'Gambling of any kind amounts to theft by permission'- Dr Melvin A. Turnbull
According to Dr Turnbull, in a press release today, June 15, 2020, gambling may be practised in many different ways. These include, but are not limited to the lottery, Ponzi schemes or pyramid schemes, and pari-mutuel betting.
He said some forms appear to be quite innocent, and sometimes percentages of the profits are used for a good cause. “God’s Word, however, indicates that gambling in any form is contrary to the Will of God for a Believer. First, gambling or betting puts faith in chance or luck rather than in the care and provision of God. Second, one who gambles seeks to profit from another’s loss. This practice borders on covetousness and stealing.”
Promoting ‘a greedy spirit’
Dr Turnbull continued that gambling promotes a greedy spirit and it emphasises getting rather than giving, selfish interest rather than self-sacrifice, and erodes the moral fibre of society.
“The Bible indicates that there are three ways by which to profit materially. First, work. “If any would not work, neither should he eat” (2Thessalonians 3:10, KJV). Second, by wise investments (refer to the parable of the talents in Luke 19:1-27). Third, gifts or inheritance. “Children ought not to lay up for the parents, but parents for the children” (2 Corinthians 12:14, KJV).”
Noting that one writer says, the appeal of gambling is somewhat understandable and that there is something alluring about getting something for nothing, Dr Turnbull pointed out that is where the sin lies.
“Gambling of any kind amounts to theft by permission. The coin is flipped, the dice are rolled, or the horses run, and somebody rakes in that which belongs to another. The Bible says, ‘In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread’ (Genesis 3:19, KJV). It doesn’t say, ‘By the flip of a coin shalt thou eat thy lunch.’ I realise that in most petty gambling no harm is intended, but the principle is the same as in big gambling. The difference is only in the amount of money involved.”
Similar to an alcoholic
The pastor, who is also the father of Second District Representative Hon Melvin M. Turnbull (R2), the experience of the gambler is similar to that of the alcoholic.
“He deludes himself that he is master of his life which is actually out of control. He denies he has any problem, even though his family disintegrates. He ends up with enormous debts and even steals to cover his losses. The gambler may promise to quit, but rarely follows through unless he experiences a disaster which brings him face to face with the reality of his situation.”
According to Pastor Turnbull, an encounter with Jesus Christ is the only solution for many; and some experience immediate freedom from the addiction.
“Complete victory for others, however, is often a process. Many of the same emotional problems of the alcoholic are also present in the gambler, and the underlying causes must be dealt with in the light of the Word of God.”
Hot topic
Meanwhile, the issue of gambling being legalised in the Virgin Islands has always been a hot topic of debate and there have been mixed reactions on the subject.
There has long been a call, particularly from horse owners and horse racing fans to legalise pari-mutuel wagering in the Virgin Islands. There have also been calls for casinos to be permitted in the Territory. Opposing views; however, have come mainly from the Christian community.
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30 Responses to “'Gambling of any kind amounts to theft by permission'- Dr Melvin A. Turnbull”
I read an article about a Billy Graham crusade where several white pastors sat on one side of Billy and a single black pastor sat on the other side by himself. Yet, we are to believe that all of them will be friends in heaven. Some might say: these white pastors are not really Christian. But the reality is that: THEY ARE.
1. some members in his church serve rum(the same rum drinking they preach about) but the good pastor continue to accepting their offerings)
2. the pastor shop at supermarket and his grocery payment contributes towards restocking the supermarket shelves with cigarettes and alcoholic beverages
the one among us without sin should cast the first stone: when you have nothing to eat can you stop at his home for a meal
gainful and lawful employment is the key to success so if all pastor bringing to the table is talk, he should go sit down
the church said Amen
Paying tithes with hopes of getting into heaven isn't gambling as well? What the @3$%^ is really wrong with these people? Nothing is wrong with having an opinion but these holier than thou statements make me sick! Churches host Bingo, Raffles and the like all the time as fundraisers to build their monstrosity structures of worship, what's the difference?
The premier claims to be a Christian, if that is so, his actions will testify
Is this a Christian Community. Hatred , Malice and Envy.
All these are the beginning of sorrow. My heart aches whenever I go on these site.
Father , please stretch your hands again over the beautiful BVI.
And pay the preacher.
And you bought it.