GAMBLING
What Is Gambling?
Gambling may be defined as the willingness to take a risk (a wager) motivated by the desire to get something for nothing.
Gambling, an ancient vice condemned in virtually all societies, is driven by the desire for gain, a lust for excitement, and a passion for combativeness.
To express the matter from another angle, gambling is fueled by covetousness, laziness, and recklessness. Gambling:
Gambling, an ancient vice condemned in virtually all societies, is driven by the desire for gain, a lust for excitement, and a passion for combativeness.
To express the matter from another angle, gambling is fueled by covetousness, laziness, and recklessness. Gambling:
- Violates the principle of responsible stewardship (1 Cor. 4:2; Lk. 16:2).
- It ignores the concept of the "Golden Rule," seeking to take money from others without any exchange of service (Mt. 7:12; cf. 22:39).
- Gambling tends toward addiction; thus, the need for a Gamblers Anonymous (cf. 1 Cor. 6:12).
- This vice has a sordid history and tarnishes the Christian's influence (cf. Rom. 12:17; 1 Tim. 5:14).
- Gambling bears bitter fruit; it often leads to massive debts, theft, and similar problems -- to cover losses. It can lead to poverty, divorce, and even suicide (Mt. 7:16).
The sincere child of God should refrain from gambling in any form or to any degree.
Related Articles
Where Does the Bible Condemn Gambling?
Why do so many Christians label gambling as a “sin” when the Bible doesn’t specifically condemn gambling?
Obsessive PersonalitiesAn obsession is a persistent, compulsive preoccupation with something. It could be a person, an idea, or desire. The New Testament condemns addictive, obsessive behavior as a spiritual abnormality.
Is Gambling a Moral Issue?Is gambling a “moral” issue? Some suggest that it is not; it is merely a pragmatic issue.
New Gambling Studies Highlight Age-old ProblemA recent study reveals the destruction caused by gambling.
Adapted from the book "Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy" by Wayne Jackson
