Jesus’ Lessons on Wealth

Lesson 1Letting Go ......................................................................3Mark 1:16-20

Lesson 2Traveling Lightly ..............................................................8Mark 6:6b-13

Lesson 3Faithful Stewardship ......................................................13Luke 16:1-13

Lesson 4You Can’t Take It With You..............................................18Luke 12:13-31

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Prepare Before the SessionRead the session for today in the Study Guide. Then read the options in this Teaching

Guide, placing checkmarks beside the activities you plan to include. After you have decidedwhich options to use, gather the appropriate materials.

WHAT’S IN YOUR TEACHING GUIDE

This Teaching Guide has three purposes:➤ to give the teacher tools for focusing on the content of the session in the Study Guide.➤ to give the teacher additional Bible background information.➤ to give the teacher variety and choice in preparation.

The Teaching Guide includes two major components: Teacher Helps and Teacher Options.

Teacher Helps

Teacher Options

Bible BackgroundThe Study Guide is your mainsource of Bible study material.This section helps you more fullyunderstand and interpret the Scripture text.

Teaching Outlineprovides you with an outlineof the main themes in theStudy Guide.

The next three sections provide a beginning, middle, and endfor the session, with focus paragraphs in between.

Focus Paragraphsare printed in italics at the top of the page because they

are the most important part of the Teaching Guide. Theseparagraphs will help you move your class from “what the text

meant” to “what the text means.”

You Can Choose!There is more material in each session than you can use, so choose the options from each sectionto tailor the session to the needs of your group.

Bible BackgroundThe EvangelistMark, also known as John

Mark, was the son of Mary, aJewish woman in Jerusalem. She

was prominent in the early Christiancommunity there, opening her largehouse for gatherings of worship andstudy. Mark may have been the cousin ofBarnabas (Col 4:10). He accompaniedBarnabas and Paul on their first mission-ary journey (Acts 13:5), and he was thecause of a bitter dispute between thesetwo apostles (Acts 15:37-40).

In addition to his connection withPaul, he was also remembered as Peter’sinterpreter in Rome. According to Papias,the second-century bishop of Hieropolis,“Mark, having become the interpreter ofPeter, wrote down accurately whatever heremembered of the things said and doneby the Lord, but not however in order”(Reynolds, 550).

The GospelScholars disagree about whether Markwas written in Palestine or Rome.Traditionally, most believe Mark wrote inRome. Palestine was Jewish territory. Ifthe Gospel had been written in Palestine,there would have been no reason forMark to explain Jewish customs, as heoften did (for example, in 7:3-5). His audi-ence would already have been familiarwith them. Also, whenever Mark quotes

an Aramaic word or phrase (as in 5:41 and14:36), he then translates it into Greek.This would not have been necessary forAramaic-speaking Palestinian Jews.Therefore, most scholars believe theGospel of Mark was written in Rome.

The Roman setting helps identify thetime when the Gospel was written. GivenMark’s many references to Christiansfacing persecution, many believe theGospel dates during the reign of Nero (AD 54–68) or slightly thereafter. In AD 64a terrible fire destroyed large sections ofRome. Nero was rumored to be responsi-ble. After much criticism, Nero used theChristians as a scapegoat, blaming themfor the massive destruction. Tacitus, aRoman historian, reported that as a resultof this, hundreds of Christians werearrested. Persecution continued, becomingmore severe and widespread over theyears. In AD 70, the city of Jerusalem wasburned at the end of the Jewish Civil Warof AD 66–70. The Jerusalem temple wasdestroyed, and all the inhabitants of thecity were sent into exile. Amid thisturmoil, Mark saw the urgent need torecord the story of Jesus for future gener-ations before it was too late.

The DisciplesIn Mark’s narrative of the calling of thefirst disciples, Jesus tells Simon Peter andAndrew that he will make them fish forpeople (v. 17). Christians have long usedthis phrase as a reference to the subsequent

1Lesson Teaching Guide

LETTING

GO

Mark 1:16-20

missionary journeys of all the disciples.“Fishing for people” is a phraseChristians use even today to speak ofpreaching the gospel and winning newdisciples for Christ.

The reference to fishing can be taken astep further. For example, when the OldTestament refers to hooks and nets, it isusually with a negative connotation.References to such items usually involvethe imagery of catching others in a snare(for example, Jer 16:16; Ezek 29:4-5; Amos4:2; Hab 1:14-17). In ancient Hebrewthought, God sometimes set traps forthose who faced divine judgment.

In this passage, however, Jesus casts amore positive light on the ancientimagery. He uses fishing terminology notfor ensnaring evildoers but for healing,preaching, and casting out demons. Thisis what Jesus’ mission is all about: thosewho are “caught” by this new fishingactivity are actually saved, not destroyed.This stands in stark comparison to themessage of John the Baptizer only a fewverses previously (vv. 4-15). In contrast toJesus, John preached a message of judg-ment and condemnation. John wouldhave been quite comfortable with thecommon Old Testament connotations offishing! Jesus, however, offers words andgestures of hope, grace, and mercy forthose who believe in and follow him. For Jesus, “fishing for people” does notinvolve judgment but bringing good newsto others (Perkins, 539).

The Good NewsEven so, there is an element of truth tothe Hebrew Bible’s negative connotationof nets and hooks. Following Jesus is noteasy; it involves a radical change inlifestyle. This, in turn, will mean discom-fort in many parts of our lives. Someaspects of our lives must even dieoutright as we are radically transformedinto followers of Christ. At the deepestlevel, however, to follow Jesus and to bewith him at every point in our lives meansthat we will inherit the most meaningfullife possible. Jesus fulfills us and gives us

life in ways that we have never known(Williamson, 46).

