|
Something for Nothing
by Pastor Greg Wilson
Work is a God-ordained and honorable activity. God informed man that
he was to earn his keep by the sweat of his brow (Gen. 3:19). Since
this admonition came after the Fall, some have thought that work came about
as a result of man’s sin. This, however, is not the case. Man was specifically
given work to accomplish by God before sin entered into the world (Gen.
2:15). Sin, the Fall, and the Curse removed much of work’s productivity
and joy (Gen. 3:17-19).
The desire for “something for nothing” is at its root sinful rebellion
against God. This desire is nowhere more evident than in the sinful practice
of gambling. In the past this activity was restricted to the saloon, the
back alley, and the bingo halls of apostate churches. Now, however, most
state governments have instituted lotteries.
Lottery tickets can usually be purchased at the corner store, or gas
station. Folks who never thought of gambling before are lured into this
sinful and self-destructive practice. Usually, it is those who can least
afford it that spend the greatest amount of their income on this addictive
habit.
Recently here in Florida, as the state lottery topped 100 million dollars,
folks were absolutely obsessed with the idea of winning the jackpot. Some
who would profess to be “good Christians” could be heard discussing their
chances of winning, and anticipating how they would spend their ill-gotten
gains. No doubt these “good Christians” spent more on the lottery in one
week than they put into the offering plate in one year. I saw one man,
whom I know to be a member in good standing of a big pseudo-fundamental
Baptist Church (BBF), marking his lottery form at the grocery store!
Christian, gambling is sinful rebellion against God, and has no place
in the Christian’s life! Anyone involved in such a practice ought not be
permitted to remain a member of any church that professes to be a true
church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
|
11150 NE 113th Place