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Would Jesus Endorse a Lottery? #2 By: Garland M. Robinson |
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Would Jesus Endorse a Lottery? #2 By: Garland M. Robinson |
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A lottery is sinful because it sets an evil example. We are to "recompense to no man evil for evil, provide things honest in the sight of all men" (III John 1:11). Christians are to be the light of the world, not darkness.
A lottery is sinful because it joins you with evil companions. "Be not deceived: evil communications (companionships) corrupt good manners (morals)" (I Corinthians 15:33). Gambling is the very stock and trade of organized crime which preys on people who are willing to squander their living. Is this the company you desire to keep?
A lottery is sinful because it leads to other sins. "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived" (II Timothy 3:13). Gambling leads to dishonesty, immorality, theft, lying and fraud. Such crimes far exceed the national average in those areas where gambling is present.
A lottery is sinful because it destroys the home and family. "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel" (I Timothy 5:8). The addictive nature of gambling has caused many to get into debt so deep they lose everything they have, even their family. Any activity which results in the destruction of the home cannot be right.
A lottery is sinful because it violates the first and great commandment to love God supremely. "Jesus said...Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind" (Matthew 22:37). "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon" (Matthew 6:24). Gambling becomes the master and enslaves millions. You can't serve God and riches (wealth) at the same time. It takes you away from God.
"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matthew 22:39). How can one love, which means to "seek the best interest of," his fellowman while trying to gain what is his?