Riches

INTRODUCTION.

A.        This morning, I would like to discuss with you what the Bible says about riches.

B.        There are different extremes to this subject.

1.         Some people may advocate the renouncing of all physical possessions in order to serve Jesus.

2.         Other people may believe that God wants them to be as rich as possible, no matter what.

C.        The idea for this simple lesson was spawned about two weeks ago when I was reading Psalms 49:13-20. Please follow along with me in your Bibles.

D.        With this lesson, we will look at several Bible passages which address the subject of riches or being rich.

I.         BEWARE OF THE DESIRE TO BE RICH.

            A.        We should desire to be content and not desire to be rich. (1 Timothy 6:6-10)

            B.        The desire to be rich can easily become covetousness. (Colossians 3:5; Luke 12:15)

            C.        Do not confuse the desire to be rich with the desire to provide for one’s family. (Cf. 1 Timothy 5:8; 2 Thessalonians 3:10)

                        1.         The desire to provide for one’s family is satisfied when their needs are met.

                        2.         The desire to be rich is a never ending desire.

II.       THE DANGERS OF BEING RICH.

            A.        Beware of those who obtain their riches through unrighteousness behavior. (James 5:1-6; Proverbs 28:20,22)

            B.        Do not trust in riches. The riches of the world are temporary. (1 Timothy 6:17-19; Proverbs 23:4,5)

            C.        Riches can hinder your service to God.

                        1.         This is seen in the parable of the sower. (Mark 4:19)

                        2.         The story of the rich man also illustrates how riches could hinder someone from following Jesus. (Matthew 19:16-29)

            D.        We need to seek a balance. (Proverbs 30:8,9)

CONCLUSION.

A.        The Bible does not condemn the person who is rich. However, the Bible does warn against the desire to be rich, the distractive nature of riches, and the trusting in riches.

B.        While we may desire a bigger house, a nicer car, and a greater expense allowance, we must keep our primary focus on serving the heavenly Father. (Matthew 6:19-21)

C.        Let us focus on living righteously so that we are prepared for judgment. (Proverbs 11:4,28)

D.        If you are not yet a Christian, then you need to begin laying up treasures in heaven by obeying Jesus’ call to salvation.

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Riches -- February 29, 2004 -- File # 2440

by John M. Duvall -- Lawton, OK