Sermon Illustrations on Riches — page 2

The Sad Life of Howard Hughes

He was the world's ultimate mystery -- so secretive, so reclusive,

so enigmatic, that for more than 15 years no one could say for certain

that he was alive, much less how he looked or behaved.

Howard Hughes was one of the richest men in the world, with the

destinies of thousands of people -- perhaps even of governments -- at

his disposal, yet he lived a sunless, joyless, half-lunatic life. In

his later years he fled from one resort hotel to another -- Las Vegas,

Nicaragua, Acapulco -- and his physical appearance became odder and

odder. His straggly beard hung down to his waist and his hair reached

to the middle of his back. His fingernails were two inches long, and

his toenails hadn't been trimmed for so long they resembled

corkscrews.

Hughes was married for 13 years to Jean Peters, one of the most

beautiful women in the world. But never in that time were the two

seen in public together, and there is no record of their ever having

been photographed together. For a while they occupied separate

bungalows at the Beverly Hills Hotel (at $175 per day each), and later

she lived in an opulent and carefully guarded French Regency house

atop a hill in Bel Air, making secretive and increasingly infrequent

trips to be with Hughes in Las Vegas. They were divorced in 1970.

Hughes often said, "Every man has his price or a guy like me

couldn't exist," yet no amount of money bought the affection of his

associates. Most of his employees who have broken the silence report

their disgust for him. --Alan McGinnis

Can't Afford To Save Money

A salesman was trying to sell a refrigerator to a housewife and

said, "Lady, you can save enough on your food bill to pay for it." The

housewife answered, "We're paying for a car on the carfare we save,

we're paying for a washing machine on the laundry bill we save, we're

paying for a television set on the cost of movies we don't see

anymore. It looks as if we can't afford to save any money at this

time."

When we desire the right things, God gives us the desires of our heart. Dr. Wilfred Grenfell (1866-1940) became the personal physician for Edward VII. Before him was a life of prosperity and luxury. But the benefits of this career held little appeal for him. He found his deepest satisfaction in his personal relationship with God. As he reflected on his place in God's service, he developed a deep desire to practice medicine in Labrador. God granted that desire.

Looking back, he thought of all he would have missed had he stayed in London. Riding in a Rolls Royce and living in a mansion would have been paltry substitutes for the 42 years of medical missionary work he did in Labrador.

The Stock Market

A leading economic expert, Professor Irving Fisher of Yale, had

this to say about the bright future of the stock market and the

American economy: "Stock prices have reached what looks like a

permanently high plateau." (Spoken in early October 1929 just a

couple of weeks before the stock market crash that caused the Great

Depression.) --Perils of Prosperity

Who Needs This?

Think of the man who strives and labors and tries extra hard to

satisfy his family with an enormous, beautiful mansion -- and his wife

doesn't even want to live there. So he winds up with a big pile of

wood and stone, cabinets and carpet, elegant rooms lavishly furnished,

but his wife won't even live there.

Such was the case of Glen Erie in Colorado Springs, Colorado,

headquarters of The Navigators. That beautiful English-style mansion

was built by a man who had hoped to please his wife. But after being

there only a few days, she sighed, "Who needs this?" (What was she

going to do with thirty-five rooms anyway?) It was eventually sold to

The Navigators. They bought it and filled it! The irony of it all is

that those who are right with God ultimately derive benefit from

everyone's labor.

A Good Servant, A Poor Master

Money is a good servant but a poor master. The lure for gold is stronger than the human will, and with many a man it stands between his soul and his God. Someday it will be discovered that the bars

that shut many out of the kingdom of heaven are forged of silver and gold.

A Very Small Camel, A Very Large Needle

A wealthy television evangelist was dying in his mansion, and his

flock gathered round to ask him for his last wish. "Before I die," he

said, "I would like to take a ride." And they asked the rich pastor

what he required for that final ride before entering the kingdom of

heaven. And he said, "I would like a very small camel and a very

large needle."

Augmenting Means, Or Diminishing Wants

A major cause of arguments in the home is the worry about money.

Ben Franklin said that there are two ways of solving money problems:

augmenting your means -- that is, making more money -- or diminishing

your wants; either will do. But the best plan of all is to do both at

the same time: earn more money and diminish your wants. In this way,

you'll live well within your means and always have a surplus of money.

No Riches In Heaven

Dr. George W. Truett was entertained on one occasion in the home

of a wealthy oil man in Texas. After the dinner the man took him up to

the roof of his house and indicated huge fields of oil derricks, and

said, Dr. Truett, that's all mine. I came to this country twenty-

five years ago penniless, and now I own everything as far as you can

see in that direction." Then he turned to the opposite direction and

indicated waving fields of grain and said again, lt's all mine. I own

everything as far as you can see in that direction." Then he turned to

the east, and pointed to huge herds of cattle and said again, "It's

all mine, everything as far as you can see in that direction is mine."

One final time he turned toward the west and pointed to a great virgin

forest, and said again, lt's all mine. Twenty-five years ago I was

penniless, but I worked hard and saved, and today I own every thing as

far as you can see in this direction, that direction, that direction,

and this direction."

He paused for the expected praise, but to his astonishment it

didn't come. Dr. Truett laid a hand lovingly on his shoulder, pointed

upward and said, "My friend, how much do you own in that direction?"

The man dropped his head in shame and said, I never thought of that."

--Western Recorder

Emptied To Be Filled

One by one He took them from me

######All the things I valued most;

'Til I was empty-handed,

######Every glittering toy was lost.

And I walked earth's highways, grieving,

######In my rags and poverty.

Until I heard His voice inviting,

######"Lift those empty hands to Me!"

Then I turned my hands toward heaven,

######And He filled them with a store

Of His own transcendent riches,

######'Til they could contain no more.

