LifeGroup Notes July 25, 2010; Heroes and Villains; Part Three
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~~JUST ONE SHOT TO GET IT RIGHT
OVERVIEW: Last week, for the first time in the series “Heroes and Villains,” we looked at a “non” hero. In fact, we looked at a pair of them in Ananias and his wife Sapphira. Peter said of them that they had “let Satan fill their hearts” as they lied to the Apostles, and to the Holy Spirit, about the offering the were bringing. This is a shocking story, and one in which we are left with as many unanswered questions as ones we have answers for. There are, however, some powerful lessons that we can take away from the story.
Please read the story again in Acts 5:1-11, and then discuss some of the lessons together that Pastor Terry brought up in his message over the weekend.
LESSON ONE: Live for the applause of One
One explanation for why Ananias and Sapphira might have done what they did is the trap that we have all fallen into in our lives at one time or another… to seek the recognition and applause of men.
- What are some of the pitfalls of seeking the approval of people?
- Does the approval of people endure, or are humans prone to turn on each other as soon someone disappoints?
- Read Matthew 6:5-6 and 16-18. Talk about how God desires us to live out our spirituality.
LESSON TWO: How you handle money is a heart issue
- Read Matthew 6:19-21. Talk about the contrast between our earthly treasures and our heavenly ones. Talk about how and why this test is a gauge to the condition of our heart.
- Read Matthew 19:23-26. What is the challenge our possessions and money create for us? What is the antidote to the challenge?
LESSON THREE: Don’t equate your spirituality with your generosity.
- Read 1 Corinthians 13:3-7. Does generosity by itself amount to anything eternal?
- What is it that sanctifies a generous gift?
LESSON FOUR: Give in secret and God will reward you in public.
- Read Matthew 6:1-3 Talk about scenarios where you have been blessed by someone anonymously. When you don’t have a person to thank, who does that leave as the only possible recipient of our gratitude?
LESSON FIVE: Contentment is developed through generous living and giving
- Read Acts 20: 32-35 As you read this verse, talk about difference between the value system of the kingdom of God verses the kingdom of the world.
TAKE AWAY In your times of prayer this week, take time to evaluate the generousness of your heart, and you attitude about generosity. Not only with money, but with your life. Bring it before the Lord and ask Him to reveal His heart to you.