What does the bible say about getting paid to play a game?

Answer 1

Whilst the ancient Greeks and the Romans were noted for playing games, it appears that the biblical Hebrews and first century Christians do not appear to have been particularly renowned for such activities. However, The Bible does reveal that 'playing' (e.g. Musical Instruments/games/acting in a play) was an aspect of life in bible times. It also makes direct reference to 'pay' for services, including paying both 'permanent' employees and hired workers, as well as paying for goods and services rendered. The bible also contains many guidelines for living, in the form of laws, principles, parables, stories, and examples from which we can draw some indication of the bible's view on such activities

GAMES AND PAYMENTS. The Bible makes many references to contestants in a game getting a prize. (e.g. 1 Cor 9:24, Phil 3:13,14; 2 Tim 2:5, 1 Cor 9:25; Heb 12:1,2) A prize is a reward for effort. Pay is a reward for effort. The worker deserves, is worthy of, his wage. (1 Tim 5:18) In addition, music concerts were not unknown in Bible times. (Luke 15:25) An entertainer or a member of an orchestra might get paid or even be awarded a regular financial allowance for playing in the orchestra or singing for the pleasure/service of others. (Numbers 10:8; 1 Ki 10:12; 1 Chron 16:5; 23:1-5; 2 Chron 5:11-13; Neh 12:27; Eccles 2:5, superscriptions of Psalm 4, 6, etc) So, it would seem that there can be no fundamental biblical objections to anyone getting paid for playing/performing/entertaining/serving others. PHYSICAL v. SPIRITUAL PRIORITIES. Interestingly the bible does compare and contrast sporting activity with spiritual activities and indicates that the former may have certain benefits but that the latter has even greater benefits. (1 Tim 4:7-10. 2 Tim 3:4) It also appears that the bible discourages violence and violent aggressive competitiveness (Psalm 11:5; Gal 5:25). As there are religious/moral/ethical considerations to be taken into account, the nature of the 'game' is a very important consideration. If the game violates Bible principles, then a believer would not want to play it nor even be entertained by it, let alone pay anyone to perform activity that is condemned by the bible. Playing harmless games is one thing (Zech 8:10: Matthew 11:16-17), harmful activities or losing self-control are another. (1 Cor 9:25)

SPECTATOR SPORTS/GAMES. Spectator games are common today. e.g. Football, chess, darts, Bowling, golf, athletics, are just a few examples. If a person wants to watch such games, would it be morally wrong to pay to view, or to pay for admission to the venue where such events are taking place? Should all sports/games be free to watch? And, if so, how would the organisers and site owners be remunerated for their services? Would it be right for the organisers to be paid (and take profit) but not to pay/reward/remunerate the actual game participants? Should the players be expected to play for nothing, whilst the management and supporting staff are re-umbursed, and possible profit, from the services they provide?

Summary: Whilst the above bible references and other comments may not directly answer the question, this brief review of bible points and the consideration spectator sports in general may be of some help in making informed decisions on such matters.