Covetousness
Covetousness in the Bible refers to an intense desire or longing for something that belongs to someone else, often accompanied by a sense of greed or envy. The concept is prominently addressed in the Tenth Commandment, which states, "You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor" (Exodus 20:17, NIV). This command highlights the moral and ethical implications of harboring such desires, emphasizing that covetousness can lead to actions that violate the rights of others.In the New Testament, covetousness is further condemned as a serious sin. For instance, in Colossians 3:5, Paul urges believers to "put to death" whatever belongs to their earthly nature, which includes covetousness, described as idolatry. This connection suggests that coveting can lead one away from worshiping God and toward the worship of material possessions or status. Additionally, Jesus warns against the dangers of covetousness in Luke 12:15, where he states, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions." Therefore, in biblical terms, covetousness is not only an internal desire but also a spiritual issue that can have profound moral implications.
Covetousness11
Luke 12:15
By Chuck Smith0MAT 6:19LUK 12:15Chuck Smith addresses the dangers of covetousness, emphasizing that true happiness does not come from material possessions but from a solid relationship with Jesus Christ. He warns against the misconception that wealth and possessions guarantee contentment, highlighting the importance of prioritizing relationships and health over material gain. Smith illustrates that a right relationship with Jesus leads to improved family dynamics and overall life satisfaction. He concludes by urging listeners to measure their worth not by earthly treasures but by their richness toward God.
The Folly of Laying Up Treasure for One's Self and Not Being Rich Toward God Luke 12:13-21
By R.A. Torrey0MAT 6:19LUK 12:15R.A. Torrey emphasizes the folly of accumulating wealth solely for oneself while neglecting to be rich toward God, as illustrated in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13-21. The sermon explores the dangers of covetousness, highlighting how the rich man's focus on material possessions blinded him to the true needs of his soul and the reality of his mortality. Torrey warns that earthly riches cannot provide true peace or life, and ultimately, one cannot take their wealth with them after death. The preacher calls for a reevaluation of priorities, urging believers to invest in eternal treasures rather than temporary gains. The message serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God rather than the accumulation of wealth.
Covetousness ~ James 4v1-10
By William MacDonald1.1K42:52JAS 4:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the source of conflicts and battles among people, as mentioned in James chapter 4, verses 1 and 2. He emphasizes that these conflicts often arise from selfish desires and lusts within individuals. The preacher gives an example of a missionary study class where a young man passionately spoke about world evangelism, but was abruptly cut off by the chairman. Despite this interruption, the young man's prayer revealed his deep concern for the world's needs. The sermon concludes by highlighting the importance of not being friends with the world, as it is in opposition to God.
That Golden Devil
By Thomas Brooks0PRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:91TI 6:17HEB 13:5JAS 4:3Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of covetousness, describing it as a 'golden devil' that can lead to spiritual ruin, much like Judas Iscariot, who despite his outwardly righteous life, was ultimately destroyed by his greed. He emphasizes that even the most seemingly righteous actions can be rendered meaningless if one harbors the sin of covetousness in their heart. Brooks highlights the destructive nature of the love of money, which can lead individuals away from their faith and into a life of grief and temptation.
Covetousness, the Sin of Our Time
By Stephen Jones2.1K48:16DEU 5:211TI 6:6In this sermon, Dr. Stephen Jones addresses the sin of covetousness, which he believes is prevalent in our society. He emphasizes the importance of contentment and godliness, stating that these qualities bring great gain. Dr. Jones shares personal experiences that highlight the excessive consumerism and materialism in our culture. He also references a mission trip to Mexico, where he witnessed the stark contrast between the living conditions of the people there and the abundance of consumer products in a Walmart store.