And at last I comprehended

######With my stupid mind, and dull,

That God cannot pour His riches

######Into hands already full.

--Source Unknown

Stored In One of His Own Warehouses

William Randolph Hearst once read of an extremely valuable piece of

art, which he decided he must add to his extensive collection. He

instructed his agent to scour the galleries of the world to find the

masterpiece he was determined to have at any price. After many months

of painstaking search, the agent reported that the piece already

belonged to Mr. Hearst and had been stored in one of his warehouses

for many years.

It is tragic that many believers become entangled in a quest for

something more in the Christian life, for something special, something

extra that the "ordinary" Christian life does not possess. They talk

of getting more of Jesus Christ, more of the Holy Spirit, more power,

more blessings, a higher life, a deeper life -- as if the resources of

God were divinely doled out one at a time like so many pharmaceutical

prescriptions or were unlocked by some spiritual combination that only

an initiated few can know.

The Task

A man had built a prosperous business through zealous toil and

honest dealings. As he advanced in age, he felt concerned about the

future of his enterprise because he had no close relatives except

three nephews. One day he summoned the young men and said, "I have a

problem, and whoever comes up with the best solution will inherit all

that I possess." Giving each of them an equal sum of money, he

instructed them to buy something that would fill his large office.

"Spend no more than I've given you," he directed, "and be sure you're

back by sunset." All day long his nephews sought to fulfill their

mission. Finally, when the shadows lengthened, they obediently

returned to make their report. Their uncle asked to see their

purchases. The first dragged a huge bale of straw into the room. When

it was untied it made a pile that nearly hid two of the walls. After

it was cleared away, the second brought in two large bags of

thistledown, which when released, filled three-fourths of the room.

This was even better than the first. The third nephew stood silent

and forlorn. "And what have you to offer?" asked his aged relative.

"Uncle, I spent half of my money to feed a hungry child and gave

almost all the rest to the church. With the little I had left, I

bought these matches and a small candle." Then he lit the taper, and

its light filled every corner of the room! The kindly old man

realized that here was the noblest of them all. He blessed him for

making the best use of his gift and gave him all his possessions.

The World's Largest Sapphire

Roy Whetstine purchased a stone "from an amateur collector at an

Arizona mineral show for $10,00," according to "Newsweek," Nov. 24,

1986. It has since been "valued at as high as $2.28 million" and

declared to be the world's largest sapphire.

Western-world Christians have in their possession a precious gem of

far greater value which many treat just as cheaply. They fail to

avail themselves of the joy such wealth could bring them, fail to

share it with their own families, and even fail to carry it with them

to the house of God. They leave it lying wherever it happened to be

the last time the furniture was dusted under newspapers and magazines.

If it were stolen, they probably would not miss it for a month.

There are multitudes in many parts of the world who would gladly

give a month's salary, go for days without food, and walk great

distances to get one copy of the Bible to share with their entire

fellowship.

Let's not be too quick to cast aspersions upon the intelligence of

the amateur gem collector.

Value of the Incarnation Unrecognized

The "Associated Press" tells of a small Baltimore congregation that found an answer to its financial troubles -- hanging in the church. And it had been there for more than 25 years! The discovery came at a critical time, because inflation and a declining membership had left the church's future in doubt. But someone noticed that in the chapel was a piece of art that depicted the annunciation: the angel telling Mary she would give birth to the Son of God. It turned out to be a valuable woodblock print by Albrecht Durer, dated 1493. Some members expressed disbelief. They said in effect, "If it were real, why would it be hanging here?"

The event announced on that woodblock print is often treated with the same kind of underestimation by God's people. Yet the value of Jesus' birth is more than enough to eliminate the spiritual poverty that faces so many congregations. The truth that God came to earth in human form is reflected in the art, the hymnbooks, and the Bibles used by these churches. The significance of Christ's incarnation, however, goes unrecognized. Instead, attention is given to activities, strategies, and futile discussions that fail to consider the immeasurable worth of knowing who that baby was.

Riches in Christ

During the Depression, Charles Darrow could find no work. Although he was broke and his wife was expecting a baby, he wasn't discouraged. Every evening they played a game which he had devised. Remembering happy vacations in nearby Atlantic City, he laid out his own little boardwalk on a square piece of cardboard and pretended to be rich. On his "properties" he put miniature houses and hotels he had carved out of small pieces of wood. The game, called "Monopoly," was later marketed by Parker Brothers and ultimately made Darrow a millionaire.

Christians may not have earthly wealth, but they have a wealth that should cause us to never get discouraged. We have the wealth of our heavenly Father.

Tax officials value Gates home at $53 million

SEATTLE (Reuter) - Microsoft Corp.'s billionaire Chairman Bill Gates, who moved into his luxurious lakeside mansion last month after seven years of construction, faces a hefty tax bill that is likely to go even higher.

County officials sent Gates a notice valuing the 20,000-square-foot main home and four outbuildings at $53.4 million, meaning he probably will get a tax bill of more than $600,000 in January, chief deputy assessor Bob Roegner said Thursday.

The valuation -- done entirely from records to comply with Gates' request that assessors not come tromping through the property -- was made in July when the house was only 85 percent completed, so the assessment is likely to go up next year.

Gates, his wife, Melinda, and their 1-year-old daughter Jennifer moved into the 20-room house in mid-September, although workers are still finishing construction and ironing out technology glitches.

In addition to luxuries like a 60-foot-long L-shaped swimming pool with piped-in underwater music, a trampoline room with 20-foot ceilings and a dining room that can seat 100, the home features a network of 50 high-powered personal computers to monitor lighting, sound and climate.

Smart pins help the computers identify who is in a room at any given time to customize the environment, although Gates said this week the system has not been perfected.

