OPPOSITION TO GAMBLING

John 19:23-27
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.

The Crucifixion

23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they divided his clothes among the four of them. They also took his robe, but it was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. 24 So they said, “Rather than tearing it apart, let’s throw dice for it.” This fulfilled the Scripture that says, “They divided my garments among themselves and threw dice for my clothing.” So that is what they did.

25 Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” 27 And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.


Why does the church stand in opposition to gambling? Casting lots or throwing dice was a practice used throughout the Old Testament in decision making. One scripture says, “We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fall.” – Proverbs 16:33. Gambling has many negatives (addiction, financial calamity, family destruction) attached to it. I believe the most prominent reason gambling is opposed by the church however, is it’s attachment to the crucifixion.

While Jesus was hanging on the Cross, the soldiers were gambling at His feet.

It is interesting that while the soldiers were participating in a practice which, among other things, destroys families, Jesus took time to focus on His family. He “…saw his mother…”, and in the midst of His own suffering, secured the service of the disciple John to make sure His mother didn’t suffer.