Money Talks Again

Introduction

Let’s dive into a topic that might make some of us feel a little uncomfortable: Money. We've talked about it before. Let's talk about it again. It's a subject often avoided, yet it holds significant power over our daily lives. Whether we like it or not, money is a central part of our existence. It affects our relationships, decisions, and even our spiritual journey.

Why talk about money in church, you might ask? Isn’t faith supposed to be separate from finances? The truth is, money is mentioned over 2,300 times in the Bible—more than faith and prayer combined. Jesus spoke about money in 15% of His teachings, and 11 of His 39 parables focus on it. Clearly, God has a lot to say about this topic. 

Money is not just a tool for transaction but a reflection of our hearts. Let’s be honest: money can be a source of anxiety and stress. Many of us worry about having enough to provide for our families, pay bills, or plan for the future. Others might find themselves trapped in cycles of debt, struggling to break free, and struggling to practice giving.

We need to talk about money again because of three truths revealed in the Bible about money:

1. Money is a Tool. 

1 Timothy 6:17-18 (NIV): "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share."

Money is a tool that can be used, not just to meet our needs and for our enjoyment but also to accomplish God's work and to help others. It allows us to bless those in need, support the church, and further God's kingdom on earth. Let us use money intentionally to serve others and to invest in things that have eternal value. Be generous and willing to share what you have been blessed with instead of hoarding it or using it only for your pleasures.

2. Money is a Test.

Luke 16:10-13 (NIV): "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else's property, who will give you property of your own? No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

God uses our handling of money to test our faithfulness to God and our stewardship of His resources. How we manage our finances reflects our character and priorities. It is a heart issue. Let us be faithful with whatever amount we have been entrusted with, whether large or small. Let us be content and not greedy. Let us show integrity in our financial dealings and prove ourselves trustworthy before God when it comes to money. Do not fail the test when it comes to money. 

3. Money is a Trap. 

1 Timothy 6:9-10 (NIV): "Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

Money can easily become a trap if we allow the desire for wealth to consume us. It can lead to greed, unhealthy pursuits, and spiritual downfall. It can also cause us to miss our calling. Let us guard our hearts against the love of money. Let us seek contentment in God rather than in worldly possessions, and avoid the pitfalls of greed and materialism that is so prevalent among those who do not trust God. Let us serve God, not money. 

Conclusion:

We need to talk about money because the world has a one-sided view of it. For them it's all about materialism and greed. Instead, let us view money with a balanced biblical perspective: as a tool for doing good, a test of faithfulness, and a potential trap to be wary of. Let us seek God's wisdom in managing our finances, prioritizing His kingdom over worldly wealth. Remember, true fulfillment and security are found in God alone, not in money.

Discussion:

1. Reflecting on 1 Timothy 6:17-18, how do you view money as a tool for serving others and furthering God’s kingdom? Can you share a specific instance when you used your finances to bless someone or advance the church's mission?

2. In what ways can money be a test of our faithfulness and stewardship, as described in Luke 16:10-13? What steps can we take to demonstrate integrity and faithfulness in our financial dealings?

3. What are some signs that money is becoming a trap in your life, based on 1 Timothy 6:9-10? How can we guard our hearts against the love of money and find contentment in God?  

4. Considering that money can cause anxiety and stress, how can our faith help us find peace and security beyond financial concerns? What practical steps can we take to shift our trust from wealth to God’s provision?  

5. How can we cultivate a balanced, biblical perspective on money that contrasts with the materialistic views of the world? What specific changes can we make in our lives to prioritize God’s kingdom over worldly wealth?

Discussion for Bigger Groups:

Introduction: Start by reading the key Scripture passages together.

Discussion: Break into smaller groups to discuss each question and allow time for sharing.

Conclusion: Reconvene to summarize insights and encourage application of discussed principles.

Additional Tips:

Create a Safe Environment: Encourage openness by reminding participants that financial discussions are often personal and sensitive.

Share Personal Stories: As a facilitator, share your own experiences to set the tone and model vulnerability.

Pray for Guidance: Begin and end the discussion with prayer, seeking God’s wisdom in managing finances.