"Sometimes it plays music I want, sometimes it plays something else," he said in a speech.

Roegner said the assessment was based on records of what Gates paid to build the house, consultations with representatives of the software mogul, the estimated value of the home's prime five-acre site in the exclusive enclave of Medina and previous visits to the property.

Gates asked assessors to work from documents to prevent details of the home's security system from being entered in to the public record, Roegner said.

"It was somewhat unusual, but the feeling here is that it was very understandable based on the circumstances, and the chief assessor felt he could do a fair assessment," Roegner said.

Gates, whose stake in the computer software giant is valued at nearly $40 billion, has no plans to contest the home's valuation, a spokesman said.

"He plans to pay his taxes like everybody else," Microsoft spokesman John Pinette said Thursday.

^REUTER@

How Poor Are We?

One day a father and his rich family took his son to a trip to the country with the firm purpose to show him how poor people can be. They spent a day and a night in the farm of a very poor family. When they got back from their trip the father asked his son,

“How was the trip?”

“Very good Dad!”

“Did you see how poor people can be?” the father asked.

“Yeah!”

“And what did you learn?”

The son answered, “I saw that we have a dog at home, and they have four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of the garden, they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lamps in the garden, they have the stars. Our patio reaches to the front yard, they have a whole horizon.” When the little boy was finishing, his father was speechless.

His son added, “Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are!”

Isn’t it true that it all depends on the way you look at things? If you have love, friends, family, health, good humor and a positive attitude towards life — you’ve got everything!

It's Hard To Handle Money

Luke 3:14

Most folks find if hard to handle a lot of new money. A friend of mind from Mt Carmel, IL, told me an interesting story about what happened there after WW II.

A scientist had found a way to get the sulfur out of the oil deposits around there and all sorts folks were rich over night. At one time their county had more Cadillacs per capita than any other in the USA.

But this new wealth came at a price. It ruined just about every family who struck it rich. They could not handle it. Two who did handle it had interesting strategies. One gave every bit of it to his church and promptly forgot he ever had it. The other put all of it in trust for his grandchildren with the idea that maybe by then the family would learn to handle it.

Riches Or Poverty - So What?

Philippians 4:4

”I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any … situation … “ (4:12) — For reading & meditation: Philippians 4:4-13

Here is another step that can move us from financial bondage to financial freedom. (3) Recognize that you are only free when you are free to use either poverty or plenty. There are two ways in which men and women try to defend themselves against financial disaster. One is by saving as much as possible in an attempt to avert it. The other is by renouncing money or material things entirely in order to be free from their clutches.

Both methods have disadvantages. The first, because it can cause miserliness and anxiety, and tends to make a person as metallic as the coins they seek to amass. The second, because it seeks to get rid of the difficulty by washing one’s hands of it entirely. In each case, there is a bondage — one is a bondage to material things, the other a bondage to poverty. The man who is free to use plenty only is bound by that, while the man who is free to use poverty only is also bound. They are both bound. But the person who, like Paul in the text before us today, has “learned the secret of being content … whether living in plenty or in want” is free, really free.

While waiting for a train in India, a missionary got into a conversation with a high-caste Indian. “Are you traveling on the next train?” the missionary asked. “No,” he replied, “that train has only third-class carriages. It’s all right for you, because you are a Christian. Third class doesn’t degrade you and first class doesn’t exalt you. You are above these distinctions, but I have to observe them.” Lifted above all distinctions!

PRAYER:

O Father, what a way to live — lifted above all distinctions. Plenty doesn’t entangle my spirit, and poverty doesn’t break it. No matter how I have lived in the past – this is how I want to live in the future. Help me, dear Lord. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY: James 2:1-10; 5:1-8

1. Where does favoritism come from?

2. What does James say about selfish living?

Lessons On Treasure

Luke 12:13

Luke 12:13–34 — Lessons on Treasure « Leader information shown in this fashion »

A. Discourse to the One in the Crowd — 12:13–21

1. … on Covetousness — 12:13–15 (NKJV): 13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

a. Deuteronomy 21:15–17 indicates that in some circumstances at least, the firstborn was to get a double portion — but he was not to get everything that was left

(A) what do this man’s words seem to indicate? « — a desire for fairness or equity »

(B) what do Jesus’ words tell us about the man’s attitude? « — that it went beyond demanding his fair share; this is maybe evident also because it is only the one brother who makes the request without his brother’s agreement, that is, this man was acting unilaterally »

(C) what is the tenth commandment (Exodus 20:17)? What does it show about the character of covetousness? « — it has to do with wanting things possessed by someone else »

(D) the word “beware” implies not merely avoiding but the taking of positive action, that the hearer should set up his or her guard to ward off the attacks of an enemy

b. what mistake did the man make concerning Jesus? « — he considered Jesus to be just another rabbi who would settle legal questions on material items; but Jesus’ rule was really directed to the spiritual »

c. what mistake do people make concerning success? « — that it can be measured in things, in possessions »

2. … on Treasures — 12:16–21 (NKJV): 16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

a. what marks the speech of the rich man and what does this indicate about him? « — the repeated use of “I” and “my” — shows that his life revolved strictly around himself »

b. the ideas of soul, life, and self are closely intertwined to the Jew; what constituted life for this rich man? « — it all had to do with self-indulgence; the pleasures of the flesh »

c. what responsibilities did not seem to enter his mind?

(A) responsibility to « his fellow men, especially the needy (1 John 3:17) »

(B) responsibility to « God (Leviticus 27:30) »

d. what fact should cause us to get our priorities straight? « — death; the fact of our mortality … that we have to give account of ourselves makes relying on things to be foolish »

e. what marks the difference between false and real treasure? « — its permanence; real treasure is closely linked to our relationship to God; false treasure has no connection with God, only self »

f. what forces cause Christians to follow this foolishness?

