Prioritizing God Over Wealth: Lessons from the Rich Young Ruler
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound lessons from the story of the rich young ruler, as recounted in the Gospels. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of placing material wealth above spiritual riches. The rich young ruler approached Jesus, seeking eternal life, but was unwilling to part with his great wealth. This reluctance highlighted a deeper issue: his wealth had become an idol, taking precedence over his relationship with God.
We delved into the biblical perspective on riches, noting that while wealth itself is not inherently evil, it is our attitude towards it that can lead us astray. The Old Testament often viewed riches as a sign of God's blessing, contingent upon obedience to His commands. However, it also warned of the dangers of pride and self-reliance that can accompany wealth. The New Testament, particularly through the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, and warns against the deceitfulness of wealth.
The rich young ruler's story is a cautionary tale about the perils of allowing material possessions to dominate our lives. Jesus' call to sell all he had and follow Him was not just about renouncing wealth, but about prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, urging believers to seek righteousness and godliness over material gain.
Ultimately, the message is clear: true contentment and eternal life are found not in the accumulation of wealth, but in a wholehearted pursuit of God. We are called to examine our own lives and identify anything that might be hindering our full commitment to Christ. By doing so, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from a life devoted to Him.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Deceptiveness of Wealth: Wealth can easily become an idol, diverting our focus from God. The rich young ruler's sorrowful departure from Jesus illustrates how material possessions can hinder our spiritual journey. True riches are found in a relationship with God, not in earthly wealth. [24:56]
2. Biblical Perspective on Riches: The Bible presents a balanced view of wealth. While the Old Testament often saw riches as a sign of God's blessing, it also warned against the pride and self-reliance that can accompany wealth. The New Testament emphasizes storing up treasures in heaven and warns against the deceitfulness of wealth. [31:21]
3. Contentment in Christ: The Apostle Paul exemplifies contentment, whether in abundance or need. He teaches that true contentment comes from relying on Christ, who strengthens us. This perspective shifts our focus from material gain to spiritual fulfillment. [38:52]
4. The Danger of Divided Loyalties: Jesus warns that we cannot serve both God and mammon (material wealth). When wealth becomes an object of worship, it takes priority over God, leading to divided loyalties and spiritual peril. Our ultimate devotion must be to God alone. [35:44]
5. The Call to Sacrifice: Jesus' instruction to the rich young ruler to sell all he had and follow Him underscores the need for total commitment. We must be willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God, valuing Him above all else. This radical call to discipleship is essential for true spiritual growth. [49:44]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[18:10] - Opening Prayer
[19:42] - The Dream
[21:30] - The Rich Young Ruler
[22:23] - Reading from Luke
[24:06] - Misconceptions About Riches
[25:39] - Old Testament View on Riches
[28:21] - God's Conditional Promises
[31:21] - New Testament Warnings
[35:09] - Treasures in Heaven
[35:44] - Serving Two Masters
[38:52] - Paul's Contentment
[41:13] - Paul's Advice to Timothy
[43:04] - The Deceitfulness of Wealth
[49:44] - Jesus' Call to the Rich Young Ruler
[55:19] - The Joy of the Lord
[58:44] - Closing Prayer and Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Luke 18:18-22: "Now a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? So Jesus said to him, Why do you call me good? No one is good but one, that is God. You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, Honor your father and your mother. And he said, All these things I have kept from my youth. So when Jesus heard these things, he said to him, You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich."
