Is this teaching biblical?
Brian Houston's message that 'you need more money' contradicts Scripture's consistent warning against materialism. The Bible teaches contentment with what we have, warns that the love of money is destructive, and instructs believers to store treasures in heaven rather than on earth.
What did Brian Houston say?
"You need more money. What money can do in your head is bless, it can help, it can build, it can increase."
Speaker: Brian Houston
Source: Hillsong Church sermon
What does Scripture actually teach?
1 Timothy 6:10
"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
— NKJV
Paul identifies the love of money as a 'root of all kinds of evil' — not a blessing to be pursued. Houston's teaching encourages the very attachment Scripture warns against.
Hebrews 13:5
"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"
— NKJV
The Bible commands contentment, not the pursuit of more money. God's presence — not wealth — is presented as the source of security and satisfaction.
Matthew 6:19-21
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
— NKJV
Jesus commands the opposite of Houston's message. Rather than needing more earthly money, believers should invest in eternal treasures.