In our text today, Jesus moves from a discussion of hypocrisy to one of covetousness. As he does so, we are challenged to remember that the source of many discords and divisions is rooted in the sin of covetousness: a trust in the things of this world rather than confidence in the promises of God.
Jesus introduces this text after He receives a request from a man in the crowd who is seeking to have the Lord to intervene in a conflict between him and his brother. In answering this request, Jesus endorses not only the established processes of reconciliation, but also confronts the sin of covetousness through the famous story of the rich fool.
With this text, we are forced to consider our own belief in the Lord and His Kingdom. Do our actions match by our words? Do we really trust the Lord? Do we really trust His promises? Do we understand that our Father will indeed meet our needs?
To help you with your study of this topic, we are also including the study questions prepared each week for our congregation. May the Lord use them, and the sermon, to be a blessing to you. You will find them, as well as a short prayer, directly below the audio link.
Covetousness or Confidence?
Luke 12:13-34
Series: Luke – A Prescription for Doubtful Souls
Pastor James McDonald
- Consider the context, why does this man’s request seem out of place?
- What did this man want from Jesus? What does Jesus affirm in verse 14?
- What is covetousness? Why is it a dangerous sin? Based on the parable, to what does it lead?
- How are covetousness and worry related?
- As you consider ravens and lilies, what do we learn about God and our needs?
- What is the difference between needs and greed? Which do you fret after?
- How is the worldview of consumerism contrasted with the worldview of the Kingdom? Which do you have?
- What is the Father pleased to give you?
- Is it a sin to gain wealth?
- What do your spending habits say about your Kingdom focus?
Gracious Father, while we know Your Word proclaims that You are the Giver of all good gifts, we often delude ourselves, thinking that our advances cone from our efforts, our labors, and our own schemes. We thus forget You, Your grace, Your goodness, Your provision and Your protection. We place our trust in our possessions. We look to the things of this world for satisfaction. As we do, we become unthankful, selfish, and presumptuous, and we worry and strive for more. We forget that all we have is truly owned by You, and that we are simply stewards charged with using Your gifts for the expanse of the Kingdom.
