Is playing poker a sin?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible does not say that card games or games of chance such as poker are evil. Instead, the Bible teaches clearly about avoiding the love of money (Matthew 6:24; Hebrews 13:5). Money is not evil; indeed, we can use it to honor God (Proverbs 3:9-10). But the love of money is a root of various kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). The Bible warns against "get rich quick" schemes (Proverbs 3:9-10, 28:22). Those who gain money quickly, as with gambling, tend to waste or spend it more quickly than someone who has worked hard over time to gain what they have (Proverbs 20:21). Wealth does not satisfy (Ecclesiastes 5:10). Scripture teaches us to focus on God’s kingdom rather than material wealth (Matthew 6:19-21), and those who play poker for money may be too focused on money. But the Bible also teaches us that what Scripture doesn’t forbid oftentimes is a matter of conscience, and playing poker fits into this category (Romans 14:1-12). Our true satisfaction should be in our relationship with Christ (Psalm 16:11; John 6:35).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Getting rich quickly often leads to frivolous, hasty spending that is not beneficial (Proverbs 13:11).
• We need to be careful that playing poker for money does not lead us to an ungodly focus on money, which ultimately brings no satisfaction, only a desire for more. Solomon wrote, “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 5:10).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil things and sinful choices (1 Timothy 6:10-11). Playing poker in itself isn’t sinful, but playing poker for money may lead to an excessive focus on money.
• The Bible doesn’t forbid card games, so if someone can play poker without focusing on money or being led to some other sin, other believers shouldn’t condemn it. Some matters are a matter of conscience, and what is right for one person may not be for another (Romans 14:5).
• Even so, believers should always consider how their actions affect others. The apostle Paul wrote, “So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:13) and “Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor” (1 Corinthians 10:24). Our decisions and choices should never cause another believer to sin.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Poker, in itself, is neither good nor evil. However, because of its association with gambling and money, it is important to examine one's own motivations in playing, to carefully decide if poker is an acceptable use of one's time, and to consider the spiritual impact on others when deciding whether to play poker.

If love of money motivates a person to play poker, then it would clearly be wrong for that person. Further, believers should seek to not cause others to stumble or sin because of their choices. Even if you feel poker is fine, there may be times to refrain if and when it would cause someone else to be tempted toward evil.

UNDERSTAND

• Poker, itself, is neither good nor bad.
• Playing poker may develop a sinful love of money.
• Even if our conscience is clear about playing poker, we should refrain from doing it if it would lead a fellow believer to stumble.

REFLECT

• How do you ensure that your activities do not lead you into sin?
• How do you balance your freedom in Christ with your concern for other believers?
• What are some temptations that you have to guard against in your hobbies/activities?

ENGAGE

• What are some biblical principles that address some of the issues that may arise with playing poker?
• How can we help believers stand against temptations associated with games like poker without slipping into legalism?
• How can we model the right attitude and wisdom toward issues that the Bible doesn’t specifically address?