(A) « the pressures of the consumer society »

(B) « the materialistic bent of our education system »

(C) « temptation of Satan that we deserve ease, comfort »

B. Discourse to His Disciples « (note that these words are for believers) »

1. “Do Not Worry” — Luke 12:22–34, NKJV: 22 Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? 25 And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 26 If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith? 29 And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind.

a. what primary areas of concern does the Lord single out?

(A) « food (or sustenance) »

(B) « clothing (or shelter) »

b. how would you describe these two areas? « — they are both necessities of life »

c. how is verse 25 rendered in another translation? « — each translation is valid; “add a measure to his person”; see Psalm 39:5 for similar use of measure of length »

d. what two instances are given to show worrying even about the necessities is a waste of time?

(A) « God provides for the raven (birds) »

(B) « God clothes the lilies (grass) »

e. how are these two examples applicable?

(A) in the first case « — the relative helplessness of birds; why? the do not, indeed cannot, sow, reap, build barns, or provide for the future »

(B) in the second case « — both the transience and passivity of grass which cannot clothe itself yet is accorded great beauty in God’s generosity »

f. what should the child of God exercise in this connection? « — faith which will overcome an anxious mind; one opposite to faith is worry; it is a command “be not anxious” »

2. “What You should Seek” — Luke 12:30–34, NKJV: 30 “ For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. 31 But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. 32 Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

a. what is the similarity and difference between the world and the child of God in these matters?

(A) « both have need of these things »

(B) « the world seeks them, the Christian depends on God »

b. what should the Christian seek? … what is the promise?

(A) « the kingdom of God; which means? … that God should rule in our lives, in our church »

(B) « God delights in answering this desire in the Christian; and it doesn’t depend our power or our size; little flock speaks of paucity of true disciples »

c. for the child of God, by implication, what is the future of

(A) a generous nature? « — lasting riches »

(B) a grasping nature? « — riches that perish »

d. Do you think this passage means the Christians should not have possessions? … what does it mean? « — Paul enjoins the Christian to work and not be chargeable to others; giving is described as generosity. Both imply possessions are alright. But possessions must not possess the possessor; Ephesians 4:28, 1 Thessalonians 2:9, Thessalonians 3:10, 2 Corinthians 9:11 »

e. what is the danger, then, or riches? « — they shift our trust away from God; anyone’s heart is going to be with that which he values most. »

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Luke 16:19

Luke 16:19–31 — The Rich Man and Lazarus « Leader information shown in this fashion »

A. Luke 16:19-31 (NKJV): 19 There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. 20 But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21 desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 Then he cried and said, “Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.” 25 But Abraham said, “Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.” 27 Then he said, “I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.” 29 Abraham said to him, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.” 30 And he said, “No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.” 31 But he said to him, “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.”

1. who are the two characters in this story?

a. L_____________ the beggar « — the word was commonly used in a much weaker sense, of just any poor person. In Matthew 5:3 and Revelation 3:17 it is used in spiritually, the “poor in spirit” — Barnes says “Lazarus” means “a man destitute of help, a needy person, a poor man;” however, it seems more likely, as Gesenius and the Oxford Helps to the Study of th Bible (ca 1903, First Edition?) says, that it is the Greek form of Eleazar »

b. the rich man is unnamed but is sometimes refereed to as D__________ « ives — which is the Latin word for “rich man” »

2. how are we to view and to understand this story? — you may have been taught or believe differently from me, but I only ask that you consider

a. firstly, it is important to see it in its context, where it follows

(A) the parable of the U____________ « nfaithful » steward

(B) and also Jesus’ comments

(1) on that parable,

(2) on its relation to our use of worldly wealth

(3) on the money-grasping Pharisees

(C) so that we must take its primary purpose of this story to give further truth on the right use of riches

b. what is this story’s basic teaching respecting the relationship between spiritual position and the role of riches?

(A) does this teach that there is an inverse relationship between these two? … that having riches means you cannot get into heaven (see Luke 18:25)? … that those who are poor and suffer must get into heaven? « — no, there is nothing in this story that lays out this sort of cause and effect »

(B) rather it is that « — the possession of this world’s wealth is no evidence of God’s eternal favour, nor is its absence a mark of God’s judgment »

(C) the rich man produces evidence why he was in the state that he was in; what is that evidence? « — that he, like his five brothers, had failed to repent of his sin »

(D) what is it about riches that make this likely? « — pride and self-satisfaction; affluence and self-sufficiency; all these turn our thoughts away from God; there is also a presumption of God’s favour rests on the rich »

c. so, is this a parable, a story, or a history?

(A) many commentators refer to this as a parable, but note

(1) it is not called a parable

(2) it is not introduced in the parabolic fashion, such as “the kingdom of God is like …” « (cf. Once upon a time) »

(3) it names one of the characters, which would be unique among all the parables of Jesus

(B) others, otherwise Bible-believing, say that in order to teach this lesson on riches, Jesus uses

(1) a teaching of the Pharisees which had originated in Babylon and reflected pagan beliefs « — but Jesus made sure He identified Pharisee’s words (Mark 7:11) »

(2) a contemporary tale of Egyptian origin, or, the current Jewish views on the afterlife « — would Jesus build His teaching of truth on a false foundation? »

(C) so why do commentators take such a point of view? Well because there are some elements in this story that disagree with some of their own ideas

(1) those who teach S______ « oul » S________ « leep » at death

(2) those who fear that this passage may be wrongly used to support the teaching of Purgatory « – but this passage teaches just the opposite »

(3) those who believe that such judgment as “Dives” experienced doesn’t happen until Revelation 20:14 « – proper exegesis will use the clear, didactic sections to interpret the sections of the Bible that are full of imagery, and not the opposite way around »

(D) it is, therefore, my position that it is legitimate to view this as a history, the recounting of an event; but even if it is to be taken as a parable, or a contemporary story, we must never consider Jesus as a child of His times and that we can discard what the passage reveals about life after death; for Jesus is the truth, John 14:6

3. let us look at a few of the truths about the afterlife found in Jesus’ teaching in this passage

B. Luke 16:22a (NKJV): 22 So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom.

1. when a person dies, his body returns to D______ « ust » and his spirit returns to G_____ « od who gave it » (Ecclesiastes 12:7)

2. in the Hebrew (the Old Testament) the word sheol is used

a. purely and simply as the G_______ « rave” » (Genesis 37:35) « and many other places » ; also as in Psalm 30:3, « metaphorically to a person having come near to death »

b. as the place of departed spirits, good and bad alike, usually translated in the AV as H______ « ell » Psalm 139:8 « et alii »

c. as the place of punishment of the wicked, translated as in the previous item, but also as P____ « it … Numbers 16: 30– 33, Psalm 9:17, Proverbs 23:14 »

3. this story takes places prior to the cross; and we are told in it that there was one part of the place of departed spirits for the faithful, called “A____________ « braham’s » B________ « osom » “

4. at and after the cross, the spirit of the believer is taken into P__________ « aradise » (Luke 23:43) « — the connecting of “today” with “I say” in that verse as a figure of speech to emphasize the solemnity of the situation is ridiculous; a person being strangled on the cross does not need to waste words for emphasis! No, Jesus says what He means; the one thief will accompany Him into Paradise »

5. so, either these two terms denote the same thing, or, in the events that are described in Ephesians 4:8–10, 1 Peter 3:18–20, 4:6, Christ led the spirits of the blessed dead from the first of these to the latter (which included the penitent thief). This event is described in the Apostle’s Creed as “… descended into hell …”

6. now we know that when the believer dies, their spirit goes to be with (see Philippians 1:23, 2 Corinthians 5:8) C___________ « hrist »

C. Luke 16:22b–23a (NKJV): The rich man also died and was buried. 23 And being in torments in Hades,

1. despite his wealth, the great leveller also strikes the rich man

2. does his wealth, his burial, give him special position in the afterlife? « … no … don’t expect the funeral or eulogy to save! »

3. what is that state? « … one of suffering torment; see also v. 24b »

D. Luke 16:23b (NKJV): he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. … and other parts of the story — what does this tell us about the state of the departed spirits?

1. they are « aware (conscious) »

2. they can « reason and observe »

3. they can « see (somewhat) beyond their own position »

E. Luke 16:25b–26 (NKJV): but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26 And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.”

1. what does this tell us about the state of the comforted and the state of the tormented? « — there is no movement from the one state to the other — a refutation of Purgatory »

2. Hebrews 9:27 confirms this « — no change in state between death and the actual pronouncement of judgment (so it is correct in light of God’s perfect knowledge that torment begins at death) »

F. Luke 16:29 (NKJV): Abraham said to him, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.” — consider this verse, the record of the transfiguration (Luke 9:28-31), the account of the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28:7–19); « Be very careful how the following item is treated; there is such a prevalence today, even among Christians, to enquire into the occult that warnings are needed on this subject »

1. what do we learn concerning departed spirits? « — they have, or may be given, certain levels of knowledge in their time of rest »

G. Luke 16:31 (NKJV): But he said to him, “If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.” — how do you know this to be a true statement? « — see John 12:10 (Lazarus) and Matthew 28:11-15 (Jesus) refusal to listen »

H. So this view of this passage is consistent with the Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 (chapter 31, §1): The bodies of men after death return to dust, and see corruption {Gen 3:19; Ac 13:36} but their souls, which neither die nor sleep, having an immortal subsistence, immediately return to God who gave them. {Ec 12:7} The souls of the righteous being then made perfect in holiness, are received into paradise, where they are with Christ, and behold the face of God in light and glory, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies; {Lu 23:43; 2 Co 5:1,6,8; Php 1:23, Heb 12:23} and the souls of the wicked are cast into hell; where they remain in torment and utter darkness, reserved to the judgment of the great day; {Jude 6-7; 1 Pe 3:19; Lu 16:23-24} besides these two places, for souls separated from their bodies, the Scripture acknowledgeth none.

On the Jericho Road

Luke 18:15

Luke 18:15–34 — On the Jericho Road « Leader information shown in this fashion »

A. Jesus Blesses the Little Children, Luke 18:15–17 (NKJV)

1. expanded with parallels in Matthew 19:13–15 and Mark 10:13–16)

a. 15 Then they also brought infants to Him that He might touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus

b. {Mark notes here, “when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said”}

c. called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God

d. {Matthew: “heaven”}.

e. 17 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”

f. {Matthew adds, “and He laid His hands on them” and Mark writes, “And He took them up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them.”}

2. some notes: «

a. mothers? fathers? … “them” in ‘rebuked them” is masculine but that could equally apply to both

b. these are little children, babes in arms; too young to understand the difference between right and wrong

c. the word “touch” is used of holding or of laying hands upon in blessing as Matthew above »

3. what do the actions and words tells us about …

a. … the bringers (parents)? « — they considered Jesus as able to spiritually benefit their most precious possession »

b. … the disciples (Compare Luke 8:49)? « — don’t bother the Lord with little babies; He’s too important! »

c. … the Lord Jesus? « — Jesus, as God, views as important all of mankind; … what blessing would these have later received!?! »

4. what qualities of babes are needed to “receive the kingdom?”

a. « whole-hearted trust »

b. « utter dependence »

c. « unworldliness, the absence of self-righteousness »

B. The Rich Young Ruler, Luke 18:18–23 (NKJV)

1. expanded with parallels in Matthew 19:16–22 & Mark 10:17–22)

a. {Mark tells us “Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him…”}

b. 18 Now a certain ruler asked Him, saying, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” 19 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.

c. {Matthew records his words as “… what good thing …” and that Jesus said here, “But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “which ones?”}

d. 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Honour your father and your mother.’”

e. {Matthew also includes ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself’ and Mark, ‘Do not defraud.’}

f. 21 And he said, “All these things I have kept from my youth.”

g. {Matthew calls him “young man” and adds that he asked, Jesus, “What do I still lack”}

h. {Marks tells that “Jesus, looking at him, loved him.”}

i. 22 So when Jesus heard these things, He said to him, “You still lack one thing,

j. {Matthew puts it, “If you want to be perfect,”}

k. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”

l. {Mark relates it, “…take up the cross, and follow me”}

m. 23 But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich.

2. some notes «

a. the word for ruler is general, applying to the Sanhedrin, the head of a synagogue, a magistrate, or secular authority

b. there are few if any examples in the whole Talmud of a rabbi being addressed in this way (Leon Morris, Tyndale)

c. commandments quoted are the last part of the “ten words,” the “Second Table” as in Exodus 20:12–16, Deut. 5:16–20 »

3. does Jesus repudiate the title “good?” « — no; if that were His intent, he would have had to claim sinfulness »

4. what should Jesus’ response make the young man realize?

a. « the authority of Jesus he is admitting by this title »

b. « the character of God and his own unfitness in God’s presence »

5. Galatians 3:24; why does Jesus response centre on the Law? « — it reveals to people of the need for salvation; Romans 7:7 »

6. draw a word picture of this young man

a. « enthusiastic (running to Jesus) »

b. « thoughtless in his greeting to Jesus »

c. « genuinely, but superficially, pursuing God’s law (compare to Paul in Philippians 3:6) »

d. « possessed by his possessions »

7. how does the young ruler fare when compared against the First Table of the ten words, specifically Exodus 20:3? « — he had let riches become his god, so that even convicted of what he should do, he couldn’t turn away from them »

8. in verse 22, what 2 things did this young man need to do? Why?

a. « come (which meant leaving all else behind) to Jesus; you cannot serve two masters (Luke 16:13) »

b. « follow Jesus; you must make Jesus your master »

C. The Peril of Riches, Luke 18:24–27 (NKJV)

1. expanded with parallels in Matthew 19:23–26 & Mark 10:23–27

a. 24 And when Jesus saw that he became very sorrowful, He said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!

b. {Mark tells us the “disciples were astonished at His words” at which Jesus rephrased the statement as “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God!”}

c. 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 And those who heard it

d. {Matthew and mark identify these as His disciples}

e. said, “Who then can be saved?” 27 But He said, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.”

2. some notes «

a. the camel and the needle do not need to be taken at other than face value; a humorous way of making a point, like the beam in one’s eye

b. Abraham pleading with God saw no limitation in His ability to show mercy on such a wicked city as Sodom (Genesis 18) »

3. why do riches inhibit coming to God?

a. « they cause self-reliance rather than God-reliance »

b. « they control us, our actions, our thoughts, our love »

c. « they loom important, taking precedence »

4. are only monetary riches in view here? … discuss. « — it could be the riches of intellect, of skills and talents; what deposes God »

5. Job 42:2: why are they no obstacle to God? « — because nothing can stand in the way of His purposes »

D. Rewards of Discipleship, Luke 18:28–30 (NKJV)

1. expanded with parallels in Matthew 19:27–30 & Mark 10:28–31

a. 28 Then Peter said, “See, we have left all and followed You.” 29 So He said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you,

b. {Matthew includes “ that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”}

c. there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, 30 who shall not receive many times more in this present time,

d. {Mark reports, “for My sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time – houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions –”}

e. and in the age to come eternal life.”

f. {Then Matthew and Mark quote Jesus, “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” and Matthew goes on in 20:1–16 to relate the parable of workers in the vineyard}

2. Some notes «

a. Matthew’s record of Peter’s words is literally, “look at us! We have left all” … so, what’s in it for us?!?!? »

3. what are the rewards? … what else? « — many times in excess of whatever has been given up; but also sharing in Jesus’ suffering »

4. Give a brief synopsis of the parable in Matthew 20:1–16

a. a man hired labourers « for his vineyard; some in the morning, some at noon, some in the afternoon; at the end of the day, he paid them all the same, a full day’s wages; when those who worked all day murmured the owner reminded them that he had paid them in full just as they had agreed. »

b. what does this inform us about the rewards of discipleship? « — they are completely under the control of the Sovereign Lord; the exalted Son of Man »

E. Jesus predicts His death a third time, Luke 18:31–34 (NKJV)

1. expanded with parallels in Matthew 20:17–19 & Mark 10:32–34

a. {Mark commences this part of the narrative with the words, “Now they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was going before them; and they were amazed. And as they followed they were afraid.”}

b. 31 Then He took the twelve aside and said to them, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of Man will be accomplished.

c. {In Matthew and Mark He says he will be betrayed.}

d. 32 For He will be delivered to the Gentiles and will be mocked and insulted and spit upon. 33 They will scourge Him and kill Him. And the third day He will rise again.

e. {Matthew gives the method of death, crucifixion.}

f. 34 But they understood none of these things; this saying was hidden from them, and they did not know the things which were spoken.

g. {after this Matthew (20:20-28) and Mark (10:35-45) relate the request of the mother of James and John for them.}

2. some notes «

a. Previously foretold in 9:22 and 9:44. At this point, they are on the road heading through Jericho and on to Jerusalem; see Luke 18:35; »

3. why did the disciples not understand Jesus’ very clear words? « — they were hidden at that time to be a witness later (John 12:16) »

Putting Money In Its Place

1 Timothy 3:3

Paul in writing to Timothy (1 Tim. 3:3, 8) and to Titus (1:7) about the qualifications for servants (deacons) and shepherds (elders) of the church is unanimous in one item: that they have the proper attitude toward money. In each of these verses we find a phrase similar to "not greedy for money." It is a great temptation to assume that because someone is wealthy that they are thus qualified for one of these offices.

