Guided Discussion: Money

Opener

“What are some things that we need money for?”

Prompts if no response: Tithing, offerings, electricity, water, mortgage, rent, charity, gas, food, clothing, cars, house and car repairs, furniture, etc.

Discussion question 1:

What are some wise ways to use money? What are some unwise ways?

Prompts if no response: Wise—helping others in need, investing in things we want and need that will last a long time, enjoying new experiences. Unwise—spending on just what we want and not saving for helping others or hard times, overbuying entertainment, taking advantage of people when lending money, etc.

Discussion question 2:

What are some warnings that the Bible gives about money?

Prompts if no response: Don’t spend all you have but save for when you might need it; be a cheerful giver and help those who aren’t as blessed as us; don’t be a slave to debt; avoid coveting and greed, etc.

Discussion question 3:

The Bible says that you can’t serve both God and money at the same time. What does this mean, and what are some examples of “serving mammon”?

Prompts if no response: Money can become an idol that people value more than trusting God or serving God. Examples include greedily keeping all that we have and not sharing with others, spending irresponsibly so that we can have pleasurable things rather than taking pleasure in doing what God says, etc.

Hypothetical 1:

What would you think or say if you heard this: “It’s my money, and I can spend it whatever way I want.”

Prompts if no response: That saying is not true if you say you are a Christian; God is the one who gives us any wealth at all, so it is really His money. There are some things that we are told to do with our money, such as tithes, helping others, etc.

Hypothetical 2:

What would you say if you were told: “Spending money is more fun than saving it.”

Prompts if no response: Think of the future too; it depends what you are spending it on.

 

Closer

What are some ways we can think about how we spend our money?

Prompts if no response: Wait a day before buying it; consider if the purchase is wise, greedy, or helpful.

 

Scriptures for more study or reference

Proverbs 22:7; Luke 16:10-14; Deuteronomy 8:18; Proverbs 13:1; 2 Corinthians 9:6-9; Matthew 6:24; Ecclesiastes 5:10