Message Notes
Look Back
Who did you recruit to help you reach another person with the good news of Jesus Christ?
Look Up
Read 1 Peter 4:9-11
- What does it look like for someone to “offer hospitality without grumbling”? Who do you know who does this consistently?
- What does it mean to use “whatever gift” we have received to serve others? What kinds of gifts is Peter referring to and where does Peter say they come from?
- In verse 11, what does Peter describe as the desired result of our using our gifts? Why is it important to stay focused on, and committed to this when serving others with our gifts?
Read 1 Timothy 6:7-10
- How does this passage reinforce the importance of being a good steward of gifts God has given us? What warnings and challenges are included in these verses?
- To what extent does being “content” with what God has given us influence a person’s willingness to serve others with what they have? How have you experienced this?
Read Luke 21:1–4
- How did the widow’s actions compare with the teaching and warnings in the verses from 1 Peter and 1 Timothy? What specifically did she do, or not do, from these verses?
- What motivated the woman to give what she had to God? What was she focused on and what did she have to believe? How easy or hard is it for you to apply this in your life?
Overall (Discovery Bible Study)
- What do these scriptures say about God?
- What do they say about people?
- How will I apply this to my life?
Look Ahead
How will you give a few minutes of your week to serve God and others this week?
Notes
Why would Jesus celebrate the widow's small gift? Does God really need any of our time, talent and treasure? The key point and consistent message of these passages is that the antidote to self focused faith is generosity. When we give what we have in faith, it makes an impression on Jesus. If we have an abundance of time, talent or treasure and give some, it is obedience. When we give out of your poverty of time, talent or treasure, it is even more significant, and heaven celebrates what the world does not see or appreciate.