2. Matthew 6:19-21: "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
3. Philippians 4:11-13: "Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
### Observation Questions
1. What did Jesus ask the rich young ruler to do in order to inherit eternal life? ([23:18])
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the rich young ruler's sorrowful departure from Jesus? ([24:06])
3. How does the Old Testament view riches, and what conditions are attached to this view? ([25:39])
4. What does Paul say about contentment in Philippians 4:11-13, and how does this relate to the sermon’s message on wealth? ([38:52])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus emphasized the need to sell all possessions and give to the poor in His conversation with the rich young ruler? ([23:18])
2. How does the concept of "storing up treasures in heaven" challenge our modern-day understanding of wealth and success? ([35:09])
3. In what ways can wealth become an idol in our lives, according to the sermon? ([24:56])
4. How does Paul's teaching on contentment in Philippians 4:11-13 provide a counter-narrative to the pursuit of material wealth? ([38:52])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there any material possessions or pursuits that might be hindering your relationship with God? How can you address these? ([49:44])
2. Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." What are some practical steps you can take to ensure your heart is focused on heavenly treasures rather than earthly ones? ([35:09])
3. The sermon mentioned the danger of divided loyalties. How can you ensure that your ultimate devotion is to God alone, especially in a world that often prioritizes wealth and success? ([35:44])
4. Paul learned to be content in all circumstances. What specific areas of your life do you struggle with contentment, and how can you rely on Christ to strengthen you in these areas? ([38:52])
5. The rich young ruler walked away sorrowful because he valued his wealth more than following Jesus. Is there something in your life that you value more than your relationship with God? How can you begin to change that? ([49:44])
6. How can you cultivate a heart of generosity, as Jesus instructed the rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give to the poor? What are some practical ways you can start this week? ([23:18])
7. Reflect on the idea of "the pearl of greatest price" from Matthew 13:45-46. What does it mean for you to value Jesus above all else, and how can you live this out in your daily life? ([50:50])
Devotional
Day 1: The Deceptiveness of Wealth
Wealth can easily become an idol, diverting our focus from God. The rich young ruler's sorrowful departure from Jesus illustrates how material possessions can hinder our spiritual journey. True riches are found in a relationship with God, not in earthly wealth. Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler is a stark reminder of the spiritual dangers that come with an overemphasis on material wealth. The young man approached Jesus with a sincere question about eternal life but left sorrowful because he was unwilling to part with his great possessions. This story highlights the subtle yet powerful way in which wealth can become an idol, taking precedence over our relationship with God. When material possessions dominate our lives, they can cloud our judgment and lead us away from the path of true spiritual fulfillment.
The Bible consistently warns against the deceitfulness of wealth. While it is not inherently evil, wealth can easily lead to pride, self-reliance, and a false sense of security. Jesus' call to the rich young ruler to sell all he had and follow Him was a radical invitation to prioritize the kingdom of God above all else. This principle is crucial for believers today, urging us to examine our own lives and identify anything that might be hindering our full commitment to Christ. By doing so, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from a life devoted to Him. [24:56]
Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV): "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Reflection: What material possession or pursuit in your life might be diverting your focus from God? How can you begin to shift your priorities to seek true riches in your relationship with Him?
Day 2: Biblical Perspective on Riches
The Bible presents a balanced view of wealth. While the Old Testament often saw riches as a sign of God's blessing, it also warned against the pride and self-reliance that can accompany wealth. The New Testament emphasizes storing up treasures in heaven and warns against the deceitfulness of wealth. The Old Testament frequently depicted wealth as a blessing from God, contingent upon obedience to His commands. However, it also cautioned against the dangers of pride and self-reliance that can come with material abundance. The story of King Solomon, who was blessed with immense wealth and wisdom, serves as a reminder that even the most blessed individuals can fall into the trap of relying on their riches rather than on God.
In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles shift the focus towards eternal treasures. Jesus' teachings often highlight the transient nature of earthly wealth and the importance of storing up treasures in heaven. The apostle Paul also warns against the deceitfulness of wealth, urging believers to find contentment in Christ rather than in material possessions. This balanced biblical perspective encourages us to view wealth as a tool for God's purposes rather than an end in itself. By doing so, we can avoid the spiritual pitfalls associated with materialism and cultivate a heart that seeks after God's kingdom. [31:21]
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV): "As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
Reflection: How do you view your material possessions? Are they tools for God's purposes, or have they become an end in themselves? What steps can you take to align your perspective with the biblical view of wealth?
Day 3: Contentment in Christ
The Apostle Paul exemplifies contentment, whether in abundance or need. He teaches that true contentment comes from relying on Christ, who strengthens us. This perspective shifts our focus from material gain to spiritual fulfillment. The apostle Paul is a powerful example of finding contentment in all circumstances. In his letters, Paul often speaks of his ability to be content whether he is in abundance or in need. This contentment is not based on his material circumstances but on his reliance on Christ, who gives him strength. Paul's perspective challenges us to shift our focus from the pursuit of material gain to the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.
True contentment is found in a deep and abiding relationship with Christ. When we rely on Him for our strength and satisfaction, we are freed from the constant striving for more. This does not mean that we should not work hard or seek to improve our circumstances, but rather that our ultimate source of joy and fulfillment should be found in Christ alone. By cultivating a heart of contentment, we can experience the peace and joy that comes from trusting in God's provision and sovereignty. [38:52]
Philippians 4:11-13 (ESV): "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle with contentment? How can you begin to rely more on Christ for your strength and satisfaction, rather than on your material circumstances?
