Bible Discussion Thread

were in the Bible tells you about gambling,its a sin

Use the SEARCH BOX and type in the word, LOTS or

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It's a form of gambling; it was used to ask God a question.

1Timothy 5:8, please read 1Timothy 5, for context, it's not just talking about immediate family but providing for Aunts.

Titus 1:7, 1Corinthians 4:2, Luke 19, Luke 12, Matthew 25,

Matthew 27:35, John 19:24, Psalms 22:18, Mark 15:24, Luke 23:34, Joel 3:3, Obediah 1:11, Nahum 3:10, Esther 3:7-15, Esther 9:24,

Leviticus 16:8-10, Numbers 26:55,56, Numbers 33:54, Numbers 34:13, Jonah 1:7, Acts 1:26,

Proverbs 16:33, Proverbs 18:18, Luke 1:9,

Dear Tina,

Here's some possible related verses on this page: Link

I don't believe gambling is inherently a sin. the definition is "Wagering of money on a game of chance or event with an uncertain outcome." But there's way more things that fit that description that just pulling a slot machine or playing cards, such as betting your friend a free lunch if you win something, hot dog eating contest, couponing, investing, buying a house, buying a car, protecting against inflation, buying a lottery ticket, staying at a hotel with no online reviews, prize money for local fair contests, all sporting events, spending money on a movie you hope is good. These all fit the definition.

Some of these activites are actually supported by scripture, such as the parable of the talents, not burying our money, but investing wisely. Also not putting a house on sand but solid ground, being responsible and prudent.

But the Bible doesn't specifically say gambling is a sin, I believe its just tradition from fundamentalists who assumed that, similar to dancing. But what is clearly defined as sin is if we make something an idol and put it as a false god above God. Addiction to anything can be a sin, whether gambling, food, alcohol, bad movies, images, sugar, or anything that abuses ourselves (which is like abusing God's creation).

Interesting; in the fact that it came up in discussion in small group tonight. 1 Tim. 5:8 gives us a clue; as to the effect of such action; and states that those who do not care for the needs of their family are worse than an infidel. There is; simply put no specific verse about gambling. But there is the verse that states if we know the right thing to do and don't do it to us it is sin ( James 4:7).

In theory; one could be a genius who can memorize a deck of cards; or who has proven to win more than lose in a particular game; or balance out amounts bet so that in time they are ahead or in the black. If they were willing to provide for others including their own budget and needs by allocating earnings and expenses as one would with any other method of employment and strictly stopped when they had spent the amount allocated; and had enough invested on the side to sustain them; and or other means of income then conceivably they could make such an occupation a career or side job. Most casinos; of course would tire having losses themselves with such individuals present at their establishment.

The temptations for overspending; greed; and the other vices such as drinking; and pornography so often available at such establishments; and not doing such things around others who have an addiction to gambling would be very hard to avoid. The specific question of someone with an offering made under gambling raises these issues. The vast majority of those who play games of chances are from those who are at best seduced by the world; and are likely to be ensnared while they systematically destroy their lives and that of their family. There is the warning of a "double minded man" being unstable in all his ways ( James 1:8). We cannot love both God and mammon according to Christ. I cannot see how such an occupation can be an effective witness; nor how it can demonstrate trusting God to provide for our needs; even if it isn't specifically listed as a sin.