Peter, Andrew, James, and Johnbecame the first of the “fish” to be caughtup in the excitement of the kingdom ofGod. They had witnessed the power andconviction of Jesus’ words and deeds inhis simple command to “Follow me.” Thisexperience taught them firsthand what itmeans to be fishers of men and women.Jesus did not only beckon them to joinhim, he also promised to make them fishfor others. Being fishermen themselvesand having experienced Jesus’ amazingpresence, they were well aware that thiscommission was not something to betaken lightly. Jesus was giving them anexample of what he was asking them todo. Like a fisherman himself, he cast thenet of his word. Four men by the seashoregot caught up in the kingdom of God.

Following Jesus requires learning to trustGod to supply our needs. Jesus calls us toget “caught up” in the kingdom of God.Doing this confronts us with the challengeto follow Jesus in every way and to let go ofour fears about our material needs.

I. Learning to Trust GodA. What makes us open to trusting God

with what is important in our lives?B. Why are we so afraid of letting go of

control in our lives?C. Learning about those we trust to

supply for us.

II. Fishing for OthersA. How can our normal routines be used

for the betterment of others?B. How is ministry to others like fishing?

III. Giving SacrificiallyA. Different methods of giving.B. Learning from Scripture.C. Applying scriptural examples to our

own lives.

4 Lesson 1

❍ Sacrificial LivingJesus found willing disciples and invitedthem to give up all they had in order tofollow him and become fishers of people.It is hard to trust others to supply ourneeds, especially when we are capable andused to taking care of ourselves. Howmuch more difficult is it for us to give upwhat is comfortable to follow a God wecannot see?

Questions➤ What would you do if someone you

trusted asked you to give up more thanyou thought you could, even for a goodcause?

➤ What would compel you to give up aprized financial asset or materialpossession?

➤ What would Jesus have to do toconvince you to give up everything andfollow him?

❍ Trusting OthersAs children, we trusted many people toprovide for us. Our families, churches,schools, and communities provided vitalcomponents for our lives, such as love,physical and emotional nourishment,clothing, education, discipline, and ahome, just to name a few. As children, wetook these things for granted and felt noobligation to give back to others. Weoften failed to be grateful, even though wetrusted these people and institutionswholeheartedly.

Questions➤ Who are some of the people (or institu-

tions) that you trusted to provide foryour needs as a child? What did theyprovide for you? What did they have tosacrifice to make sure you were caredfor?

➤ How were your emotional and spiritualneeds met?

➤ Did you ever doubt that your needswould be met?

➤ How is trusting others difficult? How istrusting Jesus to meet these needsdifferent from trusting a parent,teacher, etc.?

What things hold us back from trusting in Jesus completely? Even though each of usmay have countless stories of God’s goodness, we still find it difficult to trustGod in certain areas. Despite what God is prompting us to do, we often fail totrust that God will provide for us. Why?

A Way to Begin

Teaching Guide 5

Subsequently, after Jesus’ death and resurrection, they continued to spread the goodnews, and others were caught up in the kingdom of God as well (Perkins, 539).

❍ What’s My Line?Jesus told the disciples to follow him andhe would have them “fish for people.”This was an appropriate and meaningfulphrase for the fishermen. List the occupa-tions of class members on the board. Godown the list and discuss the questionsbelow. Be sure to involve the entire classin discussing each job so as to generatedifferent points of view.

Try to find Scripture passages thatdirectly or indirectly relate to each jobposition. Discuss how the passages offer apositive or negative example of servingGod through one’s career. (The subjectlist or concordance in the back of a Biblemay be helpful in locating relevantScriptures.)

Questions ➤ What do people in this career do on a

daily basis?➤ What needs does this job meet for the

jobholder? For his or her clients orcustomers?

➤ How does this job help others?➤ How else might this job help others?

❍ Fishing for PeopleThe term “fishing for people” has becomecommon jargon in the church. Challengethe group to think about the variousconnotations of fishing, whether from theBible or from their personal experience offishing. Use the following questions as aguide.

Questions➤ What does it mean to “fish for people”?➤ What sort of preparation goes into a

day of fishing? How does this compareand contrast with the preparation thatgoes into ministry?

➤ When we go fishing, we often have tosit for hours, fighting insects in themiddle of a lake, and we still get nobites from a fish. How is this like ourservice to others?

➤ What kind of “bait” might attract non-Christians to Christ?

➤ What needs are met for others forwhom we “fish”?

➤ Although the fish literally dies when wecatch to keep, what could this meanfiguratively for the person to whom weare ministering? What could it meanfor us?

➤ Where else in Scripture does fishing orfish appear? How does this relate to thetheme of the lesson?

A Way to Explore Scripture It is sometimes hard to be generous to others, and we often miss ways we could help.Not only do we have material resources that could be used to bless others, but we also

have God-given skills and passions we can offer for the sake of others. Scripture chal-lenges us to be good stewards of whatever resources God has placed at our disposal.

6 Lesson 1

❍ Giving InventoryWe tend to take the word“sacrifice” lightly in the reli-gious world. Jesus does notask each of us for a small

part of our lives, but he wants all of us.This is truly giving sacrificially.

Distribute copies of the resource page“Giving Inventory” and ask each personto complete the worksheet privately. Theyneed not share their answers with the class.

State that giving of ourselves is noteasy, especially when we feel we are unableto provide both for ourselves and thosearound us. Discuss the following questions:

Questions➤ Where do you feel you could improve

your giving? ➤ In what other areas do you feel you

could improve? ➤ Where is it most difficult to give

sacrificially?➤ What opportunities exist in your

churches, communities, places of work,etc., to give sacrificially?

❍ Giving BiblicallyOn note cards, have class members writereferences to biblical examples ofsomeone giving one’s self for others, phys-ically, emotionally, financially, orotherwise. Encourage the group to becreative in the types of giving involved. Beas broad or specific as you want. Post eachexample on the wall for everyone to see.Ask the following questions:

Questions➤ What did this person or group give to

another?➤ What effect did it have on this giver?

