I learned long ago that what is important to Jesus ought to be important to me. If this principle is true, then we must think intentionally about money, just as he did. If Jesus died to redeem every aspect of us—as we mentioned before—then the gospel affects our pocketbooks. As his gospel transforms our life, he transforms our view of money—and its use.

Did you know that Jesus spoke more about money than any other topic? That’s right. In fact, sixteen of Christ’s thirty-eight parables reference our handling of earthly treasure. In the Gospels, one out of every ten verses when Jesus is speaking addresses money. As John Piper observed, “Jesus spoke more about money than he did about sex, heaven, and hell. Money is a big deal to Jesus.”

I learned long ago that what is important to Jesus ought to be important to me. If this principle is true, then we must think intentionally about money, just as he did. If Jesus died to redeem every aspect of us—as we mentioned before—then the gospel affects our pocketbooks. As his gospel transforms our life, he transforms our view of money—and its use.

So, why did Jesus focus on money? Because money is a gauge, an indicator that reveals a thousand data points about our hearts. Our view of money uncovers our motives, our ambitions, our insecurities, our greed, and our internal value system. Few things reveal our hearts like our money does.

Money can also be corrosive—at least the love of money can be. The love of money will decay our hearts, pollute our ambitions, and stain our Christian lives. Yet, money is also a tool, when rightly utilized, that can bring about much good. Money rightly stewarded can provide for our families, support our churches, bless Christian ministries, care for the needy, and generate a host of other biblical and practical goods.

How then, should we view money? How should we evaluate earthly wealth? What does it mean for the gospel to redeem our pocket books? How can you honor God with your earthly resources? As we consider these questions, know the stakes are high. Remember Billy Graham’s observation: “If a person gets his attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out almost every other area in his life.”

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