Guard Against Guard

Scripture: Luke 12:13-34

Theme: Guard against greed for when I put God first He will meet all my needs.

Introduction: Throughout VBS we considered the theme of the invaluableness of God’s Kingdom and that we should do whatever it takes to take possession of it (i.e. through Salvation found only in Jesus Christ). We considered that same night the example of one of Christ’s disciples who left a prosperous position in which he would cheat and steal from others to follow after Jesus Christ and gain the Kingdom. The next night we considered the beautiful picture of salvation in the parable of the lost sheep and how the Shepherd in gentleness picked up the sheep, in correction picked up the sheep and carried it in the right direction, and in love bore the burden of the sheep and brought it to His home. Wednesday evening, we considered the pattern of God’s forgiveness as demonstrated in the parable of the lost son and that sin, though satisfying for a moment, leaves of bereaved of not only that pleasure but also in dire straits. The final night we considered from Matthew 7 that some treasures outlast others in that those who trust in Christ have a permanent treasure reserved for them in heaven that no one can take away: salvation! Today we want to consider the topic that plagues us all: greed-the intense and selfish desire for something, esp. wealth, power, or food. We see the effects of greed everywhere and we all want things. But, this morning we need to consider: Guard against greed for when I put God first He will meet all my needs.

Guard against greed for a person’s possessions do not define him. (V.13-15)

Beware of asking God for things that do not pertain to Him (sinful things to consume upon our lusts.

Beware of asking God for things that you will consume upon your lusts. (James 4:3)

Guard against greed for when God calls you to judgment your earthly treasures will not profit you but others. (V.16-21; What will you present to God to account for your life?)

Devotion to physical things leaves one spiritually lacking.

Devote yourself to spiritual things where it really counts.

Guard against greed for God provides all your needs. (V.22-30)

Do not worry about your life’s possessions (kind of clothing, kind of food) for your life is more than food and clothing (is not defined by the kind of food we eat or clothing we wear). (V.22-28)

Do not worry about you life’s possessions because you are not like those who do not have God, the Great provider. (V.29-30)

Guard against greed by putting God first. (V.31-34)

No physical possession matches the possession of God’s Kingdom. (V.32)

Make your permanent treasure heaven where nothing will destroy it or rob it from you, selling all your treasures if you must. (V.33)

Conclusion: