus warns against greed, stating that life does not consist of an abundance of possessions. Greed can lead to discontentment, injustice, and a lack of generosity towards others. Proverbs 15:27 highlights that greedy individuals bring trouble to their families, while 1 Timothy 6:10 famously states that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.
Bible Verses About Greed
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, 'Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”
Proverbs 15:27
“Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.”
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Colossians 3:5
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”