Rich in Treasure
August 23, 2026
Jesus told a story about a successful man whose land produced an abundant harvest. His business had done so well that he decided to build larger barns, store everything for himself, retire early, and enjoy the good life. But his plans ended suddenly when his life was required of him. The tragedy of the Rich Fool was not merely that he died unexpectedly. It was that he spent his life accumulating possessions but never became rich toward God. Join us for part three of Rich! as we discover that God gives us extra not merely to increase our standard of living, but to increase our standard of giving.
Passage
Luke 12:13-21
Principle
God gives us extra not merely to increase our ##standard## ##of## ##living##, but to increase our ##standard## ##of## ##giving##.
Practice
Complete the Financial Generosity section of the My 2027 Rhythm of Generosity card.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
- What is something you once thought would make you feel financially secure, but later realized did not provide as much security as you expected?
- When you receive “extra”— a raise, bonus, gift, refund, inheritance, or unexpected windfall —what is your first instinct: save it, spend it, give it, pay down a balance, or something else?
HEAR
Read Matthew 6:19-24
- What reasons does Jesus give for not laying up treasures on earth?
- What does Jesus mean when He says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”?
- Jesus says, “You cannot serve God and money.” What does it look like when money begins to function like a master?
Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
- What does Paul say about the relationship between sowing and reaping?
- According to verse 7, what kind of giver does God love? (Hint: Think “JOY” Box!)
- In verses 8–11, why does God provide for and enrich His people?
Read Acts 5:1-11
- According to Peter, was the sin of Ananias and Sapphira that they kept part of the money, or that they lied about what they had given?
- Why do you think they wanted to appear more generous than they actually were?
- What does this passage teach us about the danger of performative generosity?
HUDDLE
- Is there any “extra” in your life that you have assumed is only for you?
- Where are you most tempted to build bigger barns instead of practicing greater generosity?
- Are you more concerned with appearing generous or becoming generous?
- Do you have an intentional rhythm of financial generosity? What would be a faithful next step for your household be in 2027?
- This week, prayerfully review the Financial Generosity section of the My 2027 Rhythm of Generosity card. Talk about it, invite accountability, and pray together.
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Luke 12:13-21
- Day 2: Matthew 6:19-24
- Day 3: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
- Day 4: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
- Day 5: Proverbs 3:5-10
- Day 6: Malachi 3:6-12
- Day 7: Acts 4:32-37
Passage to Memorize: Luke 12:15
Think Deeper
- How much money would it take to make you feel completely secure?
- What will become of all you possess after you die?
- Do you have an intentional rhythm of generosity? If so, what is it?
Suggested Resources
How to Be Rich, by Andy Stanley
The Treasure Principle, by Randy Alcorn
The Generosity Practice, by John Mark Comer
(Wednesday Night Group Study begins on August 19 @ 6 p.m.)
Financial Peace University, by Dave Ramsey
(Wednesday Night Group Study begins on August 19 @ 6 p.m.)
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.