It is no less of a temptation for a church when its balance sheet shows a good amount in the bank to feel that they are doing well. Yet, in the letters to the churches in Revelation, (3:17, NKJV) the church at Laodicea is admonished, “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked—". There is the a key: has money made us feel we do not need God. Some would relegate these letters to apply only to those particular churches; others as prophetic of various periods in church age (interesting how it is always our church in our time that is the faithful church in Philadelphia, isn’t it?), but I believe that all of these churches exist today, and a bit of each in every local church: so there is a warning here for us.

Well, David gives to us the perespective that we should have respecting riches back in Psalm 49:6-9 (NKJV): “6 Those who trust in their wealth And boast in the multitude of their riches, 7 None [of them] can by any means redeem [his] brother, Nor give to God a ransom for him — 8 For the redemption of their souls [is] costly, And it shall cease forever — 9 That he should continue to live eternally, [And] not see the Pit.” All the money in the world cannot give spiritual salvation. Our redemption is priceless. The message that we bear to our community and to the world is beyond price. Let the servants of the church never forget this. Let its spiritual shepherds keep this in the forefront of their minds. “… knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, [like] silver or gold, from your aimless conduct [received] by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” (1 Peter 1:18-19 NKJV)

Jeshurun Waxed Fat

Deuteronomy 32:15

But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked … then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation. — Deuteronomy 32:15.

When prosperity or riches cause me to lightly esteem the Rock of our salvation, then that prosperity or those riches are a curse and not a blessing. David never got beyond looking upon himself as poor and needy. David appreciated God’s salvation till his last day. “Although my house be not so with God,” were among his last words. When oxen or Christians wax fat, they kick. — L. Sheldrake.

Yes, He is mine! and naught of earthly things,

Not all the charms of pleasure, wealth and power,

The fame of heroes, or the pomp of kings,

Could tempt me to forego His love an hour.

“Go, worthless world,” I cry, “with all that’s thine;

Go — I my Saviour’s am, and He is mine.”

Being the King's Children

Judges 8:18

Each one resembled the children of a king. Judges 8:18.

Why art thou, being the king’s son, lean from day to day? wilt thou not tell me? 2 Samuel 13:4.

Might not our heavenly Father justly complain, when He has freely given us so much, that so little should be appropriated and used? May we seek more to live in abiding union and fellowship with Christ, learn more the riches treasured up in Christ, draw more daily from Christ, enjoy more of Christ, grow more like Christ, work more for Christ, bring more glory to Christ. Then the days as they pass will be as the days of heaven upon earth.

Child of God, by Christ’s salvation,

rise o’er sin and fear and care,

Joy to find in every station,

something still to do or bear.

Think what Spirit dwells within thee,

think what Father’s smiles are thine,

Think that Jesus died to win thee-

child of God, wilt thou repine? — H. F. Lyte.

Thanks-giving Treasure

Luke 12:33

Over 200 years ago during the heart of the Methodist revival in England, John Wesley spoke fearfully about the movement’s ability to sustain itself. Even as thousands and thousands were joining his ranks, he spoke prophetically about the inevitable decline and dissolution of this revival. What would prompt his despairing prediction in the throes of revival’s raging fires? Wesley feared the danger of wealth and its expected increase as a result of his “Methodist” renewal. He wrote in his journal: “I fear, wherever riches have increased, the essence of religion has decreased in the same proportion. Therefore, I do not see how it is possible, in the nature of things, for any revival of religion to continue long. For religion must necessarily produce both industry and frugality, and these cannot but produce riches. But as riches increase, so will pride, anger and love of the world in all its branches.”(1)

The declining numbers in churches in the Western World seem to affirm that Wesley’s fears were warranted. Indeed, Christian leaders speculate that if current trends continue in England, for example, Methodists will cease to exist in that country in thirty years.(2) And while the increase of wealth might only be one factor of many that has contributed to this decline, the decline has happened and is happening nevertheless. Corroborating this fear is the best-selling book by historian Philip Jenkins. Jenkins has documented the rapid rise of Christianity in the Global South in his book THE NEXT CHRISTENDOM: THE COMING OF GLOBAL CHRISTIANITY. Could the growth of Christianity in the Global South be related to their relative poverty, and the decline of Christianity in the Global North be related to our wealth? Wesley seemed to think so.

But long before Wesley uttered his fears, Jesus warned his disciples: “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and riches” (Luke 16:13). Indeed, it is hard to read Luke’s gospel and not be convicted about the dangers Jesus associated with wealth.

AS RICHES INCREASE, SO WILL PRIDE, ANGER, AND LOVE OF THE WORLD IN ALL ITS BRANCHES. . . Wesley’s words haunt me, just as Jesus’s warnings haunt me. For when I examine my checkbook, my time commitments, and where I set my heart’s affections, I sometimes have the sneaking suspicion that I am serving another god. It is a god that tempts me to busyness and distraction; it is a god that wants me to sacrifice worship, commitment to my church, and devotion to the Lord in order to invest my time, treasure, and talents in the “love of the world in all its branches.”

Sadly, as Wesley knew, the very blessing of wealth for Christianity, as a result of Christian frugality and diligence, can equally be a curse that would sell out its very soul. My own life is a microcosm of this struggle, just as the Western Church struggles with these issues closely related to wealthy societies: fragmentation of lives, rampant consumerism, efficiency over substance, and shallow, easy faith.

