The Character of Jesus 25
Luke 12
Contentment
- Characteristic:
Contentment
- (1, 13 – 14, 15, 22, 41) The initial audience was the disciples, although the multitude could hear what was being said, and Jesus expected the multitude to make generalizations from it. The last paragraph was directed towards the multitude (54).
- (1) Unspiritual or legalistic leaders ruin the contentment of the family of God.
- (2 – 3) Secrets ruin contentment. Recognize that there are no secrets.
- (4 – 12) Fear ruins contentment. Recognize who is really in charge.
- (13 – 21) Overemphasis on possessions ruins contentment. But what is overemphasis?
- (22 – 31) Anxiety about worldly things ruins contentment. Trust God. Seek the kingdom.
- (32 – 34) Sharing enhances contentment.
- (35 – 48) Preparedness enhances contentment.
- (49 – 53) Unrealistic expectations ruin contentment.
- (54 – 59) Trust yourself to gain contentment.
- Applications of contentment today:
- Unspiritual church leaders ruin contentment for everyone.
- Only the self-deceived think there are secrets.
- Recognize the benefit of an early out.
- What is overemphasis on possessions?
- How do we overcome anxiety about worldly things?
- What unrealistic expectations ruin people today?
- What would happen if we each trusted ourselves? (cf, Galatians 6:4, 2 Corinthians 13:5)