These words are mentioned in 1 Timothy 3:3,8; Titus 1:7,11; and1 Peter 5:2. The main topic of discussion in these Scriptures is the qualification of leaders in the church. The interpretation of these words is necessary because we do not normally use the phrase of filthy lucre. The intent is to say that we must be careful not to seek gain financially in an illegitimate fashion. The implication is that money must not become too important to a believer. We might ask if we have the money or does the money have us? Obviously, honesty is the best policy.
The Bible does not condemn prosperity. There are those in the Bible who were very wealthy. The difference is that God used that person and his wealth in a spiritual, beneficial way. Naturally, we must be careful that God oversees how we gain our money and how we spend our money. It is a serious matter if we put financial success over our relationship with God and loved ones. The Bible is very specific that we are to help those in need and give to the church with a cheerful heart.
We must ask ourselves how much time out of our day is spent seeking the benefits of money. Does our venture for success cause us to ignore church functions and family interactions? Perhaps there are those who rely on us for things other than cash. They may need us for an emotional or spiritual encouragement. They may need us to be a person that could deliver good advice in a tenuous situation. In short, money and its acquisition cannot be allowed to override or replace people, our witness for Christ, or service to God and the church.
Christian Writer 