The receiver?➤ Did the giver worry about his or her

own needs? Why or why not?➤ How have we been like the giver? The

receiver?➤ How can we apply this lesson to our

lives?

ResourcesPheme Perkins, “The Gospel of Mark,” New Interpreter’sBible (Nashville: Abingdon, 1995).

J. A. Reynolds, “Mark,” Mercer Dictionary of the Bible, ed.Watson E. Mills et al. (Macon GA: Mercer UniversityPress, 1990).

Lamar Williamson, Jr., “Mark,” Interpretation: A BibleCommentary for Teaching and Preaching (Atlanta: John Knox,1983).

Jesus did not coerce the disciples into following him. Rather, they saw something inJesus that made them want to give all they had and more for this long-awaited

Messiah. We live in a different time now, but there are many ways and reasons to givesacrificially in order to be a true disciple of Jesus.

A Way to End

Teaching Guide 7

2Bible Background

A Challenging TimeThe Gospel of Mark was

written under unique andunpleasant circumstances.

Christians faced severe persecution, andthe writer of the Gospel felt an urgentneed to preserve the story ofChristianity’s beginnings.

Many understand the Gospel of Markto be a pastoral response to this terrifyingand life-threatening situation. Marksubtly points out the similarities betweenthe Roman Christians’ persecution andthe suffering of Jesus. Martin Hengelwrote, “The time in which the evangelistis living is coloured by the vivid experi-ence of fearful persecution, andexpanding mission, the danger of beingled astray, and the tumult of war threat-ening the whole empire” (cited byReynolds, 550). It is no wonder Markemphasized Jesus’ words about thepresent and future persecution ofChristians (for example, 4:17; 6:45-51;10:29-30). What better way to bringcomfort to his audience than to remindthem that Jesus himself foretold thesetumultuous days and offered hope?

Given such uncertain times, we canunderstand why it was so important torecord these words. From the beginningof the Gospel, the reader can tell thatMark is in a hurry to record the history ofChristianity. Mark is the only Synoptic

Gospel that does not include a birthnarrative. Rather than taking time to setthe stage through birth narratives (likeLuke) or genealogies (like Matthew),Mark went straight to more timelydescriptions of Jesus’ teachings, miracles,and sufferings. Words and phrases suchas “immediately” (1:12; 6:50; 9:20, 24;14:43) and “while he was still speaking”(5:35; 14:43) are used frequently through-out the Gospel, indicating not only therapid pace of Jesus’ ministry but also theway Mark interpreted these events to havetaken place. This interpretation reflectshis sense of urgency about events in hisown time.

Mark also included a tremendousamount of symbolism in his Gospel. Forexample, Jesus and his disciples oftencross the Sea of Galilee from Jewish toGentile territories (5:1, 21; 6:45, 53). Thisillustrates Jesus’ indiscriminate love forall people, Jews and Gentiles alike. Evenamid persecution, all people are entitledto the love of Christ.

A Challenging MissionThis passage deals with what we want inour lives and what we actually need. Jesusis direct in showing us the differencebetween the two. Today we have technol-ogy that provides an abundance ofmaterial comforts, but even those inJesus’ day struggled with what theyneeded for their everyday survival andwhat they simply wanted.

Lesson Teaching Guide

TRAVELING

LIGHTLY

Mark 6:6b-13

This is precisely what Jesus wantedthe disciples to understand. Jesus wasintentional in the way he equippedeach disciple. He knew what theyneeded in order to carry out theirmission. First, he sent them two by two(v. 7). This provided much-neededemotional support on their journey. Healso made sure they had the spiritualpower they needed by giving them author-ity over evil spirits. Jesus did not send outthe disciples to perform the impossiblewith no training, power, or support. Theyhad spent much time with Jesus andreceived a share in his authority.

Jesus told the disciples to carry a staffbut no bag, bread, or money. This issomewhat similar to the behavior of trav-eling Cynic philosophers, but there arealso important differences. The Cynicsdisplayed no concern for public opinion,material possessions, or the cultivation ofthe arts. Rather, they subsisted by beggingfrom others (Wilson, 189). While like theCynics the disciples were to live as simplyas possible, they were not to become free-loaders. Thus, in contrast to the Cynicteacher with his bag of donations, thedisciples were to carry no bag. They wereto demonstrate that their intentions weredifferent even if some of their methodswere the same.

A Challenging LifestyleJesus also instructed the disciples on whatforms of hospitality they could accept.Namely, they could accept lodging but notmoney. Jesus challenged the disciples toput their trust in him for their needs, buthe also wanted them to understand thedifference between true needs and simplewants. Also, he understood the impor-tance of his disciples’ example of what itmeans to be a follower of Jesus.

The disciples’ ministry of healing andcasting out demons was not intended toglorify themselves but God. They werenot involved in this traveling ministry forthe money. They were not to be confusedwith the many religious charlatans,

healers, and wandering teachers of thattime.

For example, accepting the first invita-tion of lodging they received rather thanmoving around from house to houseensured that the disciples did not attemptto insult their hosts by fishing around formore luxurious accommodations. Suchthings were not needs, only wants.

Jesus makes it clear that being one ofhis disciples is not a glamorous or materi-ally rewarding way of life. It may even beso difficult at times that rejection fromothers necessitates that we shake the dustoff our shoes. In the ancient world, thisact was a gesture intended to curse aplace. Shaking the dust off one’s feetrather than simply washing one’s handsor garments implies a rejection of a place.However, this act is also a symbol of thehuman freedom we all possess. Mark maynot have intended the harsher

Discerning what we truly need and what wemerely want is hard. It is easy to get soaccustomed to our material comforts thatwe wonder how we survived before theywere invented! Then we view them as needs,not wants. We fail to recognize that Jesus isaware of what we truly need to survive.