So, in this season of thanks-giving, how do we as rich, Western Christians escape the perils of over-abundance? Jesus instructed his disciples to “sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves purses which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven. . . . For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Luke 12:33-34). The answer is not necessarily in the abolition of wealth, but rather in wealth’s proper use in our world -- as a blessing for others, and not just for our own use!

John Wesley understood this, and in the spirit of Jesus re-iterates the same idea: “We ought not to forbid people to be diligent and frugal: we must exhort all Christians, to gain all they can, and to save all they can... What way then (I ask again) can we take that our money may not sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who gain all they can, and save all they can, will likewise give all they can, then the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven.”(3)

________

1. Cited in an article by Philip Yancey, “Traveling with Wesley” Christianity Today, November 2007, Vol. 51, No. 11.

2. Ibid.

3. Cited from the The Works of the Rev. John Wesley, vol. XV (London: Thomas Cordeux, 1786).

________

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[Original illustration at this number was a duplicate of HolwickID #20950]

Pumping the Oil Well

But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions. — Obadiah 17.

Many a poor man has had an oil well on his farm and didn’t know it. If he found that he did have such a treasure he would lose no time in tapping its resources … God gives us oil wells but He does not pump the oil for us. All things are ours in Christ, but we must make what is ours factually our very own actually Appreciating what is yours never makes you rich, but appropriating it will. “The same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.” — Vance Havner.

Not what we have, but what we use;

Not what we see, but what we choose.

These are the things that mar or bless,

The sum of human happiness.

Deliverance From Wealth's Snare

Ezekiel 7:19

They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the Lord: they shall not satisfy their souls … because it is the stumblingblock of their iniquity. — Ezekiel 7:19.

Not only is the love of money a root of all evil, but riches take to themselves wings and flee away. The Lord is able and willing to deliver us from its snare. If it has an attraction to us let us confess this to the Lord. and seek for grace to rise above its snare and temptation.

Your gold will waste and wear away,

Your honors perish in a day.

My portion never can decay,

Christ for me.

Wayfaring Pilgrims

James 2:5

Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom? — James 2:5.

Some of the brightest Christians I have known have been among those who have the fewest earthly comforts, and they have taught me that the less we are occupied with the happiness of present possessions the more room there is for the “joy of faith.” He who, being a child of God, can sing,

“No cottage in the wilderness —

No spot of land do I possess,

A poor wayfaring man,”

is, generally speaking, the one who will find it most easy to look from earth toward the eternal home.

A tent or a cottage, why should I care?

They’re building a palace for me over there!

Though exiled from home, yet still I can sing:

All glory to God, I’m a child of the King. — Harriet E. Buell (1877)

Struggling Against the World's Spirit

1 John 2:16

All that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father. — 1 John 2:16.

The spirit of the world is forever altering; as we try to seize it in one form it eludes us in another. In the day of Noah the spirit of the world was violence. In Elijah’s day it was idolatry. In the day of Christ it was power, concentrated and condensed in the government of Rome. In ours perhaps, it is love of money. It enters in different proportions in different bosoms; it is found in different forms in contiguous towns, in fashionable resorts, and in the commercial cities. It is this thing at Athens and another in Corinth. This is the spirit of the world, a thing in my heart and yours, to be struggled against in the silent battle within our souls. — F. W. Robertson

Seek not the world!

‘tis a vain show at best;

Bow not before its idol shrine;

in God find Thou thy joy and rest.

Topsy-Turvy Christian Ethic

Luke 6:24

Do you know anyone who is financially well off and secure, who has an abundance of things and often dines in the best restaurants, who enjoys life and has a good time, and who is well thought of in the community? You may be such a person yourself, but if not, wouldn’t you like to be? In such a situation we could declare that life is good, that we are content, and that the future looks bright.

Do you know anyone who is poor, hungry, grieving, hated, excluded, reviled, and defamed? I sincerely hope you are not such a person. We consider anyone who has all these woes as an extremely unfortunate individual indeed.

And yet, did you hear the words of Jesus as recorded in the passage we read from the Gospel of Luke? “Woe to you who are rich ... Woe to you who are full now ... Woe to you who are laughing now ... Woe to you when all speak well of you....”

“Blessed are you who are poor ... Blessed are you who are hungry now ... Blessed are you who weep now ... Blessed are you when people hate you, exclude you, revile you, and defame you....”

What is going on here? Doesn’t Jesus have it all upside down? This sounds like topsy-turvy Christianity to me.

Should Pastor David Drive A Lincoln Continental?

James 5:1

Sermon in Book of James series, #15. James 5:1-6

SHOULD PASTOR DAVID DRIVE A LINCOLN CONTINENTAL?

================================================

I. My nice car.

A. I get many comments on my Lincoln.

B. The guilties of wealth.

II. James's radical blast.

A. James sounds like an O.T. prophet on the issue of wealth.

B. It still scandalizes us today.

C. We need to be warned, because we envy the rich.

III. Soaking the rich.

A. James is addressing the rich pagans outside the church. 5:1

B. No rich people in heaven?

C. Wealth has a way of demanding our allegiance. Matt 6:24

IV. Here come de judge.

A. James says we are in the "last days." 5:3

B. Our treasure can be secure in heaven, or rusted on earth.

V. Difficult truths.

A. Everyone will answer to God.

B. The way we live shows what we really believe.

C. The longer we live a certain way, the harder our hearts become.

D. Is your hope in God, or your money? 1 Timothy 6:17-18

Don't You Wish Your Daddy Was This Rich?

Amos 3:15

Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev has a 22-year-old daughter who is a college student in the United States. When she visits New York City he wants her to have a place to stay, so he purchased a 10-room apartment for $88 million.