Day 4: The Danger of Divided Loyalties
Jesus warns that we cannot serve both God and mammon (material wealth). When wealth becomes an object of worship, it takes priority over God, leading to divided loyalties and spiritual peril. Our ultimate devotion must be to God alone. Jesus' teaching on serving two masters is a clear warning about the danger of divided loyalties. When wealth becomes an object of worship, it takes priority over our relationship with God. This divided loyalty can lead to spiritual peril, as we become more focused on accumulating material possessions than on seeking God's kingdom. Jesus' words challenge us to examine our hearts and ensure that our ultimate devotion is to God alone.
The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. When we allow material wealth to take precedence, we risk falling into the trap of idolatry. This does not mean that we cannot have wealth or possessions, but rather that they should not become the primary focus of our lives. By prioritizing our relationship with God and seeking His kingdom first, we can avoid the spiritual dangers associated with divided loyalties and experience the fullness of life that comes from serving Him wholeheartedly. [35:44]
Matthew 6:24 (ESV): "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where your loyalty is divided between God and material wealth? How can you begin to prioritize your relationship with God and seek His kingdom above all else?
Day 5: The Call to Sacrifice
Jesus' instruction to the rich young ruler to sell all he had and follow Him underscores the need for total commitment. We must be willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God, valuing Him above all else. This radical call to discipleship is essential for true spiritual growth. Jesus' call to the rich young ruler to sell all he had and follow Him is a powerful reminder of the need for total commitment in our walk with God. This instruction was not just about renouncing wealth, but about prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else. The rich young ruler's reluctance to part with his possessions revealed that his wealth had become an idol, hindering his relationship with God.
True discipleship requires a willingness to let go of anything that stands in the way of our full commitment to Christ. This may involve sacrificing material possessions, personal ambitions, or even relationships that hinder our spiritual growth. By valuing God above all else and seeking His kingdom first, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from a life devoted to Him. This radical call to discipleship is essential for true spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. [49:44]
Luke 14:33 (ESV): "So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple."
Reflection: What is one thing in your life that you need to let go of in order to fully commit to following Christ? How can you begin to take steps towards valuing God above all else and seeking His kingdom first?
Quotes
1. "How ridiculous was it for the rich young ruler to be reaching for riches that could never satisfy him? The fact that it was mentioned and recalled in detail three times out of the four gospels makes it pretty important. So there must be some fairly important lessons that we can learn from the story of the rich young ruler." [22:23] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Riches in themselves are neither good nor bad. It's really our attitude to riches and our use of riches that makes them either good or bad. Let's talk a little bit about how the Bible talks about riches. In some places in the Old Testament, instead of being, riches has been seen as being a bad thing, riches were actually seen as being a good thing, would you believe it?" [24:56] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Wealth can be a blessing from God, but wealth is also a danger in that it can make a person proud that they no longer depend on the Lord. So it's really about the attitude of the believer towards wealth. It's about the attitude towards riches and his use of the riches that determines whether or not they're a blessing. For the believer, riches should never be an end in themselves." [33:08] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus is warning here that we can't have one foot in the kingdom of God and another foot in the world. Our loyalties become divided. And mammon, it really, it's about when material wealth, controls you and consumes you, then that's when the Bible calls it mammon. Mammon is wealth that has become an object of worship or devotion. It's material wealth that has taken priority over God." [36:24] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It could be easy to think that if you can just get enough money not to have to worry about things, then life would be so much better and we can have a happy life. But if we spend too much of our time striving after something that is not real, striving after something that will never give us true satisfaction, it takes away from our true source of joy and happiness." [37:41] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "For the richest people in the world, many of them are still striving for the next billion or the next 10 billion. They can never settle. They always have to have more. When you compare that with the attitude of Paul, the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4, verses 11 to 13, he says, Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am to be content." [38:52] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "So money, when our attitude towards money turns it into mammon, it's very definitely bad. It's when money steals our heart away from God that it becomes bad because we can't serve two masters. It could be easy to think that if you can just get enough money not to have to worry about things, then life would be so much better and we can have a happy life." [37:04] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Paul talking to Timothy in this chapter brings so many truths home. The fact that no matter how much we gain, even those people that are billionaires, they brought nothing into this world and they can take nothing with them." [41:13] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "So how ridiculous it is when we start spending a lot of our time reaching for something that's not real. Just as I was trying to reach for that ball that was not real. How ridiculous is that? And yet so often it can be tempting to reach out for fame, for fortune, for all kinds of things that take us away from seeking after the one true God." [38:18] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Selling all so that we can have the pearl of greatest price is all about valuing Jesus above all else. I read recently there that there was a diamond, a very expensive diamond that was found recently in a mine in Botswana. And it's a diamond that must be about that size. Huge. There was a diamond just slightly bigger than that found in, I think it was 1906 or something like that there in South Africa." [51:19] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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