Gambling is the intentional use of monetary or other resources for the purpose of gaining goods and services which accrue from the misfortune of others.

It opposes the biblical principle that one is to eat bread by honest labour. Genesis 3:19: “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground”. (Also Genesis 2:15; Ecclesiastes 5: 10; Proverbs 15: 27a; 1Timothy 6: 9 – 10)

Moreover, gambling has significant adverse effects on the individual and society: exploits the weaknesses of persons, it compromises and contributes to the disruption and destruction of the gambler’s personal life, family relationships and/or vocational pursuits, and is a social ill which leads to addiction and criminal behaviour. Galatians 6: 2: “Bear one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.” (Also Exodus 20:17; Deuteronomy 5:21; Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 7:12; Matthew 22: 36 – 39; Mark 12: 30-31; Luke 6: 31; Philippians 2: 3- 4)

The Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) recognizes that all we are and have belong to God. Psalm 24: 1 – 2: “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” (Also Psalm 50: 10 – 12). As God’s servants and stewards of the resources entrusted to us, we must be responsible in the use of these resources. Financial resources must be used productively or invested (Matthew 25: 14 – 30). The MCCA upholds the principle that gambling is spiritually and ethically wrong.

While the MCCA is aware of Governments’ concerns to meet the social and economic needs of communities, we recognize the greater negative impact on our people’s moral, ethical, social and spiritual development. We are committed to the holistic development of individuals, families, communities and nations in keeping with the integrity of a people of the Christian faith. Matthew 6:33: “Strive first for the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Also Philippians 4:19; Proverbs 3:5-6).