Jonah: I believe it’s unchristian for anyone, especially a believer, to be a billionaire. Jesus himself said, “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Wealth can easily become an idol, pulling us away from God. The rich man in Mark 10:25 was told, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” Doesn’t that imply extreme wealth is inherently dangerous?

Carl: I think that perspective overly simplistic. Money itself isn’t evil; it’s the love of money that is the root of all evil, as Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:10. A Christian billionaire can use their wealth for tremendous good—feeding the hungry, funding missions, and addressing global issues. Look at Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy man who provided Jesus’ tomb (Matthew 27:57-60). Wealth doesn’t disqualify someone from being faithful.

Jonah: But it’s not just about how wealth is used; it’s about how it’s acquired. James 5:1-6 warns rich people about hoarding wealth and exploiting workers. Most billionaires gain their fortune through systemic inequalities. By participating in these systems, aren’t they complicit in the very injustices the Bible condemns?

Carl: That’s a fair point, but wealth isn’t always gained unjustly. Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” God can bless hard work and wise stewardship. Moreover, billionaires who operate ethically and give generously can reflect Christ’s call to love and serve others. Look at Zacchaeus in Luke 19:8—he was wealthy, yet when he repented, he used his wealth to restore and help others. His transformation was celebrated, not condemned.

Jonah: Even so, Jesus emphasised living simply and prioritising the kingdom of God. He told the rich young ruler to sell everything and give to the poor (Luke 18:22). While Zacchaeus gave away half his wealth, he didn’t remain a billionaire. Extreme wealth creates inequality and contradicts Jesus’ teachings on humility and reliance on God.

Carl: But Jesus didn’t condemn wealth outright; he condemned its misuse. In Acts 4:34-35, the early church distributed wealth so no one was in need, which suggests that those with means supported others. Imagine if a billionaire followed that model, giving away their wealth to uplift the poor. Isn’t that an example of God’s grace working through human resources?

Jonah: But how many billionaires actually live like that? The pursuit of wealth often blinds people to their spiritual needs and fosters greed. Psalm 37:16 says, “Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked.” Christians should aim for contentment, not excess. Billionaires hoard resources that could be used to alleviate suffering now.

Carl: Jonah, I agree that contentment is vital. Still, what if a billionaire sees their wealth as a stewardship from God? If they embrace generosity like in 2 Corinthians 9:7—“God loves a cheerful giver”—and actively seek to transform lives, can’t they glorify God through their wealth? Isn’t it more about their heart and actions than the number in their bank account?

Jonah: Perhaps, but the risks of wealth corrupting the soul are too great. Jesus called his followers to deny themselves and take up their cross (Matthew 16:24). Being a billionaire seems antithetical to that call. Can you truly follow Christ while holding onto such abundance in a world full of need?

Carl: Jonah, I respect your passion, but I believe the heart of the matter lies in how wealth is managed, not merely its existence. If a billionaire lives out Micah 6:8—acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God—then their wealth becomes a tool for God’s kingdom, not a hindrance. It’s about being faithful stewards of whatever God has entrusted to us.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.