Greed is a sin. The Bible calls greed the "invisible hand." Gordon Gekko, the investor, is a famous example of the invisible hand. Greed helps us survive in a world where resources are scarce. But it is also an evil. Greed leads to other sins. Here are some ways to avoid greed. Read on! But be careful! You don't have to be a greedy person to be a good Christian!
Self-interest is a good thing
The argument that self-interest is a good thing is often misunderstood. Adam Smith, for example, argued that self-interest is good when it serves others. However, in the case of greed, it can compromise loving judgment. In order to balance the conflicting interests of self and others, greed should be limited or even forbidden. In the case of selfishness, it's better to exercise self-control and to refrain from committing crimes.
Love of money is a sin
Augustine defines love of money as a sub-category of avarice. Luther also refers to the love of money in his criticism of the Catholic Church. In his Ninety-five Theses, he cites the power of indulgences as an example of commercial greed by the church. Luther also criticized Jewish money lenders, citing the anti-semitic undertones in their actions.
Self-interest leads to other sins
While it may be tempting to follow a path of self-interest, doing so is a bad idea. Christian ethics is based on serving others, not yourself. Self-interest is the foundation of the sins of greed and avarice. Self-interest is a necessary part of human existence and must be examined carefully if we are to live ethically. In the letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul criticizes this sin, instructing his readers to "count others more important than yourself." In short, we must look beyond our self-interest and to those around us.
The doctrine of Balaam teaches compromise
The doctrine of Balaam is the opposite of the teachings of Christ. It teaches Christians to compromise, to forget their separation from the world, and to become so similar to the unbelieving world that we are indistinguishable from them. Its underlying message is the concept that "a little sin doesn't hurt."
