Lessons from a Conman
July 10, 2022
Most people divide the study of economics into micro and macro categories. But when Jesus taught on the economy, He defied those categories by teaching Kingdom Economics. Join us as we explore Luke 16 to learn about God’s economy and how to get a great return on your investment.
Passage
Luke 16:1-14
Principles
Three Kingdom Principles of Economics:
Your possessions are ____
Your possessions are a ____
Your possessions are a _____________
Practice
Use your limited ____ and passing ____________ to impact your _____.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Does it make you uncomfortable to talk about money in church? Why or why not?
HEAR
Read Acts 4:32-37
- Have you ever experienced the kind of community described in these verses? If not, what experience comes closest for you?
- How did the early church keep “no needy person” from being among them? How does the church do that today?
- Would this same experience be possible today? Why or why not?
Read Acts 5:1-6
- How would you explain what Ananias and Sapphira were trying to do?
- Was their sin holding back some of the money from the sale of their property? Why or why not?
- What practical lesson should believers take away from what happened to Ananias?
Read Acts 5:7-11
- Why do you think Peter asked Sapphira the same question he had asked her husband when he already knew the answer? Was he setting Sapphira up? Why or why not?
- Read verses 5 and 11 again. What are some possible reasons this experience struck fear in the hearts of the early church?
- Based on this passage, how seriously do you believe God takes our stewardship? Why does it matter so much?
- What could Aspire Church do better to reflect the unity and commitment of the early church? What would that require of you?
HUDDLE
How faithful are you to stewardship the money, time, and talents God has entrusted you? What do you do to ensure you remain faithful in these areas? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray.
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 8
- Day 2: Proverbs 9
- Day 3: Proverbs 10
- Day 4: Proverbs 11
- Day 5: Proverbs 12
- Day 6: Proverbs 13
- Day 7: Proverbs 14
Think Deeper
- Have you ever felt unethical people thrive while honest people struggle?
- How do you define wealth?
- How much money would it take for you to feel secure and comfortable?
Suggested Reading
How to be Rich, by Andy Stanley
The Power of Half, by Kevin Salwen
More Than Enough, by Dave Ramsey
Passing the Plate, by Christian Smith
Check out these books on our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB