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Is Gambling a Sin?
The Bible’s answer
Although the Bible does not discuss gambling in detail, we can discern from Bible principles that God views gambling as a sin.—Ephesians 5:17.a
Gambling is driven by greed, which God hates. (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Ephesians 5:3, 5) Gamblers hope to gain money through the losses of others, but the Bible condemns coveting other people’s possessions.—Exodus 20:17; Romans 7:7; 13:9, 10.
Gambling, even for small amounts, can arouse a destructive love of money.—1 Timothy 6:9, 10.
Gamblers often rely on superstitions or luck. However, God views such beliefs as a form of idolatry, which is incompatible with his worship.—Isaiah 65:11.
Rather than promote a desire to get something for nothing, the Bible encourages hard work. (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ephesians 4:28) Those who follow the Bible’s advice can “eat food they themselves earn.”—2 Thessalonians 3:10, 12.
Gambling can arouse an unhealthy competitive spirit, which is disapproved in the Bible.—Galatians 5:26.
a Gambling is specifically mentioned in the Bible only in connection with the Roman soldiers who cast lots, or “gambled,” for Jesus’ clothing.—Matthew 27:35; John 19:23, 24; Contemporary English Version; Good News Translation.
