Bible Study on Greed: The Danger of Coveting Wealth
Opening Prayer
Introduction
Greed is a strong desire for material gain, often at the expense of others. The Bible warns against greed and encourages contentment, generosity, and trust in God’s provision.
1. Definition of Greed
Question: What is greed, and how does it manifest in daily life?
Key Verse:
📖 Luke 12:15 – Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
🔍 Discussion:
Why does Jesus warn against greed?
How does society encourage a materialistic mindset?
2. The Root of Greed: A Heart Issue
Question: What motivates greed?
Key Verses:
📖 1 Timothy 6:9-10 – Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.
📖 Colossians 3:5 – Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.
🔍 Discussion:
Why is greed called “idolatry” in Colossians 3:5?
How does greed lead to other sins?
3. Biblical Examples of Greed and Its Consequences
Question: What happens when people let greed control them?
Example 1: Achan’s Greed (Joshua 7:20-21)
Achan stole from the spoils of Jericho, disobeying God’s command.
His greed led to Israel’s defeat and his own destruction.
Example 2: Judas Iscariot (Matthew 26:14-16, 27:3-5)
Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
His greed ultimately led to regret and despair.
🔍 Discussion:
How does greed blind people from making righteous decisions?
What are modern examples of greed leading to destruction?
4. Contentment and Generosity: The Antidote to Greed
Question: How can we guard our hearts against greed?
Key Verses:
📖 Hebrews 13:5 – Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
📖 1 Timothy 6:6 – But godliness with contentment is great gain.
📖 Proverbs 11:25 – A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
🔍 Discussion:
What does true contentment look like in a Christian’s life?
How does generosity combat the spirit of greed?
5. Practical Steps to Overcome Greed
Examine Your Heart – Are you prioritizing wealth over God? (Matthew 6:33)
Practice Gratitude – Thank God for what you have. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Be Generous – Give to those in need. (Acts 20:35)
Trust in God’s Provision – Believe that God will meet your needs. (Philippians 4:19)
Closing Reflection & Prayer
Personal Reflection: In what ways do I struggle with greed?
Prayer: Ask God for a heart of contentment, trust, and generosity.
Would you like me to expand on any section or provide additional study questions? 😊