Drew Oakley
April 30th, 2023
Introduction
Does our money add meaning to our lives or is it the meaning of our lives?
Discussion Questions
What do you feel you regularly spend too much money on?
When it comes to managing money, what are three words that best describe you?
Parables are fictional stories Jesus told in order to teach his followers something important. On that note, read Luke 16:1–13.
Look up the definition of the word “shrewd.” Why would the master describe the manager’s actions as shrewd?
In one sentence, try to clarify what Jesus was challenging his listeners to do.
In verse 11, Jesus contrasts worldly wealth with true riches. What do you think are the “true riches” Jesus refers to? Are you currently being entrusted with any true riches?
If it’s true that no one can serve both God and money, what are the differences between the person who serves money and the person who serves God?
At funerals, people tell stories as opposed to parading “stuff.” Which of these questions can help you shift from “stuff” to “stories”?
What do you want people to line up to thank you for at the end of your life?
What breaks your heart right now that you could use your money to do something about?
If money is intended to be a means to something rather than the meaning of life, what would be a win statement for your money? If it’s not just consumption, upgrades, and waste, what is it?
Moving Forward
If you choose to live for yourself, you’ll only have yourself to show for it. This week, spend some time wrestling with one thing that breaks your heart—something that perhaps you can be a means to helping. What step can you take to move in that direction. How can this group help?