Topical Bible: Riches: Denunciations Against Those Who: Spend, Upon Their Appetite

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The Bible contains numerous warnings and denunciations against those who use their riches to indulge their appetites, often at the expense of spiritual and moral integrity. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, emphasizing the dangers of prioritizing material wealth and personal gratification over obedience to God and care for others.

Old Testament Warnings

The Old Testament frequently addresses the misuse of wealth, particularly in the context of satisfying one's desires. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature offers stark warnings about the consequences of such behavior. Proverbs 21:17 states, "He who loves pleasure will become poor; the one who loves wine and oil will never be rich." This verse highlights the futility and eventual downfall of those who prioritize pleasure and luxury over prudent living and spiritual devotion.

The prophet Isaiah also speaks against those who indulge in excess. Isaiah 5:11-12 declares, "Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine. They have harps and lyres at their banquets, tambourines and flutes and wine, but they have no regard for the deeds of the LORD, no respect for the work of his hands." Here, the prophet condemns those who are consumed by their appetites, neglecting their duty to honor God and His works.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ Himself warns against the dangers of wealth and self-indulgence. In the parable of the rich fool, found in Luke 12:16-21 , Jesus tells of a man who hoards his wealth, planning to "take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry." However, God calls him a fool, for his life is demanded of him that very night, and his riches are of no use in the face of eternity. This parable serves as a powerful reminder that earthly wealth is fleeting and cannot secure one's soul.

The Apostle Paul also addresses this issue in his letters. In Philippians 3:18-19 , he warns, "For as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things." Paul identifies those who prioritize their appetites as living contrary to the message of the Gospel, ultimately leading to their spiritual ruin.

The Call to Righteous Stewardship

Throughout Scripture, the call is clear: believers are to be wise and righteous stewards of their resources, using them to glorify God and serve others rather than indulging in personal appetites. The Bible consistently teaches that true riches are found not in material wealth but in a life devoted to God and His purposes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Job 20:15-17
He has swallowed down riches, and he shall vomit them up again: God shall cast them out of his belly.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
... youths, and the martyrs, brought down denunciations upon them, and ... she saith miscall
her, and spend what they ... guilty of the blood of those against whom this ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... court and people, and the countless riches which the ... the facts concerning Partukka,
then those concerning Patusharra ... it to hold its own against Nineveh; besides ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm