MONEY MATTERS?

Session 5

 

2 Cor 9:6-8

Luke 16: 1-15

 

3 main points for discussion:

 

1.         The Bible and Money.

2.         Budgeting and Debt.

3.         Giving and Tithing.

 

1.         The Bible and Money

(a)  The Bible is not afraid to talk cash

·        King David making plans to build the temple in Jerusalem (1 Chr 29)

·        Paul asks the Corinthians to raise money for the poor in Jerusalem (2 Cor 8)

 

(b) The Bible affirms that money is “neutral”, and can be used for good or  evil

·        Money, or being rich of itself is not wrong.

 

(c) The Bible’s public health warning; “Beware the power of money”.

·        Achan’s corruption (Jos 7), the Rich Young Ruler (Mk 10), Judas Iscariot and Annaias and Sapphira (Acts 5)

 

M.O.T. Check Point 15 – The Bible is open about money, affirms its neutrality, and warns of its power.

 

2.         Budgeting and Money

·        Recognise the difference between need, want and desire

·        Ask the question, “how much is enough?”

·        Debt is a mortgage, car loan, or store card we cannot afford to repay.

·        On budgeting it is good to learn to live on 90% of your income.

 

M.O.T. Check Point 16 – Budget wisely, learn from mistakes, always face up to debt.

 

3.         Giving and Tithing.

How should I give – 3 key elements.

(a)       Give in secret (Matt 6: 3-4)

(b)       Give consistently

(c)        Give Whole-heartedly and cheerfully (2 Cor 9:6-8)

 

M.O.T. Check Point 17 – It is impossible to out-give God.

 

Points for reflection – consider and reflect upon the 2 Bible passages at the top of these notes. Ask the question – What is God saying to me?

 

BACK