This is perhaps the most theologically significant use. Meaning: The “world” as the system of human values, powers, and culture that is alienated from and in rebellion against God.Examples: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)
“My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36). “The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that its works are evil.” (John 7:7). Implication: Jesus saw the world as a realm dominated by sin, pride, and spiritual blindness, and as such, requiring salvation.
Other biblical citations use “world” as all the people on earth. Examples here: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son…” (John 3:16)
Occasionally, “world” refers to the created, physical realm. “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36). “Before the world was…” (John 17:5).
The implication is that Jesus acknowledged the material world but emphasized it was temporary and not to be clung to above spiritual truth.
Jesus sometimes contrasted the “world” with the coming kingdom or age of God. “The cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches…” (Matthew 13:22). The implication is that the world is fleeting and often a distraction from eternal priorities.
Let’s compare Jesus’ concept of “the world” to the current culture of billionaires, particularly through the lens of values, power, and purpose.
1. Power and Pride vs. Humility and Service
Jesus on “the world”:
The world values status, dominance, and pride.
Jesus calls His followers to humility, service, and self-denial.
“Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35). “You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)
Modern billionaires, onm the other hand? Their culture?
That often celebrates self-made success, power, influence, and ambition.
Many billionaires are idolized as visionary leaders who reshape society.
Wealth accumulation is frequently a badge of success and identity.
Contrast: Jesus rejected the idea that earthly power or wealth defined greatness. In His view, the “world” values things that ultimately blind people to God.
Call it “Accumulation” versus “Detachment.”
Jesus warned repeatedly against the dangers of wealth. “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, but lose his soul?” (Mark 8:36). “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:24)
Billionaire culture:
Revolves around accumulating assets, growing companies, expanding portfolios, and gaining influence.
Often emphasizes technological control, longevity, and legacy projects (like space travel or AI immortality).
Contrast: Where billionaires often seek to control or extend life, Jesus calls His followers to lose their life for His sake (Matthew 10:39), trusting in God’s kingdom over human achievement.
3. Worldly Security vs. Eternal Security
Here Jesus critiqued the illusion that wealth brings security. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19–20).
Modern culture:
Billionaire lifestyle promotes the ultimate comfort and insulation from risk, with private islands, bodyguards, and disaster bunkers.
Some pursue transhumanist ideals—trying to outsmart death itself.
Contrast: Jesus said the world chases false security. True life comes through surrender, not control.
Public Good or Personal Glory?
Jesus taught that even righteous acts should be done quietly, without seeking applause. “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Matthew 6:3)
Billionaires today:
Many are involved in philanthropy, which can be admirable.
But even this can sometimes be tied to personal legacy, branding, or tax advantage.
Contrast: Jesus warned that doing good for public recognition was a form of spiritual emptiness.