What Does the Bible Say About Gambling?
Gambling is a widespread practice, often viewed as harmless entertainment. But is it compatible with biblical principles? Does the Bible explicitly forbid gambling? And should Christians participate in it? Let’s explore what Scripture says about gambling and how believers should approach it.
Does the Bible Specifically Prohibit Gambling?
The Bible does not contain a direct command saying, “Thou shalt not gamble.” However, while gambling itself may not be explicitly mentioned, the principles of Scripture clearly expose its dangers and spiritual consequences.
When evaluating gambling, Christians must consider biblical teachings on stewardship, love of money, contentment, and trusting in God’s provision.
Gambling and the Love of Money
One of the strongest biblical warnings against gambling comes from the Bible’s teaching on the love of money.
1 Timothy 6:9-10 — “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
Gambling often fuels greed and an unhealthy desire for wealth. It promotes the illusion of quick riches while leading many into financial ruin and moral compromise.
Gambling and Poor Stewardship
Christians are called to be faithful stewards of the resources God has given them.
Luke 16:10-11 — “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?”
Money is a resource to be used wisely for God’s glory. Gambling is a form of financial irresponsibility—it wastes resources in the pursuit of personal gain at the risk of loss.
Gambling and Trusting in Luck Rather Than God
Gambling is based on chance and luck, yet the Bible teaches that believers should trust in God for their provision.
Matthew 6:31-33 — “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Gambling reflects a reliance on chance rather than God’s sovereign provision. The believer’s security should come from God, not from worldly schemes to acquire wealth.
Does Gambling Harm Others?
Gambling is not just a personal decision—it affects families, communities, and society. It often leads to addiction, financial loss, and the exploitation of the vulnerable.
Romans 13:10 — “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”
If gambling causes harm to others or fuels industries that prey on the weak, it stands opposed to the biblical command to love our neighbors.
Does Gambling Lead to Sin?
The Bible warns against actions that can lead to sin, and gambling is often tied to covetousness, dishonesty, and greed.
Proverbs 28:22 — “A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty will come upon him.”
Many who gamble develop a heart consumed by financial gain rather than devotion to God. This can lead to idolatry, where money becomes their god instead of the Lord.
Should Christians Gamble?
Based on the biblical principles above, gambling is unwise and spiritually dangerous. While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit it, the effects of gambling—greed, poor stewardship, reliance on luck, and harm to others—are all inconsistent with Christian living.
Questions to Ask Before Gambling:
- Does gambling demonstrate faithful stewardship of my money?
- Does gambling cause me to covet or trust in luck rather than God?
- Will my gambling harm others or cause them to stumble?
- Does gambling bring glory to God?
While the Bible does not give a direct command against gambling, the principles of Scripture clearly warn against its dangers. Gambling promotes greed, poor stewardship, and a misplaced trust in chance rather than in God’s sovereign provision. It can lead to financial ruin, harm to others, and spiritual compromise.
As Christians, we are called to seek first the kingdom of God, be faithful stewards, and trust in Him for our needs. Rather than seeking quick riches, believers should work diligently, live contentedly, and use their resources for God’s glory.