2019 Theme Lights in a Dark World Philippians 2:15

The Christian and His Money

Understanding money What is money? A medium of exchange Money is morally neutral There is no virtue, nor shame in wealth OR poverty We need money

Understanding money How do we use it? 1 Timothy 6:10, Proverbs 30:8-9 With wealth comes responsibility - 1 Timothy 6:17 We live in a society that does not always encourage wise management of our money

Understanding money Money will not bring true satisfaction Ecclesiastes 5:10 Do not trust in uncertain riches – 1 Timothy 6:17 Luke 12:16-21 – the rich fool James 1:9-11

Understanding money HOW can the way we manage our money affect our influence? Are we hindered from doing more for the cause of Christ? Does it stand in our way of doing what we SHOULD do? Attend? Participate? Prefer our brethren? Study with others?

Understanding money Does the world see materialism in us? Does it affect how we view others who are different? Does it lead to sinful behaviors? Do we do our best to sustain ourselves? (cf. 2 Thessalonians 3:10) Do we live as if we would be fine without the Lord? Does the world see our trust in God?

Principles that govern money The Bible has much to say about money. More than 2300 verses (about 7.5%) – directly and indirectly God understood its impact, both for good and for evil

Principles that govern money Dangers of Materialism Aware of dangers Matthew 6:24 – you cannot serve God AND mammon Ephesians 5:5 - idolatry Mark 10:17-22 1 Timothy 6:9-10 – consequences Matthew 13:22 – the “thorny ground”

Principles that govern money Stewardship We are stewards – all that we have belongs to God and is ours to manage Steward – a servant, trusted with authority (e.g. Joseph) Luke 12:42-43– a faithful and wise steward Matthew 25:14-30 – your talents Luke 16:10 – faithful in least, much 1 Corinthians 4:2

Principles that govern money Honesty MUST reflect who we are It is related to how we manage what we have 2 Corinthians 8:21– providing things honorable… 1 Peter 2:12 – conduct honorable among the Gentiles Ephesians 4:25 – speak truth to your neighbor

Principles that govern money Honesty Do we pay our taxes and bills? Do we cheat or take advantage of others? Are we honest with ourselves? - Our future – debt, future doesn’t matter, etc. - Thinking spending will make us feel better - Honest with our family The world is watching!

Principles that govern money Contentment Also VERY fundamental Hebrews 13:5, 1 Timothy 6:6-7 Which is more difficult to be content – when you have much or little? Philippians 4:11-13 This is a way we can let our lights shine!

Principles that govern money Sharing The life of a Christian. Not selfish, a miser, etc. The Bible is filled with examples of benevolence Are we willing to accept help? Galatians 6:10 Hebrews 13:16

Is God first with what I have?