Friday 2 August 2013

Read: Matthew 25:14–30; Acts 18:1–4, 24–28

It is often thought in Christian circles that the pinnacles of Christian service are evangelism, mission, or some degree of service in the church. Such a lie needs to be dispelled and destroyed in our churches. Now, not to downplay the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) to which all Christians are called, however, not all of us are evangelists, missionaries, or pastors (1 Corinthians 12:29–30).

 

I want to give particular attention to money and business in the church. Why? Because Jesus gives attention to it, and money and business are usually never looked upon in a positive light. However, the comments made are applicable to any gift, talent, or ability that God gives us. Each one of us is given gifts, talents, and abilities by God. Some will receive more, some will receive less, but each is given gifts according to their ability (Matthew 25:15).

 

To some, the gift of financial wisdom and business management is given, and this ability, I daresay, is for the multiplication, extension, and investment in Kingdom initiatives. Now, it's not to say every cent must go to the church, that's just bad business practice, but they are fully accountable for how they manage their surplus in light of the eternal Kingdom. There is a reason why Jesus makes a big deal about the relationship between money and a person’s salvation.

 

We have a number of examples of those who have a godly perspective of their finances. There is Joseph (Acts 4:36–37, in contrast to Ananias and Sapphira, 5:1–10), Dorcas (Acts 9:36–43), Lydia (Acts 16:13-15) and Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1–4).

 

What is notable in each of these people is their generosity towards the church and its mission. While it may not be written plainly, I will venture to say that they were exercising their gifts, talents, and abilities in their craft and business management skills for the purposes of the kingdom.

 

Neither does it suggest business people can’t be active in church life. The example of Aquila and Priscilla reminds us that we are still to take part it the work of discipleship (Acts 18:24–28). They took a rising preacher and teacher, Apollos, and corrected the incorrect ideas he was taught. Apollos goes on to make a significant contribution in the life of the early church, and credit can certainly be given to the input of Aquila and Priscilla.

 

Each one of us has a part to play in the body of Christ. Whether it be in business, the arts, science, education, law, hospitality, or managing a home, each one of us is to exercise our gifts, talents, and abilities to their fullest extent for the Kingdom of God. If you're unsure about your gifts, or how you might use them in the Kingdom, speak to a more mature believer who might be able to provide you with guidance and wisdom in this matter.

 

Prayer:

Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.

 

Adoration:

 

Confession:

 

Thanks:

 

Supplication:

¥ Praise God for those who serve as volunteers in your church in various ministries. Try to pray for as many of them by name as you can. Pray that God would encourage them in their service for Him and that He would give them wisdom and guidance as they seek to serve Him. Pray that God would grow in your heart and the hearts of the congregation a desire to serve others.

¥ Pray for the older members of the congregation in your church. Pray that God would encourage and strengthen their spirits and their trust in Him. Pray that they would seek to use their age and wisdom to serve others inside and outside the church. Pray that they would have a passion to share Jesus with others.

 

Discussion Questions For Families and Groups

1. What are the most difficult things in your life to sacrifice for the Kingdom? What are the obstacles and barriers to giving these things up for God? (Note: It’s not just material possessions.)

2. How would your local community change if people invested of themselves for the sake of the Kingdom? What are the things you think people will notice if you gave them up? How would people react?