I. The difference between needs and wants.A. Realizing there are no guarantees in life.B. Shaking the dust off our feet.C. Recognizing needs and wants in

acceptance and rejection.

II. Trusting God to know our needs.A. Trusting the unknown.B. Being a devoted follower of Christ.C. The challenge to give sacrificially.

III. Acting with TrustA. The birds of the air.B. Learning different ways to give.C. Spiritual guidance for personal growth.

Teaching Guide 9

❍ Facing RejectionGod understands us well enough to knowwhat we need and what we merely want,but it can be difficult to trust God’s judg-ment on this matter! Before and afterThis lesson’s passage are two accounts ofpeople rejecting Jesus and his followers.Jesus is forthright about the hardships ofbeing a disciple. Read the preceding andfollowing passages to help the group tounderstand the focal passage more clearly.

Questions➤ What does it mean for us to trust that

God understands our needs?➤ How does Jesus take care of us when

we try to follow him?➤ When do we feel Jesus has neglected us?➤ How do we make sense of the biblical

teachings that (1) there are no guaran-tees of success in life and (2) we shouldtrust that our needs will be supplied?

➤ How does Jesus show us what ourneeds and wants truly are?

❍ Shaking off the DustWhen rejected, Jesus instructs his disci-ples to “shake off the dust that is on[their] feet as a testimony against them.”We face rejection every day, sometimesbecause of our deeply held beliefs andvalues.

Questions➤ When have you felt the need to “shake

the dust off your feet”?➤ How can we “shake the dust off our

feet” in modern terms?➤ When have you faced rejection when

standing up for your beliefs?➤ How can simplifying one’s life result in

rejection from others?

With all our modern conveniences, it is difficult to recognize the difference betweenour needs and wants. Some differences are subtle and therefore difficult to see.Furthermore, some people may reject us when the simplicity of our lives challenges

their extravagance. How can Jesus help us simplify our lives and accept the rejection of others?

A Way to Begin

10 Lesson 2

connotation, but the symbolism still remains: the town has refused to hear of their Godand is thus in a sense under God’s curse (Perkins, 595, 596).

Being a disciple of Christ will be difficult at times. Jesus makes it clear that therewards, however, enhance our lives in the most wonderful and immeasurable waysimaginable when we trust in him.

❍ TrustTrust is the key element to this passage,yet it is also the most difficult aspect tounderstand. This text gives us theexample of twelve people who seeminglygave up all the wants of their lives—thingsthat defined who they were—andproceeded down a road that was not onlyunknown but also incredibly self-denying.The fact that they did this willingly andnot under compulsion makes their storyeven more incredible.

Questions➤ How does our call to discipleship and

ministry compare or contrast with thatof the first disciples?

➤ How is our call easier? How is it harder?➤ How would you react if Jesus were to

walk into your home, assess yourpossessions, and remove all of yourwants? What would be gone? Whatwould be left?

➤ Could you leave your family andfriends behind to follow Jesus?

➤ What other hard things did Jesus callpeople to do in the Gospels?

➤ How can we find ways to trust Jesuswhen he calls on us to do somethingdifficult?

❍ DevotionThis passage is about being a devotedfollower of Christ, though it encompassesmany other elements as well. Jesusinstructs his followers not to bring anymoney and to live off the hospitality ofothers. Does this approach seem realisticor practical to you?

Questions➤ Was it fair for Jesus to forbid the disci-

ples to indulge their wants even thoughhe guaranteed their needs?

➤ Why did Jesus take the attitude he didtoward material wants and needs?

➤ How can we apply this principle offollowing Christ at any expense to ourlives today?

➤ Could you give up what the disciplesdid? What made them able to do it?

➤ How do our possessions get in the wayof our discipleship? How do they get inthe way of our ministry to others?

➤ What does this passage say about themarketing of Christian-themed clothing, jewelry, music, tourism, orother commodities?

➤ How does this passage challenge us togive sacrificially?

Life was so different in Jesus’ day that we struggle to believe he can really identify withthe challenges of modern life. Even so, Scripture and Christian tradition bids us to

listen to him for constant guidance in our lives. How can we feel comfortable turningto Jesus in times of human struggle?

A Way to Explore Scripture

Teaching Guide 11

12 Lesson 2

❍ Giving Up ControlWe may say that we know God will supplyall our needs, but we also hope for a fewwants as well. Even Solomon in all hisglory was not clothed like one of the liliesof the field that neither toil nor spin (Mt 6:28-29)—but we are not lilies! It iseasy for us to read this passage but fail toapply it.

Questions➤ In what tangible ways can we relinquish

control of even part of our lives to God?➤ What would it look like to surrender

our wants to God? What would it looklike to surrender our needs to God?

➤ How can we create ways not only to giveto the church but to give sacrificially?

➤ What are other ways we can give to God?➤ How can we rely on God to help us

grow in our giving?

❍ Remembering God’s BlessingsAsk the following questions:

Questions➤ How do material things influence our

spiritual lives? ➤ How can our spiritual effectiveness

toward others be damaged by our accu-mulation of material goods?

➤ How can “shaking the dust off our feet”be an example of spiritual strengthwhen tempted by our culture’sconsumerism?

Distribute copies of theresource page “RememberingGod’s Blessings.” End theclass session by reading

responsively as a form of closing prayer.

ResourcesPheme Perkins, The New Interpreter’s Bible: Matthew–Mark(Nashville: Abingdon, 1995).

J. A. Reynolds, “Mark,” Mercer Dictionary of the Bible, ed.Watson E. Mills et al. (Macon: Mercer University Press,1990).

Richard F. Wilson, “Cynics,” Mercer Dictionary of the Bible,ed. Watson E. Mills et al. (Macon: Mercer University Press,1990).

