Biblical Answer

Can Money Become an Idol?

Money can indeed become an idol, as it has throughout history. The Bible warns against the dangers of idolatry, which includes placing one's trust and value in finite things, rather than in God. In the context of money, idolatry occurs when we prioritize wealth, possessions, and financial security above our relationship with God and our fellow human beings. This can manifest in various ways, such as greed, materialism, and the pursuit of wealth at any cost.

The Characteristics of Idolatry

The Bible describes idolatry as a heart issue, where our affections and values are misplaced. When we love and trust money more than God, we become possessed by our possessions, as James K. A. Smith so aptly puts it. This is evident in the way we use money to satisfy our desires, relieve tension, and soothe our physical needs. Satan often exploits this tendency, tempting us to prioritize wealth and material comfort over our relationship with God. Furthermore, the Bible warns against the dangers of coveting, which is a fundamental aspect of idolatry. When we covet what others have, we demonstrate a lack of contentment and a misplaced trust in wealth.

The Consequences of Idolatry

The consequences of idolatry are severe, both in this life and the next. When we prioritize money and material possessions above God, we risk losing our relationship with Him and our fellow human beings. The Bible describes this as a form of spiritual adultery, where we commit spiritual infidelity by pursuing wealth and pleasure instead of God. In the end, our idolatry will be judged, and we will be held accountable for our actions. The Bible warns that our love for money and material possessions will be revealed in the way we treat others, particularly the poor and vulnerable. As followers of Christ, we are called to live differently, prioritizing our relationship with God and our fellow human beings above our love for money and material possessions. By doing so, we can break free from the grip of idolatry and live a life that is truly pleasing to God.