THE SIN OF COVETOUSNESS

Introduction:

A. What Is Covetousness?

1. Evil desire for something someone else has.

2. Lusting for something not belonging to us.

B. What Does Jesus Say About Covetousness?

Body: Luke 12: 13 - 21

I. "An Innocent Question."

A. Divide the inheritance.

1. A family dispute over the inheritance.

2. Asking a "Rabbi" to intervene.

B. Take Heed.

1. Beware of covetousness = introduction to topic.

2. Life does not equal what you own.

II. The Parable About The Rich Fool.

A. Blessed with bumper crop.

1. Sows a crop in the springtime.

2. Crop produces extra well.

3. Unable to store all of it.

B. His actions.

1. Considers what to do with goods.

2. Decides to build bigger barns and retire.

3. Plans to "live the good life."

III. The Fool's Mistakes.

A. Thought only for himself.

B. Did not acknowledge the source of the abundant blessing.

1. God is the One Who had given him the crop.

2. It all belongs to God.

3. We covet what is God's when we store only for self.

C. Laid up his treasure on earth.

D. Lost everything - including his eternal life.

Conclusion:

A. What Have You Done With "Your Abundance?"

1. Stored it up for self?

2. Being rich toward God?

B. Have You Coveted That Which Does Not Belong To You?