Gambling
by Wyn Baker
My assignment for this study centers upon a subject of astounding
influence in our country. According to research, gambling in America
despite all federal and state restrictions, is the leading industry in the
country both in participants and the amount of money involved. Today
about 90 million adult Americans—of whom 43 million are men and 47
million are women—are gambling a conservative estimate of 500 billion
dollars annually. (Endnote 1)
Further estimates conclude that gambling in all forms is increasing by
popular demand. Through local, state and federal proponents, promotions
are being made at a level never before witnessed by any civilized society in
history. Under the names of Lotto America, Powerball, QuickCash, Pick 3,
SuperCash, VLT(video-lottery terminals), High Tech Keno, and others,
governmental authorities are appealing to the casual gambler to
approximately 20 billion per year. Proponents of this legalized wagering, are
arguing that the state's share of gambling proceeds will help support worthy
activities like education, economic development and programs for the
elderly without resorting to a mandatory tax increase. (Endnote 2)
For acceptance, society is saying that the energy involved in gambling is
a healthy, entertaining, plausible activity that can, when regulated, provide
worthy results to justifiable causes. In regard to this statement, is it so? Is it
true that gambling is a healthy, entertaining, plausible activity that reaps
permissible benefits to justifiable causes? Is the activity of gambling a safe,
moral option that allows Christians to participate, even under the
justification of doing good or just having fun?
In this study, the question that we propose in light of our theme is, "Can
the Christian be justified in the sight of God and be involved in the activity
of gambling?" As Christians living in the world, can we or should we actively
participate in gambling?
What is Gambling?
According to Webster, gambling is "the act or practice of betting, or the act
of playing a game to consciously risk money or other stakes on it's
outcome." (Endnote 3)