Summary

This sermon focuses on the practical aspects of tithing, moving beyond theological arguments to provide concrete steps for implementation. Kent emphasizes that tithing should be viewed as a foundational, non-negotiable practice rather than a burdensome obligation. He argues that Jesus himself indicated tithing should be the 'easy thing to do' while focusing on weightier matters like justice and mercy. The message centers on the fundamental choice between serving God or money, as outlined in Jesus' teaching that no one can serve two masters. Kent provides detailed practical advice including budgeting strategies, debt elimination through the snowball method, expense reduction techniques, and systematic approaches to money management that prioritize giving first, then saving, then spending.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts and minds, ready to receive what You want to teach us about stewardship and faithfulness. We acknowledge that everything we have comes from You, and we ask for wisdom to understand how You want us to handle the resources You've entrusted to us. Help us to set aside any defensiveness or preconceived notions, and give us courage to honestly examine our relationship with money and possessions. Holy Spirit, speak to each person here according to their specific needs and circumstances. We pray that our discussion today would draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's one piece of practical advice (about anything - cooking, parenting, work, etc.) that you wish someone had given you earlier in life?

Key Verses

1. Matthew 23:23
2. Matthew 6:24

Questions

1. Kent mentioned that Jesus said tithing should be the 'easy thing to do' while focusing on weightier matters. How does this perspective challenge or change your view of tithing?
2. Jesus taught that 'no one can serve both God and money.' What are some practical ways that money can become our master without us realizing it?
3. The sermon emphasized budgeting with tithing as the first line item. What obstacles or fears do you face when thinking about prioritizing giving in your budget?
4. Kent shared about making difficult sacrifices (like moving to a cheaper home) to get out of debt. What sacrifices might be necessary in your life to achieve financial freedom?
5. How do you respond to the idea that wealthy Christians tend to be incredibly generous? What does this suggest about the relationship between faithfulness and blessing?
6. The snowball method for debt elimination was presented as a practical strategy. What other areas of life could benefit from this kind of systematic, step-by-step approach?
7. Kent mentioned using 'worldly wealth to gain friends' based on Jesus' parable. How can we use our resources to advance God's kingdom and build eternal relationships?
8. What's the difference between being a 'conduit' versus a 'bucket' when it comes to the resources God gives us? Which one better describes your current approach?

Life Application

This week, take one concrete step toward financial faithfulness. This could be creating your first budget, setting up automatic tithing, beginning the debt snowball method, or eliminating one unnecessary expense. Choose something specific and actionable that moves you toward being able to prioritize giving in your financial life. Share your chosen step with someone who can encourage and hold you accountable.

Key Takeaways

1. Tithing should be viewed as the foundational, 'easy' part of Christian discipleship, not a burdensome obligation
2. You cannot serve both God and money - one will become your master
3. Practical financial health requires budgeting with giving as the first priority, followed by saving, then spending
4. Debt elimination through intentional sacrifice and the snowball method is essential for financial freedom
5. Wealthy Christians tend to be incredibly generous, suggesting that faithfulness with little leads to blessing and greater generosity

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of honest discussion about money, stewardship, and faithfulness. We acknowledge that this topic can be challenging and uncomfortable, but we trust that You want what's best for us. Help each person here to take the next right step in their financial journey, whether that's creating a budget, eliminating debt, or stepping into tithing for the first time. Give us courage to make the hard choices that lead to freedom, and wisdom to use our resources for Your kingdom purposes. We want to be conduits of Your blessing, not just collectors of wealth. Transform our hearts and our habits so that we might serve You rather than money. Guide us as we seek to be faithful stewards of all You've given us. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.