Statement on the Intersection of Christian Faith and Bitcoin (03/22/'24) -Message

Statement on the Intersection of Christian Faith and Bitcoin In the ever-evolving landscape of financial technologies, Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies have emerged as both a challenge and an opportunity for individuals seeking to align their financial practices with their Christian faith. This statement aims to distill key insights into how these digital currencies intersect with biblical principles, highlighting the real issues at stake. The Opportunities Presented by Bitcoin: Stewardship and Innovation: Christianity teaches the importance of managing resources wisely. Bitcoin represents a new avenue for stewardship, offering innovative ways to increase and manage God’s gifts in accordance with the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). Promoting Financial Freedom: The decentralized nature of Bitcoin aligns with the biblical value of financial liberty, providing novel methods to support others without the constraints of traditional financial systems, reflecting the spirit of generosity encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. The Challenges and Ethical Considerations: Navigating Volatility: The Bible cautions against the uncertainties of wealth (1 Timothy 6:17). Bitcoin's volatility raises concerns about the prudence of such investments from a Christian perspective. Materialism and Potential Misuse: The pursuit of wealth, if unchecked, can lead to materialism or idolatry, contrary to Matthew 6:24. Furthermore, the anonymity of Bitcoin poses ethical dilemmas, particularly regarding its potential for misuse. Vision for Ethical Engagement with Bitcoin: It is essential for Christians engaging with Bitcoin to do so with a clear understanding of the broader biblical principles governing money and wealth. This includes stewardship, ethical conduct, and the prioritization of Godly values over financial gain. The core of our engagement with any financial technology should be to further the Kingdom of God, support others, and maintain integrity and transparency in all dealings. In light of these insights, it is clear that while Bitcoin offers new opportunities for stewardship and financial freedom, it also presents significant ethical challenges. Christians are called to navigate these waters with discernment, guided by the teachings of Scripture and a commitment to God’s overarching commandments to love Him and our neighbors. This statement serves as a reminder of the real issues at the heart of the intersection between Christian faith and modern financial technologies, urging a thoughtful and principled approach to the use of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 22, 2024)