Big Idea: There’s more than one kind of riches, but only one that is worth chasing.

            Matthew 6:21

            Mark 10:17-18

Your view of Jesus is revealed by what you do, not what you say.

            Mark 10:19-22

Your money may be the greatest danger to your relationship with Jesus.

            Mark 10:23-25

Are you rich? Would the rich young ruler think you are rich?

            Mark 10:26-27, 29-31

The way to escape the danger of money isn’t to love money less, it’s to love other riches more.

            1 Timothy 6:17-19

Financial Check-Up

1. What excites me about where my money is going?

1. What financial fears do I have?

1. How does Jesus’ loving command to be generous make me feel?

1. What specifically is Jesus asking of me and my money right now?

Message Questions

No one likes to talk about money in church. Except for Jesus, that is. He liked to talk about money quite a bit. And it’s because he knows something—how we think about our money and what we choose to do with it will have a massive impact on our spiritual wellbeing. In Jesus’ words, “Where your money is, your heart is also.” So, if Jesus thinks money is important, maybe we should too. In this series, we’ll see the way that Jesus is inviting us to more life, more goodness, and more abundance as we have open hands with what he has given us. Because Jesus shows us that the only way money can make you happy is by Giving It Away.

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do.

1. Have someone read Mark 10:17-22. The rich young man approaches Jesus with a desire for eternal life but struggles to let go of his wealth. Why do you think wealth can make it difficult for people to fully follow Jesus? How do you see this struggle reflected in your own life?
2. Now have someone read Mark 10:23-25. Jesus says it is hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. What does this statement reveal about the dangers of relying on worldly wealth? How can we guard our hearts against the love of money?
3. Have someone read Mark 10:26-27. The disciples are astonished at Jesus’ words, but he assures them that with God, all things are possible. How does this remind us of God’s power to transform hearts and priorities? Share a time when God helped you let go of something you were holding too tightly.
4. Jesus invites the young man to follow him, offering true riches in the kingdom of God. How can you grow in embracing the “true riches” of generosity, trust in God, and kingdom priorities this week? What practical steps can you take to live with open hands toward God and others?
5. In Mark 10:29-30, Jesus promises that those who give up earthly treasures for his sake will receive even greater blessings in his kingdom. Who in your life needs to hear about the joy and freedom found in prioritizing God over material wealth? How can you go and share this truth with them?