The Dangers Of Greed And Materialism

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.