CELL NOTES 21/4/08

ICE BREAKER

If your house were on fire, what three items would you try to save?

THEME

Hands off, that’s mine!

Reading ; Matthew 19 : 16 – 26

SERMON OUTLINE

1) When on the receiving end of theft, there is a sense of violation, as well as the loss incurred.

2) Modern opportunity of identity theft.

3) Theft is apt to happen when conscience is over-ridden by greed.

4) What stops a thief? Does the existence of the commandment do that?

5) The commandments are not just “don’ts” – they define the limits of our relationship with God, and what behaviour may break that. From this side of the cross they help us know how to live in freedom.

6) “Don’t steal” was originally there to protect common property from individual greed, rather than protecting private property. It has the sense of “You shall share.”

7) The Bible has much about the rich preying on the poor – stealing in the Bible is often seen in social terms – the rich taking what they don’t need, and thus depriving others of it.

8) Attitudes to foster

              i) Hate greed.. “Money has a way of freezing people’s hands, eyes, lips and hearts.” Where is my treasure?

             ii) Be detached from posessions. Give. Giving in a small way imitates God.

            iii) Share what I have.

             iv) Trust God as provider.

9) 1Chron 29 : 11 - 12.

QUESTIONS OF APPLICATION

Read the passage. What does it say to you?

1) Have you ever been the victim of theft? How did it feel? Have you ever been involved in any way in stealing? How did that feel?

2) Jesus hit the man where it hurt – his pocket. What topic may he raise with you?

3) Why is Jesus so tough on riches?

4) When have you struggled with greed/ selfishness? When have you been most able to be generous?

5) What have you given up to follow Jesus?

6) Does this topic raise any specific challenge for you?