It is difficult for us to make sense of this passage. Do the disciples really only need afew essential items for their journey? Not many today would offer food or a place to

stay to a stranger. How shall we reconcile this text with our lives so we can under-stand and apply what it is telling us?

A Way to End

3Bible Background

The GospelLike all the Gospels, the title

“According to Luke” was addeddecades later, and the Gospel is

technically anonymous. Though we can’tbe sure of the author’s identity, the earli-est traditions of the church hold that thethird Gospel was written by Luke, thephysician who accompanied Paul on anumber of his mission journeys. It islikely that whoever wrote this Gospel wasnot a Jew or a native of Palestine. He doesnot demonstrate the kind of intimateknowledge of Jewish traditions or thelocal geography that we see in the otherGospels.

Luke approached his subject like anyother writer of history in the ancientworld. He begins with a “historiographic”preface unlike anything we find in theother Gospels. Historiography is “theliterary reconstruction of historicalevents; the writing of history; and thestudy and analysis of historical narrative”(Ehrman, 426). By beginning his Gospelin the manner of an ancient historian,Luke demonstrates great educationalaccomplishment and rhetorical polish. Infact, Luke’s command of Greek is amongthe strongest in the New Testament, andthe writing style of this Gospel is morerefined than Mark or Matthew. Luke is awriter who demands we take his Gospelseriously (Ehrman, 98).

The readers of the Gospel were alsoapparently Gentile believers. Luke seemsto write for an audience that is not inti-mately conversant with Judaism. Forexample, the book of Matthew describesJesus as a Messiah with a strong Jewishheritage. Luke, on the other hand, makeshis Gospel more understandable toGentiles. He does not include Matthew’saccount in 5:21-48, where Jesus listedmany ancient laws and gave his own inter-pretations. References to the HebrewScriptures do not occur as often in Luke.Also, Luke uses the term “Lord” insteadof “Rabbi” when referring to Jesus.Finally, Matthew’s Gospel tracks Jesus’lineage back to Abraham, which empha-sizes Jesus’ Jewishness. In his genealogy(Luke 3:23-38), Luke traces Jesus’ ancestryall the way back to Adam to indicate he isthe Savior of all people.

The ParableIn this lesson’s passage there are twocentral figures: a rich landowner and amanager. The landowner was most likelyan absentee figure who counted on themanager to manage his assets in thecountry while he lived in the city.

The charge brought against themanager of “squandering his property” isa direct allusion to the prodigal son andhis squandering his inheritance. It is nomistake that this passage occurs just afterthe parable of the prodigal son and beforethat of the rich man and the poor man,

Lesson Teaching Guide

FAITHFUL

STEWARDSHIP

Luke 16:1-13

Lazarus. We learn through themanager’s internal monologue that heis too proud to beg and not strongenough to perform manual labor. Atthis point, we do not learn why hechooses to do what he does. We have tolearn at the same time as the master(Culpepper, 307).

This parable is difficult for us tounderstand because Jesus seems tocondone the manager’s seemingly dishon-est behavior as something others shouldemulate. Why would Jesus commend suchbehavior? We try to justify it in variousways: First, we may suggest that themanager was cheating the master to gainthe trust and popularity of those in hisdebt. Second, since the Old Testamentforbids the charging of interest (Deut 23:19-20), the manager may havebeen acting righteously by removing theinterest his master imposed. Finally, it ispossible that the amount the managerremoved from the debtors’ bills was hisown commission.

This last possibility may be the easiestto accept morally. However, with so manymissing details, such as the amount of themanager’s usual commission, and the factthat each debt seemed to be reduced by arandom amount, this interpretation isunlikely, however appealing it may be. Wereturn to the parable with more questionsthan answers and struggle with the ques-tion of why Jesus would condone suchactions (Culpepper, 308).

The most important thing to remem-ber about this passage is that some thingsare worth more than money. In theancient world, people prized honor orreputation above money, and themanager’s actions would certainly haveenhanced the master’s honor in thecommunity. By forgiving the master’sdebts, the manager made the masterappear generous and charitable.

The manager did what he thoughtbest with the resources he had. ThoughJesus challenges us to be childlike in ourfaith, this is not the same thing as beingnaïve. Jesus, however, beckoned his disci-

ples to be “wise as serpents and innocentas doves” (Mt 10:16). Though it is noteasy for us to commend the manager’sactions, the parable gives us an exampleof how we should approach the urgencyof the coming kingdom of God. Themanager’s time was running out beforehe faced judgment from his master. Hehad to think on his feet, and he chose totake a bold course of action, which, ifsuccessful, would win his master’scommendation.

Luke used this context to record addi-tional sayings of Jesus on the subject ofmaterial goods. Verses 10-13 are allproverbial sayings that in no way dependon the parable. Verses 10-12 are all

How can our wealth best be used for thegood of others? It’s difficult for us to knowthe most effective way to use our wealthsince there are so many things we can dowith it for the cause of Christ. Scripture isfull of suggestions for helping those aroundus. It is up to us to apply those examples tomake the best use of the resources God hasgiven us.

I. Looking to others as an exampleA. How can we use our place in society to

be an example to others?B. What is our motivation to help others?C. What do the different scenarios of the

shrewd steward tell us about ourselves?

II. Looking to Scripture for examplesA. What models does Scripture give us?B. What are we already doing?C. Creative examples of items of wealth.

III. We can all giveA. Deciding between our various

“masters.”B. Looking toward the church.C. Using our resources to the best of our

ability.

14 Lesson 3

❍ Sharing One’s BlessingsDivide the class into groups of three orfour. Ask each group to come up withnames of people, past or present, famousor not, who use (or have used) the giftsand blessings God gave them (finances,education, gifts and abilities, etc.) for thegood of others. Share your examples withthe class. After everyone has shared, askthe following questions:

Questions➤ Is it (or was it) easy for those people to

give their resources for the bettermentof others? Why or why not? Did theygive sacrificially?

