Book review of Money in the Bible

by J Pitterson (Author)

Updated at: 07/01/2025

In "Money in the Bible," J. Pitterson offers a fresh perspective on the often-fraught relationship between faith and finances. Contrary to common misconceptions, this book argues that the Bible doesn't condemn wealth but rather emphasizes its responsible stewardship. Exploring biblical narratives from Abraham to Jesus, Pitterson reveals how spiritual and financial prosperity can coexist. The book dismantles the fear surrounding money, guiding readers to understand God's intentions for wealth and how to build financial abundance while maintaining a strong spiritual foundation. Through biblical principles of generosity, stewardship, and responsibility, "Money in the Bible" empowers readers to align their financial goals with their faith, fostering a life of both material and spiritual richness.

4.6 / 41 ratings

Review Money in the Bible

"Money in the Bible" offered a fascinating, if somewhat uneven, journey through scripture's perspective on wealth. I went in expecting a cohesive theological argument about God's view on money, and while the book certainly touches on that, its strength lies more in its compilation and contextualization of relevant biblical passages. The author, J. Pitterson, doesn't shy away from quoting extensively, providing a readily accessible resource for anyone wanting to explore the topic directly from the source material. This makes the book valuable for those who may not be comfortable navigating the Bible independently or who are looking for a convenient collection of relevant verses.

One of my favorite aspects was the way the book challenged conventional misconceptions about wealth in the Bible. It skillfully countered the often-heard notion that the Bible condemns all forms of material prosperity. Instead, it highlighted the many instances where wealth is presented as a blessing, a tool to be used responsibly and generously. The inclusion of stories about figures like Abraham, David, and Solomon, showcasing both their wealth and their faith, was particularly effective in illustrating this point. The book successfully argued for a balanced view, emphasizing that the problem isn't wealth itself, but the idolatry of wealth – the prioritization of material gain above spiritual values.

However, the book's structure also presented some challenges. The heavy reliance on direct quotes, while helpful, sometimes resulted in a somewhat disjointed reading experience. The author's commentary, while present, could have been more substantial in connecting the disparate passages and weaving a clearer narrative. At times, the transitions between verses felt abrupt, leaving me wanting more analysis and interpretation to fully grasp the implications for modern-day believers.

Furthermore, the book's approach to prosperity theology felt slightly ambiguous. While it doesn't explicitly endorse a "name-it-and-claim-it" mentality, some of the interpretations felt close to this controversial approach. This aspect might resonate with some readers but could be off-putting to others who hold more traditional views on wealth and faith. The inclusion of modern-day prosperity preachers alongside biblical figures, as mentioned in some reviews, seems a point of contention, potentially weakening the overall argument for some readers.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "Money in the Bible" is a valuable resource, particularly for its straightforward presentation of relevant biblical texts. It serves as a useful starting point for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the scriptures' perspective on wealth, financial responsibility, and stewardship. While it may not provide a comprehensive theological treatise, its strength lies in its accessibility and its capacity to inspire further exploration and personal reflection on the complexities of faith and finances. Overall, I found the book thought-provoking and recommend it as a supplementary resource for those already engaged in studying the Bible and its implications for modern life. It's not a stand-alone guide to financial success, but a helpful tool for exploring the biblical perspective on wealth, its potential pitfalls, and its potential for good.