As a financial educator and a believer, I often hear the claim that “Jesus spoke more about money than anything else.” In fact, I may have said that a few times in the past… sorry Lord. It’s a statement that has been widely circulated in sermons, financial seminars, and even in the pulpit. But is it actually true? A closer look at Scripture, with proper understanding, reveals a different story. While Jesus certainly spoke about money, wealth, and possessions, His primary focus was on the Kingdom of God and our relationship with Him. However, that does not mean we cannot learn powerful financial principles from His teachings.

What Did Jesus Actually Teach About the Most?

If we study the Gospels carefully, Jesus’ dominant message is about the Kingdom of God. Time and again, He speaks of God’s rule, righteousness, and how people should align their lives with His will. Topics like faith, love, grace, repentance, and eternal life are central to His teachings.

Money and wealth, though frequently mentioned, are often used as illustrations rather than the main subject of His messages. Consider the parables of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) and the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7). These teachings are about faith, redemption, and God’s relentless pursuit of His people, rather than financial management.

Why Do People Think Jesus Spoke About Money the Most?

There are certainly many passages where Jesus addresses financial matters. Approximately 16 out of His 38 recorded parables mention money or possessions. He speaks about giving (Mark 12:41-44), stewardship (Luke 16:1-13), and warns against greed (Luke 12:15-21). Because money is interwoven into so many of His teachings, it’s easy to assume that it was His primary topic.

However, quantity does not always equate to priority. Jesus used money as an accessible analogy because it was something people in every era could understand. He knew that wealth could either be a tool for good or an obstacle to faith. When He warned that “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24), He wasn’t saying that money is inherently evil—rather, He was teaching that our ultimate loyalty should belong to God alone.

What Financial Lessons Can We Learn From Jesus’ Teachings?

While Jesus did not focus exclusively on money, His words offer incredible wisdom for how we should handle it. Here are some key lessons:

1. Money is a Heart Issue

In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This reminds us that our financial choices reflect what we truly value. If we prioritize wealth above all else, it can lead us away from God. But if we use our financial resources wisely and generously, we demonstrate our trust in Him.

2. Stewardship Over Ownership

Jesus’ parables about money often emphasize stewardship rather than ownership. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), He illustrates that everything we have is entrusted to us by God, and we are called to use it wisely. This challenges us to be responsible with our finances—whether through saving, investing, or giving.

3. Contentment is Greater Than Wealth

One of Jesus’ most countercultural teachings is found in Luke 12:15: “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” In a world that constantly tells us to chase more, Jesus reminds us that true fulfillment isn’t found in material wealth but in a life aligned with God’s purpose.

4. Generosity is a Reflection of Faith

Jesus consistently taught the importance of generosity. Whether it was the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44) or the command to give without expecting in return (Luke 6:38), He made it clear that a giving heart reflects a trust in God’s provision. Financially, this means practicing tithing, charitable giving, and helping those in need as an act of worship.

5. Wealth Can Be a Blessing or a Barrier

Jesus never condemned wealth itself, but He did warn against its dangers. The story of the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27) demonstrates how attachment to riches can hinder our spiritual journey. This doesn’t mean that being wealthy is wrong, but it challenges us to ask: Is my money serving God, or is it controlling me?

Final thoughts

While the claim that Jesus spoke about money more than anything else is an exaggeration, there’s no denying that His teachings contain profound financial wisdom. Jesus may not be a financial advisor, but He understood the human heart—and He knew that money would always be a major factor in our lives.

The true lesson from Jesus isn’t just about money management; it’s about trust, priorities, and our relationship with God. Whether we have little or much, we are called to be faithful stewards, generous givers, and people who find our ultimate security not in wealth, but in Him.

So let’s learn from Jesus—not just to be better with money, but to be richer in faith, character, and purpose… and most importantly that He is our Lord and Savior.

When I first began to think seriously about money, I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of financial advice out there. From investment strategies to financial concepts, the options seemed endless and often conflicting. But then, I turned to the Bible—a source of wisdom I’ve relied on for guidance in so many areas of my life—and I was amazed at how practical and profound its teachings on money are.

What struck me most was how timeless and universal the principles of biblical financial stewardship are. They don’t require advanced degrees or intricate knowledge of financial systems. Instead, they offer simple yet profound truths that can help anyone, regardless of their financial status. Here, I want to share why I believe biblical financial stewardship is not just a spiritual ideal but also a practical approach filled with wisdom.

It Starts with Ownership

The first principle of biblical financial stewardship that transformed my thinking was the concept of ownership. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein” (ESV). This reminded me that everything I have—my income, my possessions, even my abilities—ultimately belongs to God.

Recognizing this shifted my perspective. Instead of viewing money as something to hoard or control, I began to see it as a resource entrusted to me. This mindset encouraged me to handle my finances with care and intentionality, knowing I’m accountable for how I use them. It also freed me from the constant anxiety of ownership because I realized I’m a steward, not the ultimate provider.

Living Within Your Means

One of the most practical aspects of biblical stewardship is the emphasis on living within your means. Proverbs 21:20 states, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it” (ESV). For me, this was a wake-up call to practice self-control and avoid the temptation of overspending.

Living within my means didn’t just help me avoid debt; it also gave me peace of mind. I started budgeting, distinguishing between needs and wants, and learning to be content with what I have. Contentment, as 1 Timothy 6:6 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain” (ESV). This principle has kept me grounded, especially in a world that constantly pushes consumerism.

