Summary:
In Luke 12:22-34, Jesus reveals a heavenly Father who delights to give us the kingdom. God is a loving Father who does not withhold what is best for his children. He cares for what we need today, and he cares for our eternal well-being. This care for us is not rooted in how good we are, but in the reality that, in Christ, we have been adopted as God’s very own sons and daughters. If God is our Father, then why should we live as if he isn’t?
Discussion Questions:
- How does fear, worry, or anxiety manifest itself in your life? (What does it look like? How does it feel?)
- What are you currently most worried about or preoccupied with?
- In what relationships or present or future circumstances do you struggle to see God’s presence and activity?
- How does Luke 12:22-34 help you with this?
- In practical ways, how can you put off anxiety and put on seeking the kingdom?
Summary:
In Luke 12:13-21, Jesus answers a question about money. In so doing, He reveals subtle traps to which we are all vulnerable. Specifically, Jesus reveals some ways in which covetousness creeps into our thinking. Covetousness is craving what we don’t have. Covetousness describes a foolish tendency to pursue satisfaction by acquiring wealth or possessions. We are all susceptible to this… but Jesus is here to save us from covetousness. He does this by revealing its folly and pointing our eyes upward, to Himself… to real treasure.
Discussion Questions:
- There is a crucial difference between stewardship and ownership (Gene’s illustration of loaning out “his” car). Where do you confuse stewardship with ownership?
- Where do you look for life - satisfaction, comfort or security - in possessions?
- How do you presume on the future?
- What, specifically, is God calling you do in order to be wise with your possessions… to be rich toward God?
