Consumerism is generally defined as the acquisition of goods and services in excess of one’s needs. In a consumerist society, people often buy things not because they need them, but because owning certain products and brands is seen as desirable. Consumerism is often driven by advertising and marketing campaigns that encourage people to purchase more and newer items, even if their current possessions are still functional. This constant drive to acquire more can lead people into debt, distract them from more important aspects of life, and damage the environment through overproduction and waste. But what does the Bible have to say about consumerism and materialism?
Contentment Versus Desire for More
A major theme throughout the Bible is the importance of being content with what one has, rather than constantly desiring more possessions and riches. For example, Philippians 4:11-12 says “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” (ESV)
Hebrews 13:5 likewise instructs, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'” (ESV) Rather than focusing on accumulating more wealth and possessions, the Bible encourages finding contentment and security in God’s presence and provision.
The Dangers of Loving Money
Consumerism is often fueled by a love of money and the belief that buying more things will make one happier. But the Bible warns about the dangers of loving money. 1 Timothy 6:10 famously states that “…love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” (ESV) When money and possessions become too important, people are more prone to greed, envy, deceit, and even exploiting others.
Jesus himself warned against becoming too attached to money and possessions. In Matthew 6:24 he taught, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (ESV) The constant desire for more possessions can become idolatrous if it takes priority over God.
A Biblical View of Possessions
While consumerism teaches that we should acquire and accumulate as much as possible, the Bible encourages a much more moderate view of possessions. 1 Timothy 6:7-8 reminds us, “For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” (ESV) Our material goods are temporary, so we should be content when our basic needs are met.
The Bible does not condemn possessions altogether, but it does warn against loving them too much or trusting in them over God. Psalm 62:10 says, “If riches increase, set not your heart on them.” (ESV) Material things are uncertain and can disappear quickly. Our security should be founded in God, not earthly wealth.
Avoiding Debt
Overspending driven by consumerism often leads people into significant debt. The Bible strongly cautions against debt, aside from certain necessary loans like mortgages. Romans 13:8 says, “Owe no one anything, except to love each other…” (ESV) While reasonable lending practices are not forbidden, Scripture encourages living within your means to avoid becoming trapped by debt.
Proverbs 22:7 warns that, “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” (ESV) Becoming overwhelmed by debt puts you at the mercy of creditors. Scripture advocates avoiding debt whenever possible to maintain self-control and freedom.
Sharing With Others in Need
Consumerism encourages acquiring more and more for yourself. But Jesus and the Bible advocate using wealth and possessions to generously help others. Luke 12:33 instructs, “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy.” (ESV) Rather than hoarding possessions, disciples of Christ should be openhanded and willing to share with people facing hard times.
1 John 3:17 also states, “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” (ESV) A consumeristic mindset is often inwardly focused on acquiring for self. The Bible challenges Christ followers to be outwardly focused in generosity.
Stewardship and Accountability
The Bible views all possessions as ultimately belonging to God, since he enables people to obtain wealth. We are stewards charged with wisely managing the resources God grants rather than owners free to use things however we please. Jesus’ Parable of the Talents illustrates this responsibility of stewardship in Matthew 25:14-30.
1 Peter 4:10 declares, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (ESV) Possessings should be utilized to serve God’s purposes through caring for others, not selfish interests.
Moderation in Purchasing
While most purchasing is not forbidden, Scripture promotes practicing moderation rather than acquiring anything and everything possible. Proverbs 25:16 advises, “If you have found honey, eat only enough for you, lest you have your fill of it and vomit it.” (ESV) While honey is sweet, gorging oneself on it can make you sick. Likewise, overindulging in material things often has negative consequences.
Proverbs 21:20 also warns that “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” (ESV) Mindless, excessive consumption and purchasing is portrayed as foolish rather than wise.
Seeking God First
More than prohibiting certain purchases, the Bible emphasizes putting God first above all else, including possessions. Matthew 6:33 instructs, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (ESV) When our focus is on pursuing God wholeheartedly, material blessings will follow as needed.
A consumeristic mindset makes material things the priority. But Christ challenges his followers to flip priorities and make the spiritual preeminent. When our relationship with God is central, consumerism loses its grip over us.
In summary, while Scripture does not condemn all purchasing and possessions, consumerism as an obsessive preoccupation with acquiring more and more is portrayed as spiritually unhealthy and dangerous. The Bible advocates contentment, proper stewardship, giving generously to others, moderation, and seeking God before worldly things.