Word Count: 431 – Est Read Time: 2 Minutes
What’s Up: Jesus spoke more about wealth and possessions than almost any other topic. And yet, pastors shy away from teaching on it. Why?
So What: The problem is simple: most sermons about money are about “gimme gimme gimme.” But Jesus didn’t center his lessons on the church’s financial needs. Instead, he taught financial discipleship principles that could radically change how we live and handle our money—if we’re bold enough to preach them.
The Points:
- Make Friends with Your Money. Jesus said the people of darkness are savvier with their resources than the people of light (Luke 16:8). What if our sermons taught people how to use money to build relationships and community?
Teach Investments. The Parable of the Talents isn’t just about stewardship; it’s about making smart investments. When was the last time your congregation heard a sermon on making their money work for them instead of working for the money?
Debt Is a Spiritual Issue. The New Testament is clear: debt enslaves (Romans 13:8). How many of your members are shackled by financial burdens, unaware that Scripture offers a path to freedom?
Entrepreneurship Is Biblical. Paul’s letters encouraged believers to work with their hands and mind their business (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Yet most sermons miss the chance to connect faith with financial independence.
And … ?
Pastors often avoid preaching about money because they fear being seen as succumbing to the prosperity gospel. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: ignoring sound, biblical financial training is leaving your congregation spiritually and practically unprepared. Jesus didn’t just talk about giving; he taught about saving, investing, and using wealth wisely.
Many of your members are drowning in debt. Some are trapped in cycles of paycheck-to-paycheck living. They don’t need another sermon asking for their tithes. They need guidance on how to manage their finances in a way that honors God and provides for their families. Teaching on money isn’t just practical; it’s deeply spiritual.
The stakes are high. Churches often wonder why attendance is declining and engagement is waning. One reason is that the church isn’t addressing real-life issues—and what’s more real than money? By tackling this head-on, you’re not just equipping your members; you’re empowering them to live out their faith in every aspect of their lives.
Action! Pull out your annual preaching calendar and plan at least three financial sermon series that don’t culminate in a call to tithe (save that for your annual stewardship series). Focus on debt reduction, smart investing, and using wealth to build community. Equip them with tools, not guilt.