➤ Did any of these people endure criti-cism for their actions?

➤ Why did they give of their “wealth” inthe first place? How many of themwould claim spiritually motivatedreasons for their generosity?

➤ How can we emulate these people? ➤ Is there a difference between Christian

charity and non-Christian charity?

❍ What Is Wealth?Ask the group what things they wouldplace in the category of “wealth.” Invitevolunteers to read the following passages:Galatians 5:13-14, 22-26; 2 Chronicles1:11-14; Micah 6:8; Ephesians 1:7;Colossians 3:16. Ask the questions below.

Questions➤ What types of riches or wealth are

described in these passages?➤ Where do these riches come from?➤ What are we supposed to do with them?➤ What riches do you have that can be

used for a greater good?

It is difficult for us to know how best to use our wealth when we are not sure whatthe Bible considers our wealth to be. We are so accustomed to defining wealth asmoney that we fail to recognize the countless blessings God has given us. TheBible measures our wealth in a number of ways.

A Way to Begin

Teaching Guide 15

categorized as what logicians call “an argument a fortiori, that is an argument from thelesser to the greater” (Craddock, 191-192). Our lives are centered on the tasks of dailyliving, no matter how routine they seem. These sayings teach us that life is full of smallopportunities. The manager, no longer the servant for his master, chose another masterwho readily forgives the debts of others.

❍ Why Did He Do It?There are a variety of ways to explain themanager’s actions that may help us tounderstand the story more fully if notrelate to him better. Discuss each of thefollowing scenarios for interpreting theparable of the “dishonest manager”:

➤ The manager was acting righteously bycanceling the exorbitant and illegalinterest imposed by the master.

➤ The manager reduced the debt by theamount of his commission.

➤ The manager was reducing the size ofthe debts in order to gain the favor ofthe debtors and enhance his master’sreputation in the community.

What arguments seem to favor eachinterpretation? (You may wish to dividethe class into groups and have each groupargue for one of the options.)

Questions➤ With which scenario are you most

comfortable? Why?➤ Which scenario is most likely, regard-

less of your comfort level? Why? ➤ Could there be another interpretation

of the manager’s actions? What wouldthat interpretation be?

➤ How is this parable unlike Jesus’ otherparables? How is it similar?

➤ What makes this a difficult parable forus to hear?

❍ Biblical ApplicationsInvite volunteers to read the followingverses. For each passage, discuss the questions below.➤ Leviticus 27:30-34➤ Deuteronomy 15:7-11➤ Psalm 49:16-20 ➤ Luke 3:10-14➤ Luke 12:13-21

Questions ➤ How can this passage directly apply to

my life? The life of our church? The lifeof our community?

➤ How are we as individuals alreadydoing this? How are we already doing itas a church?

➤ How are these instructions realistic?How are they unrealistic?

➤ Why is it difficult to share our wealth,time, possessions, and emotions withothers?

A Way to Explore Scripture Using our resources for the good of others requires us to be creative risk-takers.This can be a struggle for many of us. Sometimes we forget the many ways the Bible

teaches us to share our wealth with others.

16 Lesson 3

❍ Faithful ServantsDistribute copies of theScripture passage found onthe resource page “FaithfulServants.” Have each class

member take a copy and place it some-where it will be seen often in the weekahead. Ask the following questions:

Questions ➤ How have we failed to live up to these

truths?➤ How have we succeeded?➤ How many masters do we have in our

lives?➤ How can Jesus speak to us through

these verses?

❍ Creative StewardshipDiscuss ways the church could use itsresources for the good of its community.Think creatively about the resources yourchurch members have that could be usedto meet the needs of others. Don’t limityourselves to discussing financial assets:think about skills, facilities, and otherresources available to your congregation.Ask the following questions:

Questions ➤ Have these resources been used for the

church or community already?➤ How might the church be limiting itself

in terms of the stewardship of itsresources? Why do you suppose this is?

➤ How has the church risen to the chal-lenge of helping people outside itsmembership?

Close in prayer. Ask God to help yourchurch to remain faithful in its use ofresources on behalf of others.

ResourcesFred B. Craddock, Luke, Interpretation (Louisville: JohnKnox, 1990).

Alan Culpepper, “Luke,” The New Interpreter’s Bible(Nashville: Abingdon, 1995).

Bart D. Ehrman, The New Testament: A Historical Introductionto the Early Christian Writings (Oxford: Oxford UniversityPress, 1997).

No matter our social or economic standing, Jesus is able to help all of us to be generouswith the gifts we have. There are many ways to use the resources God gave us to help

those around us. How can we become more faithful stewards of God’s riches?

A Way to End

Teaching Guide 17

Bible BackgroundHonor and WealthOften in Scripture, wealth is

interpreted as a sign of God’sgoodness and favor. Job’s friends

suspected his sudden poverty meant thatGod was punishing him for some hiddensin. The book of Proverbs consistentlylays out a correlation between righteousness and material prosperity.The Bible implies—and sometimes statesoutright—that people are wealthy becauseGod has blessed them. In other portionsof Scripture, most notably the prophets,the rich are condemned for gaining theirwealth through dishonest means. Inparticular, the prophets rail against thosewho become rich by defrauding ormistreating the poor.

Wealth, therefore, can come as theresult of either righteous or unrighteousactions. When the Bible is silent aboutthe sources of rich people’s wealth,readers must consider both possibilities.Even so, in the absence of evidence to thecontrary, most peasants in first-centuryIsrael would have assumed a rich personhad become rich by unscrupulous means.An honorable rich man would thereforemake a special effort to dispel anyconcerns about his character. He wouldbe forthright about his business dealings,often discussing his plans with others toassure them that everything was aboveboard. Furthermore, he would share a

portion of his windfall with the commu-nity through conspicuous acts of charity.

