SERIES TITLE
Authentic Faith Week 6
SERIES OVERVIEW
No other New Testament book is quite like James. Real, raw, sometimes radical, and always practical, James offers up some of the most unfiltered, straightforward, and memorable sound bites ever recorded in human history. More than anything, James helps us see what our faith looks like when it’s lived out authentically with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Join us this weekend as we begin our journey through these life-shaping truths.
SERMON TITLE
Affliction and Affluence
Sermon Summary
Gene explores the dangers of diverse church communities, particularly the risks faced by both the less affluent and the wealthy members. He challenges the belief that material possessions lead to happiness, using biblical examples to illustrate the spiritual dangers of wealth. Gene urges affluent individuals to use their wealth for good and underscores that true fulfillment comes from faith, not money.
WARM UP
What is the best advice you have received or heard lately?
DISCUSSion
Start by reading James 1:9-11; 4:13-15.
- How can being part of a diverse church community be dangerous for individuals of different socioeconomic backgrounds?
What steps can you take to avoid resentment or jealousy within your church community? - What does Ecclesiastes 5:10 teach us about the relationship between material wealth and satisfaction?
How can you find satisfaction and contentment in your life apart from material wealth? - Read Matthew 19:24-25. What does it mean to have the ‘affluence of the afflicted’?
In times of economic struggle, how do you remind yourself to find your true worth in your relationship with Jesus?
What responsibility do affluent individuals have, according to Luke 12:48?
If you consider yourself affluent, how can you honor God with your resources?Why should we strive for peace and fulfillment that comes from faith rather than material possessions?
What steps can you take to pursue a faith-based sense of fulfillment in your life?
What would change if instead of doing what you want, you stopped and asked “God, what do YOU WANT me to do?”
wrap up | prayer
● Pray for any specific prayer requests shared by the group members.
● Ask God to help us recognize and overcome feelings of resentment or jealousy towards those who are more affluent.
● Pray for a shift in our perspective on wealth, understanding that true happiness does not come from material possessions.
● Ask God to help us understand and embrace our value in Christ, regardless of our economic circumstances.