Should a Christian get insurance?

Question: "Should a Christian get insurance?"

Answer: What a good question. I have struggled with the exact same question. I think it is a healthy struggle and believers need to examine the scriptures and come up with an answer they can defend Biblically.

First, let us agree that insurance is not specifically mentioned in the Bible. If something is not specifically mentioned in the Word of God, then we must draw from the principles and teaching of the whole testimony of scripture. After gleaning all applicable scriptural principles, different believers may come to differing personal convictions. Romans chapter 14 tells that such situations call for us to allow others to choose differently in their convictions and we are to respect that. In that same chapter it is also written that each believer has a responsibility to make up our own minds (Romans 14:5). The wording of the text indicates that we are required to do a thorough study of the Word of God and then to make up our minds as to what God wants us to do as a personal conviction. We must realize that the final verse of that same chapter of Romans 14 states that whatever we decide must be an act of faith.

What are some of the principles? We are to obey the authorities over us. Thus, we are required to have auto liability insurance. We are to take care of our families. Thus we must plan ahead for the future benefit of our families. I believe that this speaks of saving for future needs such as clothes, college, and complications. This may also include the planning of the care-taking of medical needs by the securing of insurance. This could also include the preparing for the undesired and unforeseeable earlier demise of a parent. Life insurance can be seen as a lack of faith, love of money, prudent planning, or possibly wise stewardship of funds. Each person’s conditions and convictions make a huge difference on that reality. God certainly advocates planning ahead. The story of Joseph and his wise planning not only saved the pagan nation of Egypt but also the people of Israel and the lineage of Christ.

The bottom line is you must study the Word of God and call out to Him asking what He would have you to do. Hebrews 11:6 states that without faith, it is impossible to please Him. This is the real question, “Will this please my Father in heaven?” Another verse to consider is that of James 4:17 which makes it clear that if we have a chance to do good, we not only should but must or else we sin. The context there is talking about planning and the future and is a good read for someone struggling with this question. The verse that was the final straw for me personally to change my position is that of first Timothy 5:8. It states clearly if we want to minister to others, let us start with our own families. It also makes it clear that men have a responsibility to take care of the physical needs past, present, and future of their families.

The decision is yours to make and should be defensible from the Word of God as to the principles that you use to formulate your personal convictions.

Recommended Resource: How to Manage Your Money: An In-Depth Bible Study On Personal Finances by Larry Burkett.