THE DANGERS OF GREED AND MATERIALISM
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 12:15 – “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”
Supporting Texts: 1 Timothy 6:6-10, Matthew 6:19-21, Colossians 3:5
INTRODUCTION
Greed and materialism are subtle traps that can enslave the soul. Many people pursue wealth and possessions at the expense of their spiritual well-being, relationships, and eternal destiny. The Bible warns us against the love of money and the dangers of placing material things above God. In this study, we will examine the consequences of greed and materialism and how to overcome them.
1. SPIRITUAL DECLINE
a) Greed pulls the heart away from God
Greedy individuals prioritize wealth over their spiritual growth (Luke 16:13).
b) Materialism breeds idolatry
When possessions become the focus, God is replaced (Colossians 3:5).
c) It leads to a lack of faith
Trust in riches instead of God results in spiritual weakness (Mark 10:24-25).
d) It creates a false sense of security
Riches cannot provide eternal security (Proverbs 11:28).
e) Biblical Example: The rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-22) – He loved his wealth more than God and missed eternal life.
2. LACK OF CONTENTMENT
a) Greed fuels dissatisfaction
No amount of wealth ever satisfies a greedy heart (Ecclesiastes 5:10).
b) Materialism leads to anxiety
The desire for more can cause stress and worry (Philippians 4:6-7).
c) Contentment is great gain
Godliness with contentment brings peace (1 Timothy 6:6).
d) A grateful heart overcomes greed
Gratitude helps us appreciate what we have (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
e) Biblical Example: Achan (Joshua 7:20-26) – His greed led to his downfall and destruction.
3. BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS
a) Greed causes selfishness
It makes people prioritize wealth over loved ones (James 4:1-3).
b) It leads to betrayal
Some betray friends and family for money (Proverbs 15:27).
c) Materialism creates envy and strife
People fight over possessions (1 Corinthians 3:3).
d) It destroys marriages
Financial greed often leads to divorce and family breakdown (1 Timothy 6:9).
e) Biblical Example: Judas Iscariot (Matthew 26:14-16) – He betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
4. MORAL CORRUPTION
a) Greed leads to dishonesty
Many lie and cheat to acquire wealth (Proverbs 11:1).
b) It promotes unethical practices
Corruption thrives where greed is unchecked (Micah 6:10-12).
c) It results in oppression of the poor
The greedy exploit the weak (James 5:1-6).
d) The love of money is the root of evil
It makes people do terrible things (1 Timothy 6:10).
e) Biblical Example: Gehazi (2 Kings 5:20-27) – His greed led to leprosy.
5. LOSS OF ETERNAL FOCUS
a) Greed makes people chase worldly wealth
They forget about heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).
b) It blinds people to true riches
Spiritual riches are far more valuable than money (Luke 12:21).
c) It prevents sacrificial giving
Greedy people struggle to give to God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
d) It leads to eternal destruction
Those who prioritise money over God lose their souls (Matthew 16:26).
e) Biblical Example: The rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) – The rich man’s greed led to his eternal suffering.
CONCLUSION
Greed and materialism are dangerous traps that can lead to spiritual decline, broken relationships, moral corruption, and eternal loss. True contentment comes from trusting in God, not wealth. We must guard our hearts and pursue righteousness over riches.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, deliver me from the spirit of greed and materialism.
2. Father, help me to seek first Your kingdom and righteousness.
3. Lord, give me a heart of contentment and gratitude.
4. Holy Spirit, teach me to trust in God, not in wealth.
5. Father, remove every selfish desire from my heart.
6. Lord, help me to be a cheerful giver in Your kingdom.
7. Break every yoke of financial dishonesty in my life.
8. Lord, help me to store treasures in heaven, not just on earth.
9. Father, deliver me from the love of money and its dangers.
10. Lord, let me never compromise my faith for material gain.