Contentment - Ii Kings 5
By Phil Beach Jr.3343:512KI 5:20PRO 5:15ROM 12:1PHP 4:12HEB 13:5Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of contentment through the story of Gehazi in II Kings 5, illustrating how discontentment can lead to spiritual ruin. He highlights that true contentment is found in abiding in the secret place of the Most High God, where one can experience peace and fulfillment in Christ. Gehazi's covetousness and pursuit of material gain serve as a warning against the dangers of discontentment that lurk within all believers. The preacher calls for honesty and humility in recognizing our own struggles with contentment and encourages the congregation to seek satisfaction in their relationship with God rather than in worldly desires.
(Gaining God's Approval) 8. the Testing of Elisha and Gehazi
By Zac Poonen0GEN 28:19JOS 5:8JOS 6:201KI 19:192KI 2:12KI 5:27PRO 10:22MAT 3:131TI 6:10HEB 10:20Zac Poonen explores the contrasting lives of Elisha and Gehazi, emphasizing Elisha's faithfulness and persistence in seeking God's highest calling, which led to his anointing, while Gehazi's unfaithfulness and greed resulted in his downfall. Elisha's journey through Gilgal, Bethel, Jericho, and ultimately Jordan symbolizes the stages of spiritual growth and the tests believers face in their faith. Gehazi's failure to resist temptation and his pursuit of material wealth serve as a warning against covetousness and the consequences of prioritizing earthly gain over spiritual integrity. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's tests in our lives and the need to remain steadfast in our commitment to Him. Ultimately, Poonen calls believers to seek God's approval and blessings rather than the fleeting riches of this world.
I Bequeath My Pastor's Soul to the Devil
By Thomas Brooks0ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:9HEB 13:5JAS 4:41JN 4:5Thomas Brooks delivers a powerful sermon on the dangers of covetousness, labeling it as explicit idolatry and a pervasive sin that has infected all levels of society. He emphasizes that a covetous person places their love and trust in worldly riches, neglecting God and spiritual matters, which ultimately leads to ruin. Brooks illustrates this with a poignant story of a greedy banker who, on his deathbed, bequeaths his soul and those of others to the devil due to their failure to recognize the spiritual dangers of their worldly pursuits. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of prioritizing material wealth over spiritual well-being.
A Common Yet Subtle Sin
By Samuel Logan Brengle0EXO 20:17PRO 28:22ECC 5:10MAT 6:24LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:10HEB 13:5JAS 4:21JN 2:15Samuel Logan Brengle warns against the subtle yet deadly sin of covetousness, which has led to the downfall of many, including kings, apostles, and ordinary people. He illustrates how this sin is often overlooked, yet it has catastrophic consequences, as seen in biblical examples like Lot, Achan, and Judas. Brengle emphasizes that covetousness is not just a personal failing but a societal issue that can lead to the collapse of civilizations. He urges believers to combat this sin through self-denial, prayer, and a focus on Christ, reminding them that true contentment comes from godliness. The sermon serves as a call to vigilance against this pervasive sin that can ensnare anyone, regardless of their status or faith.
2 Peter 2:16
By John Gill0NUM 22:122PE 2:12John Gill discusses the story of Balaam, emphasizing his covetousness and desire to curse Israel despite God's command to bless them. He highlights how Balaam's madness was rebuked by an angel and a speaking ass, illustrating the folly of opposing God's will. Gill draws parallels between Balaam's actions and the behavior of those who act against divine counsel, labeling such actions as madness. The sermon serves as a warning against allowing greed to lead one into sin and disobedience. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of aligning one's desires with God's purposes.
The Plague of Unsatisfiedness
By Thomas Brooks0JOB 27:17LUK 12:15LUK 12:201TI 6:9Thomas Brooks warns against the sin of covetousness, emphasizing that it is a grievous and breeding sin that leads to unsatisfiedness and spiritual ruin. He illustrates how covetousness makes individuals earthly rather than celestial, robbing them of true peace and contentment. Brooks points out that a covetous person is never satisfied, always desiring more, and compares them to a swine, which is of no use while alive. He stresses that the pursuit of wealth can lead to temptation and destruction, ultimately reminding us that true fulfillment cannot be found in material possessions.