Kingdom Fidelity
July 17, 2022
What does it mean to be faithful? Most of us define it based on what we expect from others – our spouse, co-works, boss, and friends. But when Jesus talked about faithfulness, it was a call to personal responsibility. According to Jesus, faithfulness in all things is defined by faith in the small stuff. Join us for part 2 of Kingdom Economics, where we will learn about the power of fidelity.
Passage
Luke 16:10-18
Principles
The ____ of Kingdom Fidelity:
…_________ is as _______ does
The ______ of Kingdom Fidelity:
…Reveals the motives of the ______
…Freedom from the _______
The _______ of Kingdom Fidelity:
…______ _______________
Practice
Seek His kingdom and righteousness before you seek your own
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Should a person’s faithfulness to their marriage vows affect our view of that person in other areas of life? Why or why not?
When is divorce the result of broken marriage vows, and when is it the breaking of the marriage vows?
HEAR
Read Matthew 19:1-3
- What motivated the Pharisees to ask Jesus about marriage and divorce?
- What difference might the words “for any cause” have on the answer to the question, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife”?
- Does this question reflect a bias against women?
Read Matthew 19:4-6
- What does Jesus’ quote to answer the Pharisees’ question?
- By describing marriage as the union of a man and woman into one flesh, what is Jesus saying about divorce? Given this concept, is it accurate to think of divorce as a violent act (ripping flesh apart)? Why or why not?
- Read Malachi 2:16. Why do you think God hates divorce? Does that mean He also hates divorced people?
Read Matthew 19:7-9
- Read Deuteronomy 24:1-4. Do you believe the Pharisees had a legitimate counterpoint to Jesus’ argument? Why or why not?
- How did Jesus answer their question? What does His answer imply about the law of Moses?
- Some have described this as an example of God making accommodations for our sin. Do you agree? Why or why not?
- How might Deuteronomy 24:1-4 have been an attempt to protect women? How had the Pharisees abused this “loophole” for their benefit?
Read Matthew 19:10-12
- What does the Disciple's reaction in verse 10 imply about their understanding of Jesus’ teachings about divorce and remarriage?
- What tension is Jesus creating? Why should this be a tension to manage rather than a tension to be resolved?
- How should the church reflect God’s love for people and hatred for divorce?
HUDDLE
What does Jesus’ teaching about marriage in Matthew 19 teach us about cultural debates related to marriage and gender identity? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time.
Daily Reading
This month’s daily Bible readings come from the book of Proverbs. These short statements are attributed to various authors but are all divinely inspired to teach us the value of wisdom. As you read, invite the Holy Spirit to grant you discernment and wisdom.
- Day 1: Proverbs 15
- Day 2: Proverbs 16
- Day 3: Proverbs 17
- Day 4: Proverbs 18
- Day 5: Proverbs 19
- Day 6: Proverbs 20
- Day 7: Proverbs 21
Think Deeper
- How do you define “being faithful”? Does faithfulness look the same in every relationship?
- When have you ever been unfaithful? How did you justify your behavior?
- Should faithfulness to God above all be our goal? Why or why not?
Suggested Reading
The Meaning of Marriage, by Timothy Keller
The Jesus I Never Knew, by Philip Yancey
What’s So Amazing About Grace, by Philip Yancey
Check out these books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB