Dave Ramsey Sparks Debate Over Inheritance Advice

Recently, finance expert Dave Ramsey stirred some controversy when he suggested during his show that a caller should consider withholding her daughters’ inheritances due to their adoption of socialist views.

The caller expressed her frustration, saying, “I’ve worked so hard my whole life and paid over half a million dollars for their college, and now they’ve turned into socialists. I feel terrible for wanting to withhold their inheritances.”

Ramsey, however, was quite firm in his response, stating, “You shouldn’t feel terrible. My kids have been taught from a young age that to manage the money I’ve been entrusted with, they must be people of character. Honestly, socialists, in my view, are not those people. They’re parasites.”

This clip quickly went viral, garnering reactions from many, some of whom were outraged, including a number of Christian viewers.

This raises the question—do parents have the right to disinherit their children if they stray from their values?

In a recent episode of “Live Free with Josh Howerton,” the Lakepointe pastor discussed the viral Ramsey clip and delved into whether Christian parents should disinherit children who rebel, whether that rebellion is due to socialism or other issues.

Howerton pointed out, “In the Bible, there are three core institutions: family, church, and state, each with their own consequences for what can be termed as ‘high rebellion.’”

He referenced 1 Corinthians 5, which describes excommunication as the ultimate penalty within the church for those living in open rebellion against God. Additionally, Howerton noted that in the state, extreme rebellion can result in the death penalty, which he stated is biblically supported in Romans 13.

But, what about families? Are there similar biblical penalties for children engaged in serious rebellion or unrepented sin? Howerton suggested that many theologians agree that disinheritance might be a response permissible by biblical standards.

He expressed, “I’ve made the decision not to be a financial supporter of rebellion against my Lord.” Yet, he also highlighted other biblical teachings, such as how the father in the prodigal son story granted his son a part of his inheritance, portraying a kind of kindness that can lead to repentance according to Romans 2:4. Moreover, he referenced Deuteronomy’s guidance against revenge-driven disinheritance.

For a deeper look into how Howerton and his wife navigate these complex issues regarding their children and their will, be sure to check out the episode.