The issue of money and lifestyle is not a side issue in the Bible. The credibility of Christ in the world hangs on it. “Fifteen percent of everything Christ said relates to this topic – more than his teachings on heaven and hell combined.” Listen to this refrain that runs through all his teachings:

  • “One thing you lack: go sell everything you have and give to the poor, and then you will have treasure in heaven. Then come follow me.” (Mark 10:21)
  • “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God… But woe to who are rich, for you have already received your comfort.” (Luke 6:20, 24)
  • “Those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” (Luke 14:33)
  • “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:25)
  • “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15)
  • “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
  • “Sell your possession and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted.” (Luke 12:33)
  • “Zacchaeus… said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor’… And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house.’ (Luke 19:8-9)
  • “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went out and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matthew 13:44)
  • “[Jesus] saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘I tell you the truth,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others.” Luke 21:2-3
  • “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself and is not rich towards God.” (Luke 12:20-21)

Source: John Piper, Don’t Waste Your Life, p.109-110