Avoiding Debt

The Bible doesn’t forbid debt outright, but it warns against the dangers of becoming enslaved to it. Proverbs 22:7 says, “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender” (ESV). This wisdom helped me understand the long-term implications of borrowing.

I used to think of debt as a necessary part of life, but the biblical perspective encouraged me to minimize it as much as possible. I started paying off existing debts aggressively and thinking twice before taking on new ones. The freedom I’ve gained from reducing debt is something I can’t put a price on.

Generosity as a Lifestyle

One of the most beautiful and challenging aspects of biblical stewardship is the call to generosity. Acts 20:35 reminds us, “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive'” (ESV). At first, giving felt counterintuitive, especially when I was trying to save and manage my resources. But as I began to practice generosity, I experienced its profound wisdom.

Giving taught me to trust in God’s provision. It also helped me break free from materialism and develop a heart of compassion for others. Whether it’s tithing, supporting a cause, or helping someone in need, generosity has become one of the most fulfilling parts of my financial journey.

Planning and Saving

The Bible also emphasizes the importance of planning and saving. Proverbs 6:6-8 points to the ant as an example of diligence and foresight: “Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest” (ESV). This inspired me to create an emergency fund and start saving for long-term goals.

Planning doesn’t mean I rely solely on my efforts. Instead, it’s about partnering with God in wisely managing what He’s given me. It’s a balance between faith and action—trusting God while also doing my part.

Avoiding the Love of Money

Perhaps the most important principle I’ve learned is to guard against the love of money. 1 Timothy 6:10 warns, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs” (ESV). This doesn’t mean money is bad; it’s about the attitude we have toward it.

I’ve learned to see money as a tool rather than an end goal. It’s a resource that can be used to glorify God, bless others, and provide for needs. Keeping this perspective has helped me avoid the trap of greed and maintain a sense of purpose in my financial decisions.

A Life of Peace and Purpose

Embracing biblical financial stewardship has not only improved my finances but also enriched my life in ways I didn’t expect. It’s given me a sense of peace, knowing I’m managing resources according to God’s principles. It’s also provided a deeper sense of purpose, as I’ve seen how financial faithfulness can make a positive impact on others.

The wisdom of the Bible is timeless, and its principles are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. Whether you’re struggling with debt, trying to save, or looking for a way to give back, I believe biblical financial stewardship offers practical guidance and profound wisdom for anyone seeking to honor God with their finances.

Money has always fascinated me. It’s a tool, a resource, and, when used wisely, a blessing. I’ve spent years guiding people toward financial empowerment, but there’s one biblical story that keeps me grounded: the encounter between Jesus and the rich young man in Matthew 19:16–22.

If you’re familiar with the story, you know it’s a sobering one. A wealthy man approaches Jesus and asks, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Jesus responds by pointing him to the commandments, and the young man confidently claims he’s kept them all. But then comes the challenge:

“If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21)

The rich young ruler walks away sorrowful because, as the passage notes, “he had great possessions.”

When I first read this story, it was easy to think, “I’m not like him. I don’t have great possessions.” But the more I reflected on it, the more I realized how much this story speaks to all of us—regardless of how much money we have.

The Grip of Wealth

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that wealth is more than just money in the bank; it’s anything that takes up residence in our hearts. For the rich young ruler, his wealth wasn’t just a possession—it was his identity, his comfort, and his security.

I’ve asked myself: What’s my version of “great possessions”? Is it my career? My reputation? My financial stability? These aren’t bad things in themselves, but when they start to hold me back from fully trusting God, they become obstacles.

Money as a Heart Check

This story forces us to confront a tough question: If Jesus asked me to let go of something precious, would I? For many of us, money is the ultimate heart check. We work hard to save, invest, and build wealth, but it’s easy to forget that everything we have comes from God and belongs to Him.

As someone who advocates financial literacy, I’ve seen how money can either free us or enslave us. The key lies in our relationship with it. Are we using money as a tool to serve God, or is it subtly becoming our master?

Treasure in Heaven

Jesus’ words about treasure in heaven resonate deeply with me. It’s a reminder that true wealth isn’t measured in pesos or dollars—it’s found in the impact we make and the lives we touch. When we give generously, help others, and prioritize God’s kingdom, we’re investing in something eternal.

This doesn’t mean we should neglect wise financial planning. On the contrary, being a good steward of our resources allows us to give and serve more effectively. But it does mean we need to regularly evaluate our priorities. Are we accumulating wealth for ourselves, or are we using it to glorify God?

Walking Away Sorrowful

The part of the story that haunts me is how the rich young ruler walked away. He wanted eternal life, but he wasn’t willing to pay the price. I often wonder: How many times have I walked away from God’s call because it felt too costly?

As I reflect on this, I’m reminded that following Jesus often requires sacrifice. But every time I’ve let go of something I was clinging to—whether it was financial security, pride, or comfort—I’ve found that God’s blessings far outweighed the cost.

My 2 cents

The Parable of the Rich Young Ruler isn’t just about money; it’s about the condition of our hearts. For me, it’s a reminder to hold everything loosely—my finances, my career, my plans—and to trust that God’s plans are always better than mine.

If you’re on a financial journey like I am, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect. What are you holding onto too tightly? What would it look like to trust God more fully with your resources?

Let’s not walk away sorrowful. Instead, let’s walk toward the joy and freedom that come from following Jesus with everything we have.

What’s your “great possession,” and how can you surrender it to God? I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections.