What does the Bible say about merchant?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible portrays merchants and trade as ordinary parts of human society, while warning that wealth, luxury, and commerce must remain under God’s rule. Abraham honestly weighed out silver to purchase Sarah’s burial place in Genesis 23:16, and Joseph was sold to traveling merchants in Genesis 37:28, showing both lawful exchange and human sin. Solomon’s kingdom received revenue from merchants and traded horses in 1 Kings 10:15, 28, yet such prosperity could not secure lasting faithfulness. Nehemiah 13:20 shows him guarding the Sabbath against commercial pressure. Isaiah 23:2 portrays prosperous Tyre’s merchants, whose wealth ultimately stood accountable to the Lord. Christians may work and trade diligently, but must honor God, keep His worship holy, and refuse to make gain their master.
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- General scriptures concerning Genesis 23:16; Genesis 37:28; 1 Kings 10:15; 1 Kings 10:28; 2 Chronicles 9:14; Nehemiah 3:32; Nehemiah 13:20; Job 41:6; Song of Solomon 3:6; Isaiah 23:2; Isaiah 47:15; Ezekiel 17:4
- See COMMERCE
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