Wisdom and WealthIn the Gospels, Jesus does not seem asconcerned with the source of wealth as heis with what people do with it. From therich man who was challenged to give upeverything in order to enter into heaven(Mt 19:21) to the prodigal son (Lk 15:11-32), there are countless storiesof the dangers of misusing money andhow this harms relationships. Mostimportant, Jesus shows us how we mayuse our resources most productively.

Earlier passages in Luke (1:51-53; 6:24;8:14) prepare us for Jesus’ strong wordsagainst those who would hoard theirmoney. If one’s fields have brought forthan abundant harvest, it is a blessing fromGod intended to be shared with others.Jesus makes it clear throughout Scripturethat what we earn is not for us alone butis a gift of God to be used for thecommon good.

It is difficult, however, to be wise withour wealth. We are commanded to shareour resources, but we also realize thatlean times sometimes come. How muchare we allowed to hold back for a rainyday? Even in the Bible we read of Joseph’swise advice to Pharaoh to store some ofthe harvest in view of a coming famine(Gen 41:35-36). It is easier to be generouswith others in times of plenty.

Lesson Teaching Guide

YOU CAN’T TAKE ITWITH YOU

Luke 12:13-314

The apocryphal book of Sirachwarns us of the perils of misusing ourwealth:

Good things and bad, life and death,poverty and wealth, come from theLord. The Lord’s gift remains with thedevout, and his favor brings lastingsuccess. One becomes rich throughdiligence and self-denial, and thereward allotted to him is this: whenhe says, “I have found rest, and now Ishall feast on my goods!” he does notknow how long it will be until heleaves them to others and dies. (Sir 11:14-19)

Like the parable of the rich fool, thispassage includes a private soliloquy inwhich the rich person takes satisfactionin the knowledge that his material needsare fulfilled. In Luke, however, the richman is a fool (v. 20) who ponders not howto share his wealth but how to hoard it.Jesus exposes the selfishness and greedi-ness of these thoughts. It is an example ofthe warning Jesus had just given thePharisees coming to pass:

Nothing is covered up that will not beuncovered, and nothing is secret thatwill not become known. Thereforewhatever you have said in the darkwill be heard in the light, and whatyou have whispered behind closeddoors will be proclaimed from thehousetops. (Lk 12:2-3)

Even if we say such things only in ourhearts, they cannot remain hidden fromGod.

Worry and WealthThe second major theme in this passage isanxiety (vv. 22-31). Despite many piousclichés to the contrary, anxiety is notalways portrayed negatively in the NewTestament. For example, Paul was right-fully anxious about the churches he hadplanted (2 Cor 11:28), and Timothy wasanxious about the welfare of thePhilippians (Phil 2:20). The difference

between these instances and this passage,however, is that Jesus was speaking inLuke 12 about humanity’s preoccupationwith material possessions. When weworry about material goods, we getcaught up in trying to figure out whenenough is enough. This is when we beginto reflect a “lack of trust in God, a lack ofinterest in the kingdom and a lack ofgenerosity toward those in need”(Craddock, 164).

Concern for people in need iscommendable, but anxiety over things isnot. It doesn’t add anything positive toone’s life. Jesus challenges us to considerthe birds and the flowers. They serve asexamples of complete dependence onGod. We must also look to God to supplyour needs. We are called to seek God’s

Money can do much good in this world, yetit can be the single most destructive elementto any relationship, whether personal orprofessional. How can we use money mostproductively in our own lives and in the livesof those around us?

I. The source of our resources.A. What defines wealth?B. Where does our wealth come from?C. How can we best use our wealth?

II. Knowing what to do with our wealth.A. What is money for?B. How can it make us happy? How can it

make others happy?C. What Scripture says about money and

relationships.

III. Balancing God’s kingdom with ourearthly resources.

A. Putting our spiritual gifts to use.B. What do we sacrifice for God?C. What we gain for ourselves and for the

kingdom of God.

Teaching Guide 19

❍ Using Our GiftsWe are born with unique gifts from God.Discuss the gifts in evidence among themembers of the class.

Questions➤ How have you used your gifts in the

church? In the community? At work?➤ How have these gifts kindled relation-

ships with those around you?➤ Has using your gift ever damaged a

relationship? How?➤ How can we as a class collectively use

our resources for the good of others? ➤ How would this foster relationships

with others?

❍ Pay It ForwardThe movie Pay It Forward (WarnerBrothers, 2000) is about Trevor McKinney,a sensitive boy with a difficult life. WhenTrevor’s teacher, Mr. Simonet, assigns thestudents a project in which they mustdevise a plan to change the world—andthen put the plan into action—Trevorcomes up with his plan to “pay itforward.” Each person must do a favor(“something big”) for three differentpeople in need. Those three people, inreturn, must do something for three morepeople. As Trevor begins his project, hisidea to “pay it forward” sparks a chain ofevents few people could have foreseen.

Questions➤ When have you performed “random

acts of kindness”? Were you expectinganything in return?

➤ How realistic is Trevor’s plan? ➤ Trevor’s project proposes that we treat

one another with love. How is thissimilar to our lives as Christians?

All that we have comes from God. That is not to say, however, that God blessessome of us and not others. We all enjoy abundant blessings, if not materially thenin terms of relationships, abilities, strengths, and accomplishments. God is wise inthe apportionment of gifts.

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20 Lesson 4

kingdom and not add to our lists of things to be anxious about. It is God’s full inten-tion that we inherit God’s kingdom (v. 32). Anxiety about lesser things is merely adistraction.

❍ Money Provides… Distribute copies of theresource page “MoneyProvides…” Explain that it isdifficult to know when

enough is enough. When do we feel stableenough financially to share with others?

Ask class members to complete thehandout, contrasting the things moneycan buy with the things it can’t. Invitevolunteers to share their statements withthe class. Ask the following discussionquestions:

Questions➤ Why can money not provide certain

things?➤ Was there a time when you thought or

hoped that money could provide thesethings?

