1. The Danger – Longing to possess riches we don’t have (1 Timothy 6:3-10):

2. The Duty – Learning to release the riches we do have (1 Timothy 6:17-19):

For Further Thought and Discussion

Getting Started
1. What was helpful to you in this week’s sermon? What didn’t you understand?

Going Deeper
2. Read 1 Timothy 3:3, 8. According to Paul, what must not be true of an overseer or deacon? How does Paul want leaders in the church to view money (see also Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 5:2)? Why would Paul be so concerned about this issue? What motivated the false teachers who were infiltrating the Ephesian church (see 1 Timothy 6:3-5; contrast 1 Timothy 6:5 with 1 Timothy 3:8)?

3. Read 1 Timothy 6:6-8. According to Paul, what “gain” comes from godliness (compare 1 Timothy 4:7-8)? How does Paul’s vision of contentment differ from the philosophers of his day (see Philippians 4:11-13)?

4. Read 1 Timothy 6:9-10. What isn’t Paul saying about money in this passage? Why is the “love of money” (compare 1 Timothy 3:3) so spiritually dangerous? Why are the love of God and the love of money mutually exclusive (see Matthew 6:24)?

5. Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19. Who does Paul address in this passage? Why would he feel the need to address this group after warning about the dangers of money (1 Timothy 6:9-10)? Why is this passage particularly relevant for people living in the Bay Area today? How does Paul describe true “riches” in this section? How does this reshape our perspective on wealth (compare Matthew 6:19-23; Luke 12:15-21)?

Application
6. Why is money a spiritual issue? Do you tend to view money as “trash” (something not even worth thinking about) or “treasure” (the ultimate thing we must pursue)? How does Paul’s teaching on money and possessions challenge you?

7. Jeff drew a few lessons from 1 Timothy 6:17-19 on what we must release to be generous with our money. Which of these stood out to you why?

8. What’s one thing you can do this week to apply this message?