Disciple (n./v.): The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew 19:16-30
Usually when we read the story of the rich young man, we identify him as someone significantly richer than ourselves. Is that true? Even the poorest in America fall in the top 30% worldwide. Do you have a job, a car, a house? Welcome to the top 5%. What’s it worth to ya’?
Monday, September 23
Read Matthew 19:16-30. The rich young man seems like a nice guy! What does he lack? Why does he go away sad? Does this mean we have to sell everything to be Christians? If not, what does it mean?
Tuesday, September 24
After reviewing Matthew 19:16-30, read Matthew 6:19-34. What do you treasure? If someone observed your life for the first time, would they come up with the same answer? If we’re seeking the kingdom and his righteousness, what do we do with the extra God gives us?
Wednesday, September 25
After reviewing Matthew 19:16-30, read James 2. Favoritism extends beyond dinner guests. Who are you paying “special attention” to? The rich? The powerful? The celebrity? What does that say about you? Do we even see the needy in the world? Whose fault is that?
Thursday, September 26
After reviewing Matthew 19:16-30, read Ephesians 5:1-5, Colossians 3:1-5. What does Paul have to say about greed? (Hint: It shows up in both passages) Why is greed singled out? What kinds of sin blossom from greed?
Friday, September 27
After reviewing Matthew 19:16-30, read Acts 4:32-35. Communism! Kinda. Are your possessions actually your own? Who really owns your stuff? If God owns your stuff and you are just a steward, then what should we do with the things we don’t need?
Saturday, September 28
After reviewing Matthew 19:16-30, read 1 Corinthians 8:1-15. Suppose the rich young ruler sold everything. He followed Jesus with a heart of love. How does he speak to his rich friends? Did selling his stuff earn him anything? What are the dangers here?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com