In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down Bitcoin, explaining how the decentralized digital currency works, how transactions are tracked through blockchain, and why many people treat it as an investment.
April 25, 2026
The cryptocurrency that started it all…
Bitcoin is a digital currency. There’s no physical, printed version of it, and it’s not issued by any government.
So, how’s it different from sending digital U.S. dollars through Venmo?
Key word: decentralized.
Venmo transactions are cleared through Venmo, a central point. This means Venmo (or the governments it’s subject to) can take fees, block/delay transactions, or freeze funds. Bitcoin is peer-to-peer, like handing someone cash. You don’t need permission from anyone.
Who tracks the transactions?
Anyone.
Bitcoin uses a public digital ledger called blockchain. Every Bitcoin transaction gets bundled with others into a “block” and added to the chain, which is maintained by a network of computers worldwide that anyone can join. Changing a single transaction would require recalculating every block after it, and updating all those changes simultaneously across every computer on the network.
The mechanics of blockchain are confusing, but the effect is remarkable: it’s really, really hard to change or tamper with.
How much is Bitcoin worth?
As of writing, 1 BTC = $77,381. But, you’d better check again here… it fluctuates often.
How do I get Bitcoin?
Option 1: mine it. Now, before you grab your pickax, Bitcoin mining is actually math done by computers. Back in 2012, you could’ve joined in on your Dell, but today it requires expensive, specialized computers. The computers are validating Bitcoin transactions and adding them to the blockchain; the first to solve the problem and add the next block is rewarded with 3.125 Bitcoin (~$240k).
Option 2: buy it. You can convert U.S. dollars into bitcoin on exchanges like Coinbase or Robinhood. Assuming 1 BTC is $77,000, you could buy 0.00129 BTC for $100.
What can I do with Bitcoin?
Spend it (some companies accept), pay friends, or hold it and hope it goes up in value. Most Bitcoin owners treat it as an investment rather than a currency.
Want to learn more about Bitcoin? Watch today’s episode of TPO Explains on YouTube.
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ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
It can be easy to chase after shiny opportunities that promise us wealth and happiness, but Christians should remember that earthly possessions will always fail us. Our hope is in something priceless that will never change in value: the Kingdom of God.
“Don’t store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21 (CSB) (read full passage)
