Biblical Answer

The Bible's Teaching on Gambling

The Bible does not explicitly condemn gambling as a social evil. However, it does provide guidance on the underlying attitudes and behaviors that are often associated with gambling. One key issue is the concept of sovereignty, which is closely tied to the idea of trust. The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all creation, and that He is the only one who truly knows the future (Romans 11:33-36). When we gamble, we are, in effect, saying that we can control the outcome of events, which is a form of idolatry. This is because we are placing our trust in chance rather than in God's sovereignty.

Furthermore, the Bible warns against covetousness and the pursuit of wealth at any cost (1 Timothy 6:10, Luke 12:15). Gambling often fosters a mindset of covetousness, as individuals seek to acquire wealth through luck rather than hard work. This can lead to a focus on material possessions rather than spiritual growth and relationships. Additionally, the Bible emphasizes the importance of giving and generosity, which is often undermined by the mentality of gambling (Proverbs 19:17, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

In light of these biblical principles, it is reasonable to conclude that Christians should approach gambling with caution. While the Bible does not explicitly condemn gambling, it does provide guidance on the underlying attitudes and behaviors that are often associated with it. Christians should strive to cultivate a mindset of trust in God's sovereignty and to prioritize spiritual growth and relationships over material possessions. This may involve abstaining from gambling altogether or, at the very least, approaching it with a sense of caution and discernment. Ultimately, the decision to gamble or not should be guided by a desire to please God and to live a life that is pleasing to Him.