Last night’s Bible study looked at Jesus’ words about money, a very practical subject that is a part of our everyday lives but which also points us to eternity. In Matthew 6, Jesus reminded us that we cannot serve two Masters and must make a choice between serving God or money. Money of itself is neutral, but our tendency to greed (see Luke 12:15-21) makes us place more importance on the temporary comfort and security it represents on being ‘rich towards God.’
Jesus reminds us that money is transitory, so we should focus more on eternal treasure that will last. The farmer in Luke 12:16-21 is called a fool by God because he thought only of his own needs and comfort instead of using his surplus harvest to bless others. Jesus repeatedly spoke about our attitudes to money and giving. It’s not the amount that matters as much as our trust in God and our willingness to obey Him (as Mark 12:41-44 demonstrates.)
Giving to the needy is commended throughout Scripture (see 2 Cor 8 and 9 in particular). God is a cheerful giver Himself, and our giving means we can use our ‘worldly wealth’ for kingdom purposes. This does not need to be ostentatious or to be noticed and commended on earth (see Matt 6:2-4). Being faithful and trustworthy with money is necessary, and Jesus told the Parable of the Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1-15) to demonstrate in part the difference between the world’s way of doing things (where dishonesty is commended!) and God’s way.
To live rightly, we need to see our possessions and money as gifts from God, given to us to steward wisely, instead of as something to hoard and use for only selfish purpose. God gives tu us and provides for our needs (Matt 6:25-34), but we must live knowing that life ‘does not consist in an abundance of possessions’ (Luke 12:15). Eternal life is knowing God and Jesus Christ (John 17:3) and recognising His rule and reign over every area of our life. We must be prudent and wise with regard to money (including paying taxes, Mark 12:13-17), but we must also live in ways that honour God (see Mal 3:10-12, Matt 19:21-30). Sacrificial giving and living are required; this is how Jesus Himself lived and how He commands His disciples to live.
