I Timothy 6:10, 17-19
Misquote: Money in the root of all evil
The actual saying: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.
How do I know if I have a love of money?- 1 (Ecclesiastes 5:10)
“Whoever loves money never has enough.”
Context: Major theme is Godliness
Godliness with contentment is great gain. (6:6)
- “The richest people are not those who have the most. The richest people are those who need the least
- Discontentment can make a rich person poor, and contentment can make a poor person rich.
- The love of money robs a person of contentment.
The Truth:
Having money is not bad. It’s loving money that is dangerous.
Two Extreme Views
The Prosperity Gospel | The Poverty Gospel |
– If I’m godly, if I have enough faith
– If I give enough, then God has to make me rich. |
– If I am godly, then I will be poor
– I cannot be righteous and rich |
Facing the Facts
- By global standards we are all rich
The Command: Do not put your hope in riches
- Why do we trust in money? It promises what only God can deliver
- Money promises: happiness, security and significance
How do know if I have a love of money? -2
- I have it but don’t share it.
- v.18 The antidote to the love of money is not more money.It’s generosity.
- The love of money is expressed through greed and selfishness
- Tithing is the best way to break that stronghold
Invitation:
- Look for opportunities to be generous…
- As an act of worship, recognize everything comes from God.
- Consider it a great joy to give back as an act of worship and obedience,
- Trust God with the first 10 percent of what you make.
- Do not feel guilty for the blessings. Instead maximize the blessing by sharing it with others. Be a blessing to others.