Jesus’ Confrontations with the Pharisees
“No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. And he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” Luke 16:13-15 (ESV)
We’ve all heard it said that ‘God helps those who help themselves.’ Well, as it turns out, some of the Pharisees like to help themselves…to the houses of widows (Matthew 23:14). Instead of helping said widows to retain their homes they sought to add them to their own portfolios.
Jesus was warning the people about the power that money has over people. In fact, for many, money trumps even God, becoming a god that cannot save those who trust in it. Being the hypocritical know-it-all’s that they were, they turned up their noses at Him. They ridiculed Him.
My grandfather used to warn about gambling. Some people would minimize the danger and say: “It’s just entertainment.” He would reply: “What’s entertaining about playing with a spiritual disease (greed)?” Some say, “Well, it’s only a little bit of money.” If it’s not about the money…leave it out. Just play cards.
This is a serious matter. It can lead to greed, covetousness and other sins. Praise God that He sent His Son to suffer and die to atone for all sins.
Take my silver and my gold, Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect and use Every power as Thou shalt choose.
The Lutheran Hymnal 400:4