Desires - Week 2 - Money

Discussion Guide 

This weekend we talked about money and how to navigate it the way Jesus intended. Jesus talked about money often. He knew the love of it was a trap and causes many of the issues and problems in this world. Let's look at what the Bible teaches about the wrong desire for money over God.  

What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.  

Jump Start  

1. Read 1 Timothy 6:9-10. At what point does money turn into a problem in this scripture? What does “craving” money seem to cause?  

2. Tithe. Read Matthew 23:23 (NLT), Genesis 4:3-7. Jesus confirmed tithing was important but what was most important? What was the issue with Cain’s offering? Consider the difference between Cain’s offering and Abel’s offering.  

3. Generosity. Read Luke 14:13-14, Matthew 5:42. To whom are we called to be generous? What is God trying to teach us about our finances? How can our generosity impact God’s Kingdom? 

4. Contentment. Read 1 Timothy 6:6-8. Consider why godliness and contentment is “great gain?” Why is contentment so hard in our culture today?  

Action Step: Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the next steps on your journey with tithing, generosity and contentment.  

Deeper 

What can we learn from the rich young ruler that approached Jesus asking what he must do to have eternal life? Let's look at how his wealth seemed to be his priority.  

5. Read Matthew 19:16-19. What was the young man looking for? What was Jesus's response?  

6. Read Matthew 19:20-22. Consider what Jesus was trying to get the young man to see about himself. Why did the man leave sad?