➤ What things that money can providemake you truly happy?

➤ When did you first realize that moneycould not buy everything?

➤ Which do we value more: the thingsmoney can’t buy or the things it can?Which does our culture value more?How can you tell?

❍ Parables about RelationshipsMoney can ruin relationships. Misuse ofmoney can destroy trust, respect, and thewellbeing of others. Therefore, it isimportant to be able to recognize whenwe should pursue our financial interestsand when it is more appropriate to focuson matters of greater value and significance.

Invite volunteers to read the followingpassages: ➤ Luke 12:13-15➤ Luke 10:29-37➤ Luke 15:11-32

Questions➤ What do these parables have in

common?➤ What differences do you see?➤ Who is our brother, sister, or neighbor? ➤ Why is it difficult to see certain people

as our brothers, sisters, or neighbors? ➤ What was it about the Samaritan in

Luke 10 that made him act differentlyfrom the brothers in the other parables?

How should we use the gifts God gives us? When should we save and when shouldwe share? This a difficult balance to strike. There is always need in the world, yet we

have our own needs as well.

A Way to Explore Scripture

Teaching Guide 21

22 Lesson 4

❍ Spiritual BlessingsThrough both example and instruction,Jesus gives us guidance about how to treatothers. Read Matthew 5:1-16, pausing forreflection after each verse.

Questions➤ What “resources” does Jesus identify in

these verses?➤ When is it right to keep these

“resources” to ourselves? ➤ What does it cost to keep these

“resources” to ourselves? What does itcost to share them?

➤ How can we live as Jesus intended?What would the world be like if morepeople did this?

❍ Admirer or Disciple?When Clarence Jordan, founder of thecontroversial Koinonia Farm outside ofAmericus, Georgia, asked his brotherRobert, an attorney, to be his official legalcounsel, his brother initially declined.Robert saw being too closely associatedwith Koinonia Farm as an impediment tohis career. Clarence challenged Robert bycalling him not a disciple of Jesus butmerely an admirer.

Questions➤ Are we disciples of Christ or are we

admirers? What changes would we haveto make to place ourselves firmly in the“disciple” category?

➤ Who are some of the genuine disciplesyou have known?

➤ What relationships could we enhanceby giving either money or time to ourchurch? To our community? At work?In our families?

ResourcesFred B. Craddock, Luke, Interpretation (Louisville: JohnKnox, 1990).

Alan Culpepper, “Luke,” The New Interpreter’s Bible(Nashville: Abingdon, 1995).

James C. Howell, Servants, Misfits, and Martyrs (Nashville:Upper Room Books, 1997).

We cannot discuss money without discussing the influence our concern for moneyhas on our relationships. The rich fool died alone because he was consumed with

acquiring wealth. His fate is a warning for each of us.

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Page 23

GIVING INVENTORY

Volunteering at local organizations

Church events

Tithing (literal 10%)

Donations to organizations

Attending church worship/

Sunday school

Offering grace to others

Forgiving others’ debts

(financial or otherwise)

Money for the homeless

Time with the homeless

Charitable campaigns at work

Other?

Try to remember how much of yourself or your finances you gave to the following causesduring the past six months:

Page 24

REMEMBERING GOD’S BLESSINGSLeader: Help us to remember, O God, that all we have is provided by you.

Group: Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Leader: Help us to remember, O God, that you are always faithful to us in ways both seenand unseen.

Group: Praise God all creatures here below.

Leader: Help us to remember, O God, that you ask us to give of ourselves no more thanwe are able to offer.

Group: Praise God above, ye heavenly hosts.

Leader: Thank you, O God, for your Son and Spirit to guide us through our actions and decisions that impact how our lives take shape in trying to live the way you would have us live.

Group: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Page 25

“FAITHFUL SERVANTS”

“Whoever is faithful in a very little isfaithful also in much; and whoever isdishonest in a very little is dishonestalso in much. If then you have notbeen faithful with the dishonestwealth, who will entrust to you thetrue riches? And if you have not beenfaithful with what belongs to another,who will give you what is your own?No slave can serve two masters; for aslave will either hate the one and lovethe other, or be devoted to the oneand despise the other. You cannotserve God and wealth” (Lk 16:10-13)

“Whoever is faithful in a very little isfaithful also in much; and whoever isdishonest in a very little is dishonestalso in much. If then you have notbeen faithful with the dishonestwealth, who will entrust to you thetrue riches? And if you have not beenfaithful with what belongs to another,who will give you what is your own?No slave can serve two masters; for aslave will either hate the one and lovethe other, or be devoted to the oneand despise the other. You cannotserve God and wealth” (Lk 16:10-13)

“Whoever is faithful in a very little isfaithful also in much; and whoever isdishonest in a very little is dishonestalso in much. If then you have notbeen faithful with the dishonestwealth, who will entrust to you thetrue riches? And if you have not beenfaithful with what belongs to another,who will give you what is your own?No slave can serve two masters; for aslave will either hate the one and lovethe other, or be devoted to the oneand despise the other. You cannotserve God and wealth” (Lk 16:10-13)

“Whoever is faithful in a very little isfaithful also in much; and whoever isdishonest in a very little is dishonestalso in much. If then you have notbeen faithful with the dishonestwealth, who will entrust to you thetrue riches? And if you have not beenfaithful with what belongs to another,who will give you what is your own?No slave can serve two masters; for aslave will either hate the one and lovethe other, or be devoted to the oneand despise the other. You cannotserve God and wealth” (Lk 16:10-13)

Page 26

MONEY PROVIDES…

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

“Money provides __________________________________________________________________.”

“Money does not provide __________________________________________________________.”

Source: Fred B. Craddock, Luke, Interpretation (Louisville: John Knox, 1990), 61.

Complete the following statements as many ways as you can.