MONEY MADNESS
“Seeking the Kingdom in a Sinking Culture”
Kingdom POVERTY (Matt. 5:3)
The Sermon on the Mount begins with the “beatitudes” which describe the _________ of those in the Kingdom. The repetition of the word “blessed” means that these character traits are ____________ by God. (vv. 3-10) The word “poor” was used of one who __________ to survive and was totally dependent on the giving others. Poverty of spirit is a personal acknowledgment of our own spiritual ______________ before a Holy God.
“He who is reduced to nothing in himself, and relies on the mercy of God, is poor in spirit.” John Calvin
Being “poor in spirit” is _______________ in its deepest form & is expressed in complete dependence upon God.
Kingdom PRIORITIES (Luke 14:12-24)
Note the blessing pronounced on those who will eat bread in the ____________ of God. (v. 15) cf. Mt. 22:2-14 Jesus uses this Kingdom idea to _______ the people of coming surprises related to His Kingdom. This Parable centers around a man’s personal _________ to a Great Banquet. (v. 16) The Surprise comes in verse 18 when “they all alike began to make ___________” for why they could not come! Each excuse reflects the things of this World taking ___________ over the Kingdom. (vv. 18-20) (Mt. 6:33)
“Since most ancient landowners had 1 or 2 oxen, this man (5 oxen) is clearly wealthy…” Darrell Bock
The angry host then sends his servant to invite any and all who are ______________. (vv. 21-24)
i.e. “the poor…crippled…blind…lame” (Lk. 14:13)
“Prosperity inebriates men, so that they take delights in their own merits.” John Calvin
Practical Application:
- Remember your Poverty (Mt. 5:3; Js. 2:1-5)
- Remember the Poor (Gal. 2:7-10)
- Remember Lot’s Wife (Lk. 17:22-32)
Appointments with God
“MONEY MADNESS”
The Yield Issue
Monday, April 2nd
Meditate upon the Fleeting Nature of Wealth:
- Proverbs 23:4-5
Ask God for the discernment to distinguish the difference between what is eternal and what is temporal. What are your “eyes set on?”
Tuesday, April 3rd
Meditate upon the Danger of “Getting Rich Quick:”
- Proverbs 20:21; 21:5; 28:19-20,22
What are you more passionate about—worldly riches or being “rich toward God?” Ask God for a heart after Kingdom pursuits.
Wednesday, April 4th
Meditate upon the Return on Eternal Investments:
- Luke 6:38
Thank God for His Grace and how generous He has been toward you. Praise Him for how He rewards your giving.
Thursday, April 5th
Meditate upon our Need for Wisdom with Money:
- Proverbs 8:10-11, 18-19
- Proverbs 16:16
Ask God to give you more wisdom in your financial decisions. Talk to Him about how valuable wisdom is and how you need it!
Friday, April 6th
Meditate upon the Value of Grace Giving:
- 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Pray for God to make you hungry for true “riches.” Think about verse 9 and the incredible “price” of God’s grace. Praise God for His amazing grace.
Saturday/Sunday, April 7-8
Meditate upon the Indescribable Gift of God:
- 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
How has God demonstrated Generous Giving? Ask Him to make you a Cheerful Giver!
[audio:http://www.marshalltownefc.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/16-Money-Madness-Matt.-5_3Luk.-14_12-24.mp3|titles=16 Money Madness (Matt. 5_3;Luk. 14_12-24)]16 Money Madness (Matt. 5_3;Luk. 14_12-24)
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