The concept of moral greediness has been churning in my mind of late. I’ve accepted the permanence of greed in this world as I’ve accept the permanence of poverty. I think they’re causally related. Greed, along with its cousins, envy, jealously, and violence, cause poverty. Jesus said, “The poor you will always have with you,” (Matthew 15:11), which is a restatement of His own words to Moses;

“For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.” (Deuteronomy 15:11)

I’ve seen it all my life, even within the recesses of my own heart. It’s like an old piece of furniture that everyone wants to keep around but no one is sure why. It still surprises me when I see it in religious circles, especially Christianity, which is a religion supposedly based on an all sacrificing God who gave Himself for humanity. Christianity touts self-sacrifice as a defining characteristic and requisite for inheriting eternal life, but outwardly appears to give little thought to “dying to oneself” or “giving to those who ask of us.” (Matthew 5:42) Granted, these principles are primarily related to fiscal behavior, but that’s not what this post is about.

In a conversation with my wife a couple of days ago about businesses choosing whom they will serve or not serve because of religious reasons, we tossed around the idea of “moral greed.” Moral greed can be equated with fiscal greed in almost every way. Those who are not content with what they already have, want more, and usually at the expense of others. Incrementalism, the idea that we can make small moral moves over long periods of time to change how people think is no longer sufficient. Believers and unbelievers alike want all that they want morally, right now. It’s like a land grab for the moral high ground. It’s no longer adequate to let each live their own way on their own moral property. Tolerance has become intolerable and trespassing second nature. There’s a sense of entitlement for an eminent domain which is not debatable, and demanded in the moment. Regardless of one’s faith, or lack thereof, the land is full of moral misers.

To be fair, Jesus demanded repentance and belief in the moment and not incrementally, but He’s the one who followed hurting humanity into their pain and poverty. If we’re set on demanding behavioral change in others, and we call ourselves Christians, then we should also follow people into their pain and poverty. Believers should exemplify moral generosity. They are to  do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with their God. (Micah 6:8)  Additionally, I’m not so sure that any person should demand moral compliance of another. Moral Greed postures, demands, and manipulates. I’d like to continue along on this theme in a short series, but for now… A few questions:

1. Do you think the concept of moral greed is a valid? Why, or Why not?

2. What sorts of behaviors would you describe as morally greedy?

3. In your opinion, does moral greed cause moral poverty?