Posted: 10/10/07

Gambling

Kerby Anderson

            What does the Bible say about gambling? Actually, the Bible does not directly address gambling. However, we can derive a number of principles from scripture.

First, notice the contrast between the Bible and gambling. The Bible emphasizes the sovereignty of God (Matt. 10:29-30), while gambling is based upon chance. The Bible admonishes us to work creatively and for the benefit of others (Eph. 4:28), while gambling fosters a "something for nothing" attitude. The Bible condemns materialism (Matt. 6:24-25) while gambling promotes it.

Let's also look at the "fruits" of gambling. First, gambling breeds a form of covetousness. The Tenth Commandment (Exodus 20) admonishes us not to covet.  Coveting, greed, and selfishness are the base emotions that entice us to gamble. I believe Christians should be concerned about gambling if for no other reason than the effect it has on the weaker brother and how it will affect the compulsive gambler. State-sponsored gambling makes it harder for the compulsive gambler to reform. Legalized gambling becomes an institutionalized form of greed.

Second, gambling destroys the work ethic. Two key biblical passages deal with the work ethic. In Colossians 3:23-24 the Apostle Paul says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

And in 2 Thessalonians 3:7,10, he says, "For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. . . .  For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: If a man will not work, he shall not eat."

Third, gambling destroys families. Gambling is a major cause of family neglect.  Many of the social costs associated with gambling come from its mindset.  As people get caught up in a gambling frenzy, they begin to neglect their families. As Christians, I believe we must stand against society's attempts to legalize gambling.

            I'm Kerby Anderson, and that's my point of view.

By Kerby Anderson Click here for bio and archived articles