February 8

Sermon Outline

Title: Rich in Poverty or Wealth
Text: James 1:2, 9–11

 Intro: Two Myths about Money (James 1:2, 8; Matt. 6:24)

1.    Money equals worth

2.    Money equals security

 I. The Riches of Poverty (James 1:9)

·       The poor believer’s exalted position in Christ

·       Eternal inheritance outweighs present lack

·       Worth rooted in adoption, not possessions

 II. The Poverty of Riches (James 1:10a)

·       The rich believer’s humiliation before God

·       Wealth gives no spiritual advantage

·       Danger of trusting uncertain riches

 III. The Sobering Reality of Temporary Wealth (James 1:10b–11)

·       Human life and material glory are fleeting

·       Death is the great equalizer

·       Only what is eternal truly lasts

 Conclusion:

·       Poverty exposes the vastness of our treasure in Christ

·       Wealth exposes the emptiness of earthly security

·       Call to live for the eternal, not the temporary

Small Group Discussion Questions

1. Joy in Financial Trials

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” — James 1:2

 Question:
How does James’s command to “count it all joy” challenge the way you normally respond to financial stress or uncertainty?

2. Divided Loyalties

“Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” — Matthew 6:24

 Question:
What are some subtle ways money competes with God for your trust, affection, or decision-making?

3. When Worth Feels Tied to Income

“Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted.” — James 1:9

 Question:
In what ways have you felt tempted to measure your worth by your income, job title, or lifestyle?

4. Comparing Toys

“A man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” — Luke 12:15

 Question:
Where do you most feel the pull of comparison—possessions, experiences, vacations, or lifestyle?

5. Exalted Though Poor

“And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” — Ephesians 2:6

 Question:
How does remembering your position in Christ reshape the way you think about present-day lack?

6. The Humbling Ground at the Cross

“But the rich, in that he is made low.” — James 1:10

 Question:
Why is it difficult—especially for successful people—to embrace spiritual humility?

7. Trusting Uncertain Riches

“Nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God.” — 1 Timothy 6:17

Question:
What practical steps help you shift trust from financial security to the living God?

Leader Notes:

·       Think about practices like generosity, prayer, or simplicity.

8. The Withering Flower

“For as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.” — James 1:10–11

 Question:
What experiences have reminded you how quickly success, comfort, or security can fade?

9. The One-Inch Life

“The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” — Isaiah 40:8

 Question:
If your life is one inch on the rope of eternity, what are you most tempted to spend that inch on?

10. What Are You Living For?

“So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” — Luke 12:20–21

Question:
What would most devastate you if God took it away—and what does that reveal about your heart?