LIVES THAT CAUTION: Impact of Choices

A Study of Old Testament Characters Whose Actions Brought Negative Consequences

Series Overview

This study examines individuals whose single appearances in Scripture serve as powerful warnings about the consequences of poor choices, while encouraging us toward faithful Christian living. (Sessions 1-6: Focus on individual choices and their community impact - Sessions 7-10: Focus on the gradual drift from faithfulness and its consequences) These cautionary tales remind us that we are all capable of making choices that harm ourselves and others. Yet they also point us to the hope we have in Christ, who provides the wisdom, strength, and grace we need to walk faithfully. As we study these lives, may we be encouraged to pursue righteousness, seek wise counsel, and trust in God's unfailing love. (Editable Series DOC)

Session 1: Achan "The Hidden Sin That Destroys Community"- Joshua 7:1-26; 1 Corinthians 10:12; James 1:14-15
— Printable Download — (Printable Bookmark for Session 1)

Purpose Statement: To understand how secret sin affects not just ourselves but our entire community, and to encourage transparency and accountability in our Christian walk.

Joshua 7:1-26

1 But the Israelites were unfaithful in regard to the devoted things; Achan son of Karmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of them. So the Lord’s anger burned against Israel.

2 Now Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is near Beth Aven to the east of Bethel, and told them, “Go up and spy out the region.” So the men went up and spied out Ai.

3 When they returned to Joshua, they said, “Not all the army will have to go up against Ai. Send two or three thousand men to take it and do not weary the whole army, for only a few people live there.” 4 So about three thousand went up; but they were routed by the men of Ai, 5 who killed about thirty-six of them. They chased the Israelites from the city gate as far as the stone quarries and struck them down on the slopes. At this the hearts of the people melted in fear and became like water.

6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the Lord, remaining there till evening. The elders of Israel did the same, and sprinkled dust on their heads. 7 And Joshua said, “Alas, Sovereign Lord, why did you ever bring this people across the Jordan to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites to destroy us? If only we had been content to stay on the other side of the Jordan! 8 Pardon your servant, Lord. What can I say, now that Israel has been routed by its enemies? 9 The Canaanites and the other people of the country will hear about this and they will surround us and wipe out our name from the earth. What then will you do for your own great name?”

10 The Lord said to Joshua, “Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions. 12 That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction.

13 “Go, consecrate the people. Tell them, ‘Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: There are devoted things among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove them.

14 “‘In the morning, present yourselves tribe by tribe. The tribe the Lord chooses shall come forward clan by clan; the clan the Lord chooses shall come forward family by family; and the family the Lord chooses shall come forward man by man. 15 Whoever is caught with the devoted things shall be destroyed by fire, along with all that belongs to him. He has violated the covenant of the Lord and has done an outrageous thing in Israel!’”

16 Early the next morning Joshua had Israel come forward by tribes, and Judah was chosen. 17 The clans of Judah came forward, and the Zerahites were chosen. He had the clan of the Zerahites come forward by families, and Zimri was chosen. 18 Joshua had his family come forward man by man, and Achan son of Karmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, was chosen.

19 Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, and honor him. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.”

20 Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath.”

22 So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran to the tent, and there it was, hidden in his tent, with the silver underneath. 23 They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the Lord.

24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold bar, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor. 25 Joshua said, “Why have you brought this trouble on us? The Lord will bring trouble on you today.”

Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the Lord turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since.

1 Corinthians 10:12

12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!

James 1:14-15

14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Share a time when you discovered that someone had been keeping a secret that affected you or your family. How did that discovery make you feel?

Have you ever experienced a situation where one person's actions had unexpected consequences for an entire group? What happened?

OVERVIEW

The story of Achan reveals one of the most sobering truths in Scripture: our secret sins are never truly secret from God, and they inevitably affect others around us. After the miraculous victory at Jericho, Israel faced a shocking defeat at the small city of Ai. The reason was not military weakness but spiritual compromise—one man's hidden disobedience had brought God's judgment upon the entire nation.

"The sin that seems so secret to us may be the very thing that is hindering the work of God in our lives and in our church. We think we can compartmentalize our lives, but God sees the whole picture. When we harbor secret sin, we're not just hurting ourselves; we're potentially undermining the very community we claim to love." - Charles Stanley

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Why would God hold an entire nation accountable for one man's sin?

Many people struggle with the apparent unfairness of Israel's defeat because of Achan's actions. This seems to conflict with our modern understanding of individual responsibility. However, this passage reveals a profound spiritual truth: we are not isolated individuals but part of a covenant community. Just as the human body suffers when one part is diseased, the spiritual community suffers when one member is in rebellion against God.

This doesn't mean we bear guilt for others' sins, but it does mean that sin has consequences that ripple outward. Israel had been called to be a holy nation, set apart for God's purposes. When Achan violated that calling, he didn't just break his personal relationship with God—he broke the communal covenant that made Israel's victories possible. The defeat at Ai was not punishment for Israel's corporate guilt, but rather the natural consequence of broken fellowship with God that affected the entire community's spiritual strength.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our individualistic culture, we often believe that "what I do in private is my own business." Social media reinforces this by allowing us to present curated versions of ourselves while hiding our struggles. However, Achan's story reveals that hidden sin still affects our communities today. When a church leader falls into moral failure, when a parent's secret addiction impacts their family, or when a community member's dishonesty undermines trust, we see the same principle at work.

The digital age has made secret sin both easier to hide and more dangerous in its consequences. Online behavior, financial dishonesty, relationship betrayals, and spiritual compromise may seem hidden, but they create spiritual barriers that weaken our effectiveness in ministry, damage our witness, and harm the very communities we're part of. Achan's story calls us to recognize that in the body of Christ, we truly are "members one of another" (Romans 12:5).

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The story of Achan in Joshua 7:1-26 powerfully illustrates how secret sin, even when hidden or considered "personal," can have devastating consequences not only for the individual but also for their family, church, and broader community.

How Secret Sin Quietly Damages More Than Ourselves:

Sin’s Impact Is Never Isolated: Achan’s private act of disobedience—taking forbidden items and hiding them in his tent—resulted in Israel’s defeat at Ai, the loss of thirty-six innocent lives, and the nation falling under God’s displeasure. This demonstrates that what we consider a "personal" sin can bring harm and spiritual setback to those around us, including our families and communities.
Spiritual Consequences for the Community: God’s anger was not just against Achan but against all Israel until the sin was exposed and dealt with. This shows that hidden sin in the life of one member can disrupt the spiritual health, unity, and effectiveness of the whole group—much like a single diseased cell can affect an entire body.
Self-Deception and the Illusion of Privacy: Achan believed his actions would not affect anyone else, but Scripture repeatedly warns that "we deceive ourselves if we think our sin only affects us". God’s omniscience means nothing is truly hidden from Him, and sin left unconfessed will eventually come to light (Numbers 32:23; Hebrews 4:13).

Warnings Against Hidden Compromise:

Loss of God’s Blessing and Protection: Because of Achan’s secret sin, Israel lost God’s favor and suffered defeat, showing that hidden compromise can remove God’s blessing and protection from our lives and communities.
Destruction Spreads Beyond the Sinner: The consequences extended to Achan’s family and the entire nation, reinforcing that disobedience brings ruin even upon the innocent.
Missed Opportunities and Regret: Had Achan waited, he would have been allowed to lawfully take spoils from the next victory at Ai. Impatience and secret compromise often rob us of God’s better plans.

Practical Steps for Integrity, Accountability, and Faith:

Confession and Repentance: The best response to hidden sin is to bring it into the light through honest confession before God and, when appropriate, before trusted believers. 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness and cleansing when we confess.
Accountability Structures: Foster relationships where mutual accountability is encouraged—whether through small groups, mentors, or spiritual friendships. This helps prevent isolation and secrecy.
Regular Self-Examination: Periodically ask God to search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24) and reveal any hidden motives or actions that need correction.
Obedience Over Self-Justification: Trust God’s commands, even when they seem restrictive or countercultural, believing that His boundaries are for our good and the well-being of those around us.
Cultivate Transparency in Community: Encourage a church or family culture where honesty and vulnerability are valued over image management or self-preservation.
Remember the Stakes: Keep in mind that the integrity of the whole community can be affected by individual choices. Let the sobering consequences of Achan’s story motivate vigilance and humility.

In a culture that often encourages secrecy and self-preservation, the story of Achan stands as a warning and a call to walk in the light—for our own sake and for the sake of all those around us.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT, The Bigger Picture of God's Plan:

Achan's story isn't ultimately about punishment—it's about the holiness required for God's people to fulfill their calling. Israel was meant to be a light to the nations, a demonstration of what life with God looks like. This required maintaining the spiritual integrity that made God's presence and power evident among them. When that integrity was compromised, their witness was undermined and their mission was hindered.

For us today, this story reveals that God's plan for His people still requires spiritual integrity. We are called to be salt and light in the world, but secret sin makes our salt lose its flavor and dims our light. The encouraging truth is that God doesn't expose our hidden sins to shame us but to restore us. Just as Israel was able to move forward after dealing with Achan's sin, we can experience restoration and renewed effectiveness when we bring our hidden struggles into the light of God's grace and the accountability of Christian community.

The ultimate goal isn't perfection but transparency—creating communities where people can be honest about their struggles, receive support in their temptations, and experience the forgiveness and restoration that comes through Christ. When we understand that our individual spiritual health affects our entire community, we're motivated not by fear but by love to pursue holiness and seek help when we need it.

Discussion Questions:

How does Achan's story challenge us about "private" sin?

What safeguards can protect us from temptation?

How can we create accountability in our Christian community?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Temptation Was Real and Attractive (Joshua 7:21) "When I saw among the spoils a beautiful Babylonian garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them."

Commentary: Achan's honesty about his temptation reveals how sin often works. The items weren't inherently evil—they were beautiful and valuable. But they were forbidden by God's clear command. Notice the progression: he saw, he coveted, he took. This mirrors the pattern James describes in James 1:14-15. Temptation often comes through our eyes and appeals to legitimate desires (beauty, security, wealth) in illegitimate ways.

Point 2: The Consequences Affected Everyone (Joshua 7:4-5) "So about three thousand men went up there from the people, but they fled before the men of Ai. And the men of Ai struck down about thirty-six of their men."

Commentary: Thirty-six men died because of one man's secret sin. This wasn't divine vindictiveness but the natural consequence of broken fellowship with God. When we compromise spiritually, we don't just hurt ourselves—we potentially weaken the effectiveness of our families, our churches, and our communities. Our secret sins create spiritual barriers that limit God's blessing and power in the corporate body.

Point 3: God's Knowledge Is Complete (Joshua 7:10-11) "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep.'"

Commentary: God knew exactly what had happened and who was responsible. Our secret sins are never secret from God. This should both sober us and comfort us—sober us because we cannot hide from God's sight, but comfort us because God's knowledge means He can lead us to specific repentance and restoration rather than leaving us in confusion about what's wrong.

Point 4: Confession Led to Resolution (Joshua 7:20-21) "And Achan answered Joshua, 'It is true! I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and this is what I have done...'"

Commentary: When confronted, Achan made a full confession. He didn't minimize his sin, blame others, or make excuses. His confession was specific and complete. While the consequences were severe, his honesty allowed the community to move forward. This shows us that confession, though difficult, is the path to resolution and restoration of fellowship.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 2)

Session 2: Gehazi "When Greed Becomes Our Master"- 2 Kings 5:20-27; 1 Timothy 6:10; Luke 12:15
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To recognize the destructive power of greed and covetousness, and to find contentment in God's provision rather than worldly gain.

2 Kings 5:20-27

20 Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said to himself, “My master was too easy on Naaman, this Aramean, by not accepting from him what he brought. As surely as the Lord lives, I will run after him and get something from him.”

21 So Gehazi hurried after Naaman. When Naaman saw him running toward him, he got down from the chariot to meet him. “Is everything all right?” he asked.

22 “Everything is all right,” Gehazi answered. “My master sent me to say, ‘Two young men from the company of the prophets have just come to me from the hill country of Ephraim. Please give them a talent of silver and two sets of clothing.’”

23 “By all means, take two talents,” said Naaman. He urged Gehazi to accept them, and then tied up the two talents of silver in two bags, with two sets of clothing. He gave them to two of his servants, and they carried them ahead of Gehazi. 24 When Gehazi came to the hill, he took the things from the servants and put them away in the house. He sent the men away and they left.

25 When he went in and stood before his master, Elisha asked him, “Where have you been, Gehazi?”

“Your servant didn’t go anywhere,” Gehazi answered.

26 But Elisha said to him, “Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you? Is this the time to take money or to accept clothes—or olive groves and vineyards, or flocks and herds, or male and female slaves? 27 Naaman’s leprosy will cling to you and to your descendants forever.” Then Gehazi went from Elisha’s presence and his skin was leprous—it had become as white as snow.

1 Timothy 6:10

10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Luke 12:15

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.”

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

What's the most generous act you've witnessed someone perform without expecting anything in return? How did it make you feel?

Have you ever regretted a purchase you made because you wanted it so badly at the time? What happened?

OVERVIEW

Gehazi's story unfolds in the shadow of one of Scripture's most beautiful acts of grace. After the Syrian general Naaman was miraculously healed of leprosy through Elisha's ministry, the prophet refused any payment, demonstrating that God's gifts cannot be bought or sold. But Gehazi, Elisha's trusted servant, couldn't bear to see such wealth walk away. His pursuit of personal gain from God's miraculous work reveals how greed can corrupt even those closest to spiritual power and ministry.

"Greed is not simply the love of money, but the love of more. It's the insatiable desire that's never satisfied, always reaching for the next thing, the next level, the next acquisition. And here's the tragedy: greed promises to fill the emptiness in our hearts, but it actually creates more emptiness. It promises security, but it delivers anxiety. It promises satisfaction, but it delivers slavery." - Andy Stanley

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Why was Gehazi's punishment so severe when others in Scripture received mercy for seemingly greater sins?

The severity of Gehazi's punishment—being struck with Naaman's leprosy—seems harsh compared to the mercy shown to others who committed apparently greater sins. However, Gehazi's sin was particularly serious because it directly contradicted the spiritual lesson God was teaching through Naaman's healing.

Elisha's refusal of payment demonstrated that God's grace cannot be purchased, earned, or commercialized. By secretly pursuing the very reward his master had refused, Gehazi was essentially saying that God's miraculous power was for sale after all. His actions threatened to corrupt the testimony of God's free grace to a Gentile seeking the true God. Furthermore, Gehazi compounded his sin with elaborate lies to both Naaman and Elisha, showing a hardened heart rather than momentary weakness. The punishment fits the crime because Gehazi's greed attacked the very nature of God's grace, turning a testimony of divine generosity into a commercial transaction.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our consumer-driven culture, Gehazi's story speaks directly to the subtle ways greed can infiltrate our spiritual lives. We live in a society that constantly tells us we need more—more stuff, more experiences, more security. Social media amplifies this by showing us what others have, creating comparison and covetousness. Even in Christian contexts, we can be tempted to monetize our spiritual gifts or use our faith connections for personal gain.

Modern examples include ministers who exploit their platforms for personal wealth, Christians who manipulate relationships for financial advantage, or believers who give primarily for tax benefits or recognition. Like Gehazi, we might justify our greed by telling ourselves we "deserve" compensation for our service or that God "wants us to prosper." The digital age has made it easier to pursue multiple income streams and side hustles, but Gehazi's story reminds us that not every opportunity aligns with God's purposes. His example calls us to examine our motives and find contentment in God's provision rather than constantly pursuing more.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The story of Gehazi (2 Kings 4:8–37; 5:15–27) is a powerful warning about the dangers of greed and covetousness, especially for those serving in spiritual roles or engaged in good work.

Gehazi: A Cautionary Tale of Greed

1. How Greed Can Take Root—Even in Spiritual Service

Proximity to God’s Work Isn’t Immunity: Gehazi was Elisha’s servant, closely involved in miracles and ministry. Yet, despite his spiritual environment, he allowed greed to fester. This shows that no one is immune to temptation—spiritual activity does not guarantee spiritual integrity.
Rationalizing Compromise: Gehazi justified his actions by thinking Naaman, a wealthy foreigner, could easily spare some gifts. Greed often starts with small rationalizations, convincing us that bending the rules is harmless or deserved.
Secrecy and Deception: Gehazi’s greed led him to lie to Naaman, deceive Elisha, and hide what he had taken. Greed often breeds further sin—dishonesty, secrecy, and hypocrisy.

2. The Cost of Chasing Worldly Gain

Loss of Integrity and Trust: Gehazi’s actions destroyed Elisha’s trust in him and damaged his own character. The pursuit of material gain at the expense of integrity always costs more than we realize.
Spiritual Consequences: Gehazi’s punishment was severe—he and his descendants were struck with Naaman’s leprosy. This highlights that the consequences of greed can be generational and deeply damaging.
Missed Blessings: Gehazi forfeited the privilege of serving alongside a great prophet and being part of God’s miracles. Greed can blind us to the true riches of God’s kingdom.

3. Practicing Contentment and Trust in God’s Provision

Cultivate Gratitude: Regularly thank God for what you have. Gratitude is a powerful antidote to covetousness (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Guard Your Heart: Be honest about your desires. Ask God to reveal areas where greed or discontent may be lurking (Proverbs 4:23).
Live Generously: Practice giving—of your time, resources, and encouragement. Generosity loosens the grip of greed (2 Corinthians 9:6–8).
Remember God’s Promises: Trust that God knows your needs and will provide (Matthew 6:31–33; Philippians 4:19).
Set Eternal Priorities: Remind yourself that true wealth is found in God, not possessions (Matthew 6:19–21).
Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with people who will lovingly challenge you if you begin to compromise your integrity for material gain.

Summary

Gehazi’s story warns us that greed and covetousness can take root even in the most spiritual settings and lead to devastating consequences. By learning from his downfall, we are called to guard our hearts, value integrity over gain, and practice contentment—trusting that God’s provision is always enough, even in a world that constantly urges us to want more.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT, The Bigger Picture of God's Plan:

Gehazi's story reveals that God's plan for His people includes modeling a radically different approach to wealth and generosity than the world around us. Elisha's refusal of payment wasn't just personal preference—it was a testimony to Naaman and the watching world that God's grace cannot be purchased. When Gehazi undermined this testimony through his greed, he attacked the very nature of the Gospel message that would later be proclaimed to all nations.

This story teaches us that our relationship with money and possessions is actually a spiritual issue that affects our witness to others. When we live with contentment, generosity, and freedom from the love of money, we demonstrate that our security comes from God rather than our accumulations. Conversely, when we're driven by greed, we suggest that God's provision is insufficient and that our hope lies in material gain rather than spiritual blessing.

The encouraging truth is that God's plan includes abundant provision for His people—not necessarily in material wealth, but in every blessing needed for a fulfilling life. When we learn to find our contentment in God's provision rather than our own accumulation, we discover the freedom that comes from trusting our heavenly Father's care. Unlike Gehazi, who lost everything in his pursuit of more, we can find joy and satisfaction in what God has already given us, while using our resources to bless others and advance His kingdom rather than building our own empires.

Discussion Questions:

What modern parallels do we see to Gehazi's greed?

How can we cultivate contentment in our daily lives?

What does generous living look like in our community?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Opportunity Seemed Too Good to Pass Up (2 Kings 5:20) "But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said to himself, 'My master was too easy on Naaman, this Aramean, by not accepting from him what he brought. As surely as the Lord lives, I will run after him and get something from him.'"

Commentary: Notice how Gehazi rationalized his greed. He convinced himself that his master had made a mistake—that Naaman should have paid something. This is how covetousness often works: we reframe situations to justify our desires. Gehazi saw an opportunity and convinced himself he was actually correcting an error rather than committing a sin. When we're driven by greed, we become expert at finding reasons why we "deserve" what we want.

Point 2: Greed Led to Elaborate Deception (2 Kings 5:22-24) "Gehazi said, 'All is well. My master sent me to say, "Two young men from the company of the prophets have just come to me from the hill country of Ephraim. Please give them a talent of silver and two sets of clothing."'"

Commentary: One sin led to another. Gehazi created an elaborate lie involving fictional young prophets in need. He even went so far as to hide the goods in his house, thinking he could cover his tracks. Greed rarely stays simple—it demands increasingly complex deceptions to sustain itself. When we pursue gain through questionable means, we often find ourselves trapped in webs of lies and cover-ups.

Point 3: God's Knowledge Cannot Be Hidden (2 Kings 5:25-26) "When he went in and stood before his master, Elisha asked him, 'Where have you been, Gehazi?' 'Your servant didn't go anywhere,' Gehazi answered. But Elisha said to him, 'Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you?'"

Commentary: Elisha's supernatural knowledge revealed that Gehazi's secret pursuit had been observed. Sometimes God grants spiritual leaders special insight, but the principle applies to all of us: our secret motivations and actions are known to God. We may fool others and even ourselves, but we cannot hide from God's sight. This should both warn us against secret sin and comfort us that God sees our struggles and can help us.

Point 4: The Consequences Matched the Crime (2 Kings 5:27) "Naaman's leprosy will cling to you and to your descendants forever." Then Gehazi went from Elisha's presence and his skin was leprous—it had become as white as snow.

Commentary: Gehazi gained Naaman's wealth but also received Naaman's former condition. The punishment was both just and symbolic—he who sought to profit from healing was himself afflicted with the very disease that had been healed. This reminds us that sin often carries its own consequences, and that pursuing gain through corrupt means often results in losing more than we hoped to gain.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 3)

Session 3: Absalom "The Tragedy of Rebellion Against Authority"- 2 Samuel 15:1-18:33; Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To understand the importance of honoring God-given authority and the devastating consequences of rebellion rooted in pride and ambition.

2 Samuel 13: This chapter details the rape of Absalom's sister, Tamar, by their half-brother Amnon, and Absalom's subsequent revenge in having Amnon murdered.

2 Samuel 14: Absalom flees to Geshur, his mother's homeland, and after three years, Joab, David's commander, orchestrates his return to Jerusalem. However, Absalom is not allowed to see his father's face for two years.

2 Samuel 15: Absalom begins to win over the hearts of the people, subtly undermining his father's authority. He then stages a rebellion in Hebron, proclaiming himself king, which forces David to flee Jerusalem.

2 Samuel 16-17: These chapters describe the unfolding of the rebellion, including various encounters and counsels given to Absalom and David, such as Ahithophel's advice and Hushai's counter-advice, which ultimately foiled Absalom's plans.

2 Samuel 18: The climactic battle takes place in the Wood of Ephraim, where Absalom's army is defeated. Absalom himself is caught by his hair in a tree and is killed by Joab, despite David's command to spare him.

2 Samuel 19: This chapter details David's immense grief over the death of Absalom and his eventual return to Jerusalem.

Romans 13:1-7

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

1 Peter 2:13-17

13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Describe a time when you had to submit to an authority figure even when you disagreed with their decision. How did that situation turn out?

Have you ever witnessed a family conflict where someone challenged parental authority? What were the lasting effects on the relationships involved?

OVERVIEW

Absalom's story is one of the most heartbreaking in Scripture—a tale of a son whose legitimate grievances became twisted into destructive rebellion. After his sister Tamar was assaulted by their half-brother Amnon, and David failed to bring justice, Absalom's anger festered into a calculated campaign to steal his father's throne. What began as righteous indignation over injustice became a civil war that tore the nation apart and ultimately cost Absalom his life, breaking his father's heart in the process.

"Rebellion against rightful authority is not just a political issue or a family issue—it's a spiritual issue. When we rebel against the authorities God has placed over us, we're ultimately rebelling against God Himself. But here's what we must understand: submission to authority doesn't mean we never question, never speak up, or never seek change. It means we do so in ways that honor God and respect the position He has established, even when we disagree with the person in that position." - John MacArthur

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

How do we reconcile submission to authority with standing up for what's right?

Many people struggle with Absalom's story because his initial anger seems justified. David had failed to bring justice after Tamar's assault, and Absalom had legitimate grievances. This creates a difficult question: when is it right to challenge authority, and when does legitimate concern become sinful rebellion?

The key distinction lies in our methods and motivations. Absalom's rebellion was rooted in pride and personal ambition rather than genuine concern for justice. He didn't seek to restore his father or reform the system—he sought to replace David entirely. His methods involved deception, manipulation, and ultimately violence. Biblical submission to authority doesn't mean we never address problems or seek change, but we do so through proper channels, with respectful attitudes, and with the goal of restoration rather than destruction. Even when authority figures fail, we can appeal to higher authorities, seek wise counsel, and work for change while maintaining respect for the position itself. Absalom's tragedy was that he allowed justified anger to become personal vengeance, turning him from a potential reformer into a destructive rebel.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our current cultural climate, authority is increasingly questioned and challenged. Social media gives everyone a platform to criticize leaders, and we're constantly exposed to the failures and flaws of those in positions of power. While healthy accountability is important, Absalom's story warns us about the dangers of allowing legitimate concerns to become destructive rebellion.

This applies to multiple areas of modern life: children challenging parental authority, employees undermining supervisors, citizens attacking government leaders, or church members rebelling against pastoral leadership. The digital age has made it easier to build coalitions against authority figures and to spread criticism widely. However, Absalom's example reminds us that even when leaders fail, our response matters. We can advocate for change, seek accountability, and work for reform while maintaining respect for the positions God has established. The goal should always be restoration and improvement, not destruction and replacement based on personal ambition. Social media criticism, family rebellion, and institutional upheaval often reflect Absalom's pattern: starting with legitimate concerns but escalating into personal vendettas that ultimately harm everyone involved.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

Absalom’s story is a vivid illustration of how pride, ambition, and a rebellious spirit, even when masked by charisma or seemingly good intentions, can lead to personal ruin and widespread division.

How Pride and Ambition Led to Ruin and Division:

Charisma Cloaking Rebellion: Absalom was attractive, charming, and knew how to win people’s hearts. He positioned himself at the city gate, listening to grievances and promising justice, subtly undermining his father David’s leadership. Through flattery and calculated gestures, he “stole the hearts of the people of Israel”. His ambition was not just for justice, but for power.
Manipulation and Deceit: Absalom orchestrated a coup by inviting influential men under false pretenses and recruiting David’s trusted counselor, Ahithophel, to his side. He used religious language and public displays of piety to legitimize his actions, but his motives were self-serving.
Consequences of Rebellion: Absalom’s actions forced David to flee Jerusalem, plunged the nation into civil war, and resulted in the deaths of thousands, including Absalom himself. His pursuit of the throne split the community and brought grief to his family and country.

Lessons on Honoring God-Established Authority:

God’s Order Matters: Absalom’s rebellion was not just against David, but against God’s chosen order. The narrative highlights the chaos and suffering that result when pride and self-will override respect for God’s appointed leaders.
The Cost of Undermining Authority: The community suffered division, loss, and instability. Absalom’s downfall warns that disregarding or undermining legitimate authority—especially for personal gain—can have far-reaching, destructive effects.

Practical Steps for Humility, Accountability, and Alignment:

Check Motives Regularly: Reflect on whether your actions and criticisms stem from a desire to serve or from pride and self-promotion.
Practice Humility: Seek to serve rather than be served, and remember that leadership and influence are entrusted by God, not seized through manipulation.
Foster Accountability: Surround yourself with wise, honest people who can challenge your motives and decisions, helping you avoid self-deception.
Respect Authority, Even in Disagreement: Honor those in leadership, praying for them and addressing concerns respectfully rather than sowing discord.
Trust God’s Timing: Resist the urge to force your way or grasp for power. Trust that God can raise up and remove leaders according to His will and timing.
Promote Unity: Prioritize the well-being of the whole community over personal ambition, working for reconciliation and peace rather than division.

Absalom’s story stands as a sobering warning: pride and ambition, unchecked by humility and reverence for God’s order, can destroy both individuals and communities. True greatness is found in humble service, accountability, and trust in God’s sovereignty.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT, The Bigger Picture of God's Plan:

Absalom's story reveals that God's plan for human flourishing includes structures of authority that provide order, protection, and justice. While earthly authorities are imperfect and sometimes fail, the principle of authority itself is part of God's design for society. When we rebel against legitimate authority, we're not just challenging human leaders—we're challenging the system God has established for human good.

However, this doesn't mean we should never seek change or address problems. The key is to do so in ways that honor God and respect the positions He has established. We can work for reform, seek accountability, and even replace leaders through proper channels while maintaining respect for the authority structure itself. The goal should always be restoration and improvement, not destruction based on personal ambition.

The encouraging truth is that God's plan includes both authority and accountability. He places leaders in positions of responsibility, but He also provides ways to address their failures without destroying the systems they lead. When we approach authority issues with humility, respect, and genuine concern for the common good rather than personal advancement, we can be agents of positive change rather than destructive rebellion. Unlike Absalom, whose pride led to tragedy, we can find ways to address problems that strengthen rather than destroy our families, churches, and communities, always remembering that our ultimate authority is God Himself, who will one day make all things right.

Discussion Questions:

How do we balance respect for authority with standing for truth?

What does proper submission look like in our various relationships?

How can we handle disappointment with leaders in godly ways?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: Legitimate Grievances Can Become Destructive Obsessions (2 Samuel 13:1-39; 15:1-6) "In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with chariots and horses and with fifty men to run ahead of him. He would get up early and stand by the side of the road leading to the city gate."

Commentary: Absalom's anger over his sister's assault was justified, but he allowed it to fester into a calculated campaign against his father's authority. Instead of seeking restoration or working within proper channels, he began positioning himself as an alternative leader. Notice how he created an impressive public image and positioned himself to intercept people seeking justice. Legitimate concerns can become destructive when we nurse them into personal vendettas rather than seeking godly resolution.

Point 2: Rebellion Often Uses Manipulation and Deception (2 Samuel 15:2-6) "Whenever anyone came with a complaint to be placed before the king for a decision, Absalom would call out to him, 'Look, your claims are valid and proper, but there is no representative of the king to hear you.'"

Commentary: Absalom didn't openly challenge David's authority initially. Instead, he undermined it through subtle manipulation, suggesting that David was failing as a leader while positioning himself as the solution. This is a common pattern in rebellion—it rarely begins with open confrontation but with whispered criticism and alternative loyalty. Absalom "stole the hearts of the people" through systematic undermining rather than honest dialogue.

Point 3: Rebellion Destroys Relationships and Communities (2 Samuel 15:13-14; 18:6-8) "A messenger came and told David, 'The hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom.' Then David said to all his officials who were with him in Jerusalem, 'Come! We must flee, or none of us will escape from Absalom.'"

Commentary: Absalom's rebellion didn't just affect his relationship with David—it split the entire nation and forced families to choose sides. The civil war that followed brought death, division, and heartbreak to countless people. Rebellion rarely remains contained; it spreads like poison through relationships and communities. Even when rebels have legitimate grievances, their methods often cause more harm than the original problems they sought to address.

Point 4: Rebellion Ultimately Destroys the Rebel (2 Samuel 18:9-15, 33) "And David was told, 'Your son Absalom is dead.' The king was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept. As he went, he said: 'O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you—O Absalom, my son, my son!'"

Commentary: The ultimate tragedy of Absalom's rebellion was not just the civil war or the broken relationships—it was the destruction of Absalom himself. His pride and ambition led to his death, breaking his father's heart and ending his own life prematurely. David's grief reveals the heart of authority figures who, despite their failures, genuinely love those under their care. Rebellion often destroys the very people it claims to liberate.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 4)

Session 4: Rehoboam "The Cost of Harsh Leadership"- 1 Kings 12:1-19; Proverbs 27:5-6; Ephesians 4:29
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To learn the importance of wise counsel and gentle leadership, understanding how our words and decisions affect others.

1 Kings 12:1-19

1 Rehoboam went to Shechem, for all Israel had gone there to make him king. 2 When Jeroboam son of Nebat heard this (he was still in Egypt, where he had fled from King Solomon), he returned from Egypt. 3 So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel went to Rehoboam and said to him: 4 “Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labor and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you.”

5 Rehoboam answered, “Go away for three days and then come back to me.” So the people went away.

6 Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. “How would you advise me to answer these people?” he asked.

7 They replied, “If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.”

8 But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him and were serving him. 9 He asked them, “What is your advice? How should we answer these people who say to me, ‘Lighten the yoke your father put on us’?”

10 The young men who had grown up with him replied, “These people have said to you, ‘Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but make our yoke lighter.’ Now tell them, ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist. 11 My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.’”

12 Three days later Jeroboam and all the people returned to Rehoboam, as the king had said, “Come back to me in three days.” 13 The king answered the people harshly. Rejecting the advice given him by the elders, 14 he followed the advice of the young men and said, “My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” 15 So the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from the Lord, to fulfill the word the Lord had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah the Shilonite.

16 When all Israel saw that the king refused to listen to them, they answered the king:

“What share do we have in David,
what part in Jesse’s son?
To your tents, Israel!
Look after your own house, David!”

So the Israelites went home. 17 But as for the Israelites who were living in the towns of Judah, Rehoboam still ruled over them.

18 King Rehoboam sent out Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, but all Israel stoned him to death. King Rehoboam, however, managed to get into his chariot and escape to Jerusalem. 19 So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.

Proverbs 27:5-6

Better is open rebuke
than hidden love.

6 Wounds from a friend can be trusted,
but an enemy multiplies kisses.

Ephesians 4:29

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

OVERVIEW

Rehoboam inherited the throne of the greatest kingdom in Israel's history, but he also inherited the people's weariness from his father Solomon's heavy taxation and forced labor. When the people came asking for relief, Rehoboam faced a crucial leadership moment. He had wise counselors available—both the experienced elders who had served his father and the young men who had grown up with him. His choice of counsel and his harsh response to the people's reasonable request split the kingdom forever, turning one nation into two and beginning centuries of division and conflict.

"The difference between a good leader and a great leader is not in their ability to command, but in their ability to serve. A harsh word may establish temporary control, but a gentle answer builds lasting influence. Leaders who lead with their ego rather than their wisdom often find themselves ruling over smaller and smaller kingdoms, because people don't follow where they don't feel valued." - Max Lucado

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Difficult Teaching: Was the division of the kingdom really God's judgment, or was it simply the result of Rehoboam's poor leadership?

Many people wonder whether the division of Israel was predetermined by God as judgment for Solomon's sins, or whether it was the natural consequence of Rehoboam's harsh leadership. The text suggests it was both. Scripture tells us that God had already determined to tear the kingdom away from Solomon's house because of his idolatry (1 Kings 11:11-13), but it also shows that the specific way this happened was through Rehoboam's poor choices.

This reveals an important principle: God's sovereign plans often work through human decisions and their natural consequences. God didn't force Rehoboam to be harsh—He allowed the king's character and choices to accomplish His purposes. The division was both divine judgment and the natural result of prideful leadership. This teaches us that while God is sovereign over history, we remain responsible for our choices and their consequences. Rehoboam's harsh words weren't just politically foolish—they were morally wrong and relationally destructive. The fact that God used them for His purposes doesn't excuse the sin or lessen the tragedy of what was lost.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our current culture of social media and instant communication, harsh words can spread faster and have more devastating effects than ever before. We live in an age where public shaming, harsh criticism, and aggressive communication have become normalized in leadership, politics, and even family relationships. Rehoboam's story reminds us that our words have power to build up or tear down, and that harsh leadership ultimately destroys what it seeks to control.

This applies to modern leadership in all contexts: parents who rule through harshness rather than wisdom, supervisors who motivate through fear rather than respect, pastors who lead through authority rather than service, and public leaders who divide rather than unite. The digital age has made it easier to speak harshly without seeing the immediate impact on people's faces, but the consequences remain real. Online arguments, harsh emails, public criticism, and aggressive social media posts can divide families, split churches, and destroy organizations just as effectively as Rehoboam's harsh words split the kingdom. His story calls us to choose our words carefully, seek wise counsel from multiple generations, and remember that gentle strength builds lasting influence while harsh power creates temporary compliance but lasting resentment.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

Rehoboam’s story is a striking example of how pride, poor decision-making, and reckless words can cause deep and lasting damage to relationships, families, and entire communities.

How Rehoboam’s Choices Caused Harm:

Rejected Wise Counsel: When the people asked Rehoboam to lighten the heavy burdens imposed by his father Solomon, he initially sought advice from the elders, who urged kindness and compassion. They told him, “If you will be kind to this people and please them, and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever”. However, Rehoboam rejected this wise counsel because it did not align with his prideful desires.
Listened to Flattering, Foolish Advice: Instead, he turned to his younger peers, who encouraged him to rule harshly and assert his authority through intimidation: “My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions”. This approach stoked his ego but alienated the people.
Spoke Recklessly and Acted Harshly: Rehoboam’s arrogant and threatening response led to outrage, rebellion, and ultimately, the permanent division of the kingdom. His decision resulted in violence, loss of trust, and the breakdown of national unity.

Lessons on Humility, Seeking Godly Advice, and Building Others Up:

The Value of Humility: Rehoboam’s downfall began with his refusal to humble himself and listen. True leadership—whether at home, work, or church—requires a willingness to serve others, not just assert authority7. Humility opens the door to wisdom and healthy relationships.
Importance of Godly Counsel: Surrounding ourselves with wise, mature advisors and being open to their input is crucial. Rehoboam’s story warns against seeking only those who tell us what we want to hear or appeal to our pride.
Power of Words and Influence: The way we use our words and authority can either build up or tear down. Rehoboam’s harshness sowed division and pain, while gentle, encouraging leadership can foster loyalty, trust, and unity.
Lasting Consequences: Poor leadership and unrepentant pride can create wounds that last for generations. Rehoboam’s choices led to a permanent split in the nation, showing that our actions can have far-reaching effects.

Practical Steps:

Practice Listening: Make it a habit to genuinely listen to others, especially those with wisdom and experience.
Seek Out and Heed Godly Advice: Don’t just consult people who agree with you. Invite feedback from those who are spiritually mature and willing to challenge you.
Cultivate Humility: Regularly ask God to search your heart for pride and to help you serve others selflessly.
Use Words to Build Up: Be intentional about encouraging, affirming, and supporting those you lead or influence.
Pray for Guidance: Before making decisions, especially in conflict, seek God’s direction rather than relying solely on your own understandin.
Lead by Example: Model servant leadership, showing that true greatness comes from serving others, not dominating them.

Rehoboam’s story is a cautionary tale: prideful, reckless leadership tears down, while humility and wise counsel build up. His example calls us to lead with humility, seek godly advice, and use our influence to strengthen—not divide—those entrusted to our care.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT, The Bigger Picture of God's Plan:

Rehoboam's story reveals that God's plan for leadership—in families, churches, and society—is based on service rather than domination. Throughout Scripture, we see that God's preferred leaders are those who serve others, who listen to wise counsel, and who use their authority to build up rather than tear down. The kingdom of God operates on principles opposite to worldly power: the greatest are servants, the first are last, and strength is shown through gentleness.

The tragedy of Rehoboam's choice is that he had the opportunity to be a great king who united and blessed his people, but he chose to be a harsh ruler who divided and weakened his kingdom. His story reminds us that leadership is ultimately about influence, not control, and that influence is built through service, wisdom, and gentle strength rather than through harsh words and domineering attitudes.

The encouraging truth is that God's plan includes redemption even for failed leaders. While Rehoboam's harsh words had lasting consequences, God continued to work through the divided kingdom, eventually bringing the Messiah through the line of David. This reminds us that our leadership failures, while serious, are not the end of the story. We can learn from Rehoboam's mistake by choosing wise counsel, speaking gentle words, and leading through service rather than harshness. Whether we're leading families, serving in churches, or influencing others in our communities, we can choose to build up rather than tear down, creating lasting positive influence through the power of gentle, servant leadership that reflects the heart of our ultimate King, Jesus Christ.

Discussion Questions:

How do we choose our counselors and advisors?

What makes the difference between helpful correction and destructive harshness?

How can we practice servant leadership in our spheres of influence?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The People's Request Was Reasonable (1 Kings 12:3-4) "So they sent for Jeroboam, and he and the whole assembly of Israel went to Rehoboam and said to him: 'Your father put a heavy yoke on us, but now lighten the harsh labor and the heavy yoke he put on us, and we will serve you.'"

Commentary: The people weren't rebelling or demanding something unreasonable—they were asking for relief from genuinely burdensome conditions. Solomon's building projects had required heavy taxation and forced labor, and the people had endured this for their beloved king. Now they were simply asking his son to govern with more consideration for their welfare. Good leaders listen to legitimate concerns and consider the burden their leadership places on others. The people even promised continued loyalty if their request was granted.

Point 2: Wise Counsel Was Available But Rejected (1 Kings 12:6-8) "Then King Rehoboam consulted the elders who had served his father Solomon during his lifetime. 'How would you advise me to answer these people?' he asked. They replied, 'If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.' But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him."

Commentary: The experienced elders gave Rehoboam perfect advice based on years of wisdom: servant leadership creates lasting loyalty. They understood that leadership is service, not domination. But Rehoboam rejected their counsel, perhaps because it seemed weak or because it didn't match his vision of kingship. This shows us the importance of seeking counsel from those with experience and wisdom, and the danger of rejecting advice simply because it doesn't align with our preferences or ego.

Point 3: Poor Counsel Appeals to Pride and Harshness (1 Kings 12:9-11) "He asked them, 'What is your advice? How should we answer these people?' The young men who had grown up with him replied, 'Give the people this answer: "My little finger is thicker than my father's waist. My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier."'"

Commentary: The young advisors appealed to Rehoboam's pride and desire to appear strong. Their advice was not just harsh but deliberately insulting, designed to establish dominance rather than build relationship. Notice how they focused on power and control rather than wisdom and service. This type of counsel often appeals to our ego and our desire to be seen as strong, but it leads to destructive leadership that ultimately weakens rather than strengthens our position.

Point 4: Harsh Words Brought Immediate and Lasting Consequences (1 Kings 12:16-19) "When all Israel saw that the king refused to listen to them, they answered the king: 'What share do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, Israel! Look after your own house, David!' So the Israelites went home. But as for the Israelites who were living in the towns of Judah, Rehoboam still ruled over them."

Commentary: The people's response was immediate and decisive. Rehoboam's harsh words didn't create fear or submission—they created rebellion and division. Within moments, he went from ruling a united kingdom to ruling only a fraction of what he had inherited. The division was permanent, leading to centuries of conflict and weakening both resulting nations. This shows us that harsh leadership often achieves the opposite of what it intends, destroying relationships and reducing influence rather than strengthening control.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 5)

Session 5: The Sons of Sceva "The Danger of Spiritual Pretense" Acts 19:13-16; Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Timothy 3:5
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To recognize the difference between genuine faith and spiritual pretense, encouraging authentic relationship with Christ.

Acts 19:13-16

13 Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. 15 One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” 16 Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding.

Matthew 7:21-23

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

2 Timothy 3:5

5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Have you ever tried to do something you weren't qualified for and it backfired spectacularly? What happened?

What's the difference between knowing someone's name and actually knowing them personally? Can you think of a time when this distinction mattered?

OVERVIEW

The story of the Sons of Sceva presents one of the most dramatic examples in Scripture of what happens when spiritual pretense meets genuine spiritual power. These seven Jewish exorcists attempted to use the name of Jesus as a magical formula without having any real relationship with Him. The result was both humiliating and dangerous—the demon-possessed man overpowered them, leaving them naked and wounded.

As Charles Spurgeon once observed: "It is not the word of Christ in our memories, but the word of Christ in our hearts, that will profit us. It is not the form of godliness, but the power of godliness that we need." This passage serves as a sobering reminder that spiritual authority cannot be borrowed, copied, or faked—it must flow from genuine relationship with Jesus Christ.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

The Difficult Teaching: Many people assume that using Jesus' name in spiritual activities automatically grants them divine protection and power. This passage reveals the shocking truth that merely invoking Jesus' name without authentic faith can actually put you in spiritual danger.

The Sons of Sceva thought they could treat Jesus' name like a magic spell or incantation. They had observed Paul's successful ministry and assumed they could replicate his results by copying his methods. However, spiritual authority doesn't work like a formula you can memorize—it flows from a living relationship with Christ. The demon's response, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?" reveals that the spiritual realm recognizes authentic authority versus mere imitation. This teaches us that spiritual pretense not only fails to provide protection but can actually expose us to greater spiritual vulnerability because we're operating without the genuine covering that comes from being truly united with Christ.

CULTURE CONNECTION

Influence on Life Today: In our social media age, we're surrounded by spiritual pretense disguised as authentic faith. From prosperity preachers who use Jesus' name to manipulate people financially, to influencers who display Christian symbols for likes and followers, to those who treat prayer like a cosmic vending machine—the spirit of the Sons of Sceva is alive and well. This passage challenges us to examine our own spiritual authenticity in a culture that often rewards performance over genuine relationship with God. The question isn't whether we use the right Christian language or attend the right events, but whether we truly know Jesus personally and are known by Him.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The story of the sons of Sceva (Acts 19:11–20) is a powerful warning about the dangers of imitating spiritual authority without a genuine relationship with Christ. These seven sons, identified as itinerant Jewish exorcists and sons of a chief priest, attempted to cast out evil spirits by invoking “the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.” However, the evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” The possessed man then overpowered them, leaving them beaten and humiliated

Dangers of Imitation Without Relationship

Superficial Faith: The sons of Sceva used Jesus’ name as a formula, thinking the right words alone held power. Their lack of personal knowledge of Christ made their efforts spiritually empty and dangerous1.
Powerless Rituals: True spiritual authority cannot be borrowed or mimicked; it flows from a real relationship with Jesus. The sons’ failure exposed the futility of spiritual pretense and the danger of treating faith as a technique rather than a relationship.
Public Exposure: Their defeat became widely known, causing fear and reverence for the name of Jesus throughout Ephesus. This public humiliation highlighted the difference between authentic spiritual power and empty imitation.

Guarding Against Going Through the Motions

Seek Personal Relationship: Spiritual authority and transformation come from knowing Christ personally, not just knowing about Him or imitating others.
Avoid Formulaic Faith: Beware of relying on routines, words, or rituals without engaging your heart and mind in genuine faith.
Regular Self-Examination: Ask God to reveal areas where your faith may be superficial or motivated by habit rather than love and trust.

Signs of Authentic Spiritual Life vs. Spiritual Pretense

Authentic Spiritual Life	Spiritual Pretense
Personal relationship with Jesus	Relying on formulas or secondhand faith
Humility and dependence on God	Pride in outward actions or knowledge
Obedience and transformation	No real change in character or priorities
Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.)	Focus on appearance or performance
Willingness to confess and repent	Hiding struggles or pretending

Pursuing a Genuine Walk with Christ

Cultivate Daily Relationship: Spend regular time in prayer, Scripture, and honest conversation with God.
Practice Obedience: Let your actions flow from love for Christ, not just obligation or imitation.
Engage in Community: Surround yourself with believers who encourage authenticity and accountability.
Confess and Repent: Be quick to admit when you’re just “going through the motions” and ask God to renew your heart.
Magnify Christ, Not Self: Let your life point to Jesus’ power and grace, not your own efforts or image.

The sons of Sceva remind us that spiritual power and authenticity come only from truly knowing Jesus, not from borrowed words or empty rituals. Their story calls us to pursue a real, humble, and transforming relationship with Christ every day.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The story of the Sons of Sceva forces us to confront an uncomfortable question: Are we operating in genuine spiritual authority that flows from an authentic relationship with Jesus, or are we merely copying Christian behaviors and language without the substance of real faith? This passage isn't just about seven failed exorcists—it's about the fundamental difference between religion and relationship, between form and substance, between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Him personally.

God's plan has always been for authentic relationship rather than religious performance. From the beginning, He desired to walk with humanity in genuine fellowship, not to be approached through ritualistic formulas or copied behaviors. The Sons of Sceva represent everyone who tries to access God's power without surrendering to His lordship, who wants the benefits of Christianity without the commitment of discipleship. Their dramatic failure serves as both warning and invitation—warning us about the dangers of spiritual pretense, while inviting us into the safety and power that comes from genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. The question each of us must answer is not whether we can use Jesus' name effectively, but whether Jesus knows our name personally and we know His heart intimately.

Discussion Questions:

How do we ensure our faith is genuine rather than performance?

What are the signs of authentic spiritual life?

How can we guard against religious hypocrisy in our own lives?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Danger of Borrowed Authority (Acts 19:13-14) "Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, 'In the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.'"

Commentary: These men were attempting to use Jesus' name as a kind of spiritual technique without having any personal relationship with Him. They had observed Paul's ministry and thought they could replicate his success by copying his methods. This reveals the dangerous assumption that spiritual power can be borrowed or imitated rather than received through authentic faith.

Point 2: The Recognition of True Authority (Acts 19:15) "One day the evil spirit answered them, 'Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?'"

Commentary: The demon's response is chilling because it reveals that the spiritual realm recognizes authentic authority versus counterfeit. The demon knew Jesus personally and recognized Paul's genuine authority, but these pretenders were completely unknown in the spiritual realm. This shows us that spiritual authority isn't about technique or formula—it's about relationship and authentic commission from God.

Point 3: The Consequences of Spiritual Pretense (Acts 19:16) "Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding."

Commentary: The physical beating these men received serves as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual consequences of religious pretense. When we try to operate in spiritual authority we don't actually possess, we leave ourselves vulnerable to defeat and humiliation. This wasn't just about losing face—it was about the real dangers that come from spiritual presumption.

Point 4: The Broader Warning (Matthew 7:21-23) "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."

Commentary: Jesus' words in Matthew echo the same principle we see with the Sons of Sceva. Using Jesus' name, even performing religious activities "in His name," doesn't automatically mean we have a relationship with Him. The terrifying reality is that some will discover too late that their spiritual activities were mere pretense, not genuine faith.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 6)

Session 6: The Rich Young Ruler "When Wealth Becomes a Barrier to Faith"- Matthew 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23; 1 Timothy 6:17-19
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To understand how material possessions can hinder our spiritual growth and to find freedom in generous living and trust in God's provision.

Matthew 19:16-22

16 Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”

17 “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.”

18 “Which ones?” he inquired.

Jesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’”

20 “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”

21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Mark 10:17-22

17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’”

20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”

21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Luke 18:18-23

18 A certain ruler asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

19 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 20 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.’”

21 “All these I have kept since I was a boy,” he said.

22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

23 When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy.

1 Timothy 6:17-19

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

What's something you once thought you couldn't live without, but later discovered you could? How did that realization change your perspective?

Have you ever had to choose between something you wanted and something you knew was right? What helped you make your decision?

OVERVIEW

The encounter between Jesus and the rich young ruler is one of the most poignant stories in the Gospels. Here was a man who seemed to have everything—wealth, youth, moral character, and religious devotion. He approached Jesus with genuine spiritual hunger, asking about eternal life. Yet when Jesus identified the one thing standing between him and the kingdom of God, the young man walked away sorrowful. His great possessions, which he thought were blessings, had become barriers to the very thing his heart most desired.

"The rich young ruler's tragedy was not that he was wealthy, but that his wealth owned him. There's a difference between having possessions and being possessed by them. When our security, identity, and hope rest in what we own rather than in who owns us, we discover that we're not really free at all. We've become slaves to the very things we thought would liberate us." - Timothy Keller

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Difficult Teaching: Did Jesus really require this man to sell everything, or was this a specific test for his particular situation?

Many people wonder whether Jesus' command to "sell everything" applies to all Christians or was specific to this young man's situation. Some argue that Jesus was addressing this individual's particular idol, while others suggest it's a universal requirement for discipleship. The key to understanding this passage lies in recognizing that Jesus saw into the heart of this man and identified what was preventing him from following God wholeheartedly.

The rich young ruler's wealth had become his functional savior—his source of security, identity, and hope. Jesus wasn't being arbitrary or harsh; He was offering the man freedom from the very thing that was enslaving him. The principle applies to all of us: whatever we cannot surrender to God has become our god. For this man, it was wealth. For others, it might be career, relationships, reputation, or comfort. Jesus' demand wasn't primarily about poverty but about lordship. He was asking, "Who is really your master?" The tragedy is that the man chose to remain enslaved to his possessions rather than experience the freedom that comes from making Jesus his true treasure.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our consumer-driven culture, the rich young ruler's story speaks directly to the challenge of finding our identity and security in material possessions. We live in an age of unprecedented wealth and material abundance, yet anxiety, depression, and spiritual emptiness are at all-time highs. Like the young ruler, we often discover that the things we've accumulated to bring us happiness and security can actually become barriers to spiritual growth and contentment.

Modern parallels include retirement accounts becoming sources of anxiety rather than security, home values determining our sense of worth, or lifestyle maintenance preventing us from generous giving or ministry involvement. Social media amplifies these pressures by constantly showing us what others have, creating comparison and covetousness. The "American Dream" itself can become a spiritual trap when it shifts from gratitude for God's provision to trust in our own accumulation. Senior adults face unique challenges as they navigate fixed incomes, healthcare costs, and concerns about leaving inheritances, all while trying to maintain a proper relationship with material possessions. The rich young ruler's story reminds us that true security comes not from what we own but from whom we trust, and that generous living often brings more joy than accumulative living.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The encounter between Jesus and the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16–30; Mark 10:17–31; Luke 18:18–23) deeply challenges our understanding of what it means to truly follow Christ, especially regarding our attachment to wealth, comfort, or status.

Key Challenges from the Story:

True Discipleship Requires Surrender: The rich young ruler approached Jesus sincerely, asking, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Though he claimed to have kept the commandments, Jesus exposed the deeper issue: his heart was tied to his possessions. Jesus told him to sell everything, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man went away sad because he was very wealthy—revealing that his riches had become an idol, standing between him and full devotion to God.
Material Possessions as Subtle Idols: The story reveals that wealth, comfort, and status can quietly take the place of God in our hearts. Even good things become idols when they become our source of security, identity, or ultimate satisfaction. The young ruler’s outward obedience masked an inward attachment to his possessions, which he valued more than following Christ.
The Danger of Divided Allegiance: Jesus’ challenge was not about a universal command for all to embrace poverty, but a call to radical trust and undivided allegiance. For this man, wealth was the obstacle; for others, it could be something else. The story warns that anything we are unwilling to surrender for Christ can become a barrier to true discipleship.

Pursuing Freedom Through Generosity, Surrender, and Trust:

Generosity as a Spiritual Discipline: Giving to others breaks the grip of materialism and realigns our hearts with God’s values. Jesus’ call to “sell and give to the poor” was an invitation to experience the freedom and joy of generosity.
Surrendering Control: Trusting God’s provision means letting go of the illusion that wealth or status can guarantee security. Jesus taught that with God, all things are possible—even the transformation of a heart attached to riches.
Reordering Priorities: The passage teaches us to put God first, recognizing that “many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” True reward and security are found in following Christ, not in accumulating possessions.

Practical Steps:

Regularly Evaluate Attachments: Ask God to reveal anything—wealth, comfort, reputation—that might be competing with your devotion to Him.
Practice Generosity: Intentionally give to those in need, supporting causes that reflect God’s heart. This helps loosen the hold of materialism.
Cultivate Gratitude and Contentment: Focus on what you have rather than what you lack, and thank God for His provision each day.
Trust God’s Promises: Meditate on Scriptures about God’s faithfulness to provide and care for His children, even when you let go of worldly security.
Follow Jesus Daily: Remember that discipleship is not a one-time decision but a daily choice to put Christ above all else, trusting Him to meet your needs.

The rich young ruler’s story is a mirror, urging us to examine what we truly treasure and to embrace the freedom, joy, and security that come from wholehearted trust in Jesus over anything the world can offer.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT, The Bigger Picture of God's Plan:

The rich young ruler's story reveals that God's plan for His people includes freedom from the tyranny of material possessions. Throughout Scripture, we see that God desires to be our ultimate source of security, identity, and hope. When we place our trust in possessions rather than in God's provision, we rob ourselves of the peace and joy that come from knowing our heavenly Father cares for us. The tragedy of this story is not that the man was wealthy, but that his wealth prevented him from experiencing the abundant life Jesus offered.

However, this story also reveals God's incredible grace and patience. Jesus didn't condemn the man for his wealth or force him to make the right choice. He offered an invitation to freedom and then respected the man's decision, even when it was the wrong one. This shows us that God's plan includes both the offer of spiritual freedom and the respect for human choice. We can choose to find our security in God's provision rather than our own accumulation, and when we do, we discover the joy that comes from generous living and trust in our heavenly Father.

The encouraging truth is that it's never too late to make the choice this young man couldn't make. We can choose to hold our possessions lightly, to find our identity in Christ rather than in our accumulations, and to experience the freedom that comes from generous living. When we trust God's provision rather than our own resources, we discover that He provides not just for our needs but for our joy, enabling us to be generous toward others and to invest in treasures that last for eternity. Unlike the rich young ruler, we can choose to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, finding in Him the treasure that satisfies our deepest longings.

Discussion Questions:

What possessions or securities do we find it hard to surrender?

How can we use our resources to honor God and serve others?

What does it mean to be "rich toward God"?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Man's Spiritual Hunger Was Genuine (Matthew 19:16, Mark 10:17) "Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, 'Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?' As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him."

Commentary: This man wasn't approaching Jesus casually. He ran to Jesus and knelt before Him, showing both urgency and respect. His question about eternal life revealed genuine spiritual hunger—he sensed something was missing despite his wealth and moral achievements. Many wealthy people today experience this same spiritual restlessness, discovering that material success doesn't satisfy the deeper longings of the heart. This man's approach shows us that spiritual hunger can coexist with material abundance.

Point 2: External Righteousness Wasn't Enough (Matthew 19:17-20) "'Why do you ask me about what is good?' Jesus replied. 'There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.' 'Which ones?' he inquired. Jesus replied, 'You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.' 'All these I have kept,' the young man said. 'What do I still lack?'"

Commentary: The man had been externally obedient to God's moral law, yet he knew something was still missing. His question "What do I still lack?" reveals self-awareness that external compliance doesn't guarantee spiritual fullness. This challenges us to examine whether our Christian lives are marked by genuine heart transformation or merely external conformity. Good behavior, while important, cannot substitute for surrendered hearts that trust completely in God's provision rather than our own resources.

Point 3: Jesus Identified the Heart Issue (Matthew 19:21) "Jesus answered, 'If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'"

Commentary: Jesus didn't give this command to everyone, but He saw that this man's possessions had become his functional god. The command to sell everything was actually an invitation to freedom—freedom from the anxiety of protecting wealth, freedom from the identity that comes from possessions, and freedom to find true treasure in relationship with God. Jesus was offering to replace the man's earthly security with heavenly treasure, but it required letting go of what felt most secure.

Point 4: The Cost of Choosing Possessions Over Christ (Matthew 19:22) "When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth."

Commentary: The man's sadness reveals the tragedy of the moment—he knew he was walking away from something precious, but he couldn't bring himself to let go of his possessions. He chose temporary security over eternal treasure, known comfort over unknown adventure with Jesus. His great wealth, which seemed like a blessing, became the very thing that prevented him from receiving the greatest blessing of all. This reminds us that our possessions can become prisons when we can't imagine life without them.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 7)

Session 7: Judas Iscariot "The Slippery Slope of Small Compromises"- John 12:4-6; Matthew 26:14-16, 47-50; 1 Timothy 6:9-10; Galatians 6:7-8
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To recognize how small compromises can lead to devastating betrayals, and to encourage vigilance in maintaining integrity in our daily walk with Christ.

John 12:4-6

4 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

Matthew 26:14-16

14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

Matthew 47-50

47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.

50 Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.”

Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.

1 Timothy 6:9-10

9 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. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Galatians 6:7-8

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Have you ever started doing something "just this once" that gradually became a habit you regretted? What was it and how did it progress?

What's something small that, when ignored or neglected, can eventually cause big problems? (Like a small leak, a tiny crack, or skipping exercise)

OVERVIEW

The tragic story of Judas Iscariot serves as one of Scripture's most sobering examples of how small compromises can lead to catastrophic spiritual failure. Judas didn't wake up one morning and decide to betray Jesus—his downfall was a gradual process that began with seemingly minor ethical compromises. As the treasurer for the disciples, he began stealing small amounts from their money bag, justifying his actions and hardening his heart one choice at a time.

As John Chrysostom, the early church father, warned: "The devil does not tempt God's servants with one great assault, but wears them down gradually with small compromises until their defenses are completely eroded." Judas's journey from disciple to betrayer illustrates how sin rarely announces itself with dramatic fanfare—instead, it whispers reasonable justifications for seemingly insignificant compromises that eventually lead us far from where we ever intended to go.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Many people believe that dramatic spiritual failures happen suddenly, but the most dangerous spiritual destruction often occurs through a slow, almost imperceptible process of small compromises that gradually erode our spiritual foundation.

Judas's betrayal wasn't a momentary lapse in judgment—it was the inevitable result of months or years of small compromises. John 12:6 reveals that "he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it." This wasn't a one-time failure but a pattern of behavior that slowly corrupted his heart. Each small theft made the next one easier to justify. Each compromise lowered his moral standards slightly. By the time he accepted thirty pieces of silver to betray Jesus, his heart had already been thoroughly compromised. This teaches us that spiritual vigilance isn't just about avoiding big, obvious sins—it's about guarding against the small, "harmless" compromises that seem insignificant but gradually poison our relationship with God. The scariest part is that this erosion often happens so slowly that we don't realize how far we've drifted until we're in spiritual crisis.

CULTURE CONNECTION

Influence on Life Today: In our culture of "white lies," creative tax deductions, and "everyone does it" mentality, we're constantly pressured to make small compromises that seem harmless. Whether it's padding expense reports, streaming content illegally, gossiping "just a little," or gradually reducing our prayer and Bible study time, we live in a world that normalizes the very compromises that destroyed Judas. Social media amplifies this by showing us only the highlight reels of others' lives, making us feel entitled to cut corners to keep up. This passage challenges us to recognize that our character is built or destroyed not in dramatic moments but in the accumulation of small daily choices. The question isn't whether we'll face big moral tests, but whether we're preparing for them by maintaining integrity in the small things.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The life and choices of Judas Iscariot demonstrate how small, unchecked compromises—such as greed, dishonesty, or resentment—can gradually harden the heart and lead to devastating betrayal and spiritual ruin.

How Small Compromises Led to Judas’s Downfall

Greed and Dishonesty: Judas, though one of the Twelve Apostles and trusted with the group’s finances, was described as dishonest and greedy. John’s Gospel notes that Judas “used to take what was put into [the money box],” highlighting a pattern of small thefts and self-serving behavior. These seemingly minor acts of dishonesty paved the way for a much greater betrayal.
Resentment and Disillusionment: Some scholars suggest Judas may have grown disillusioned with Jesus’ refusal to fulfill political or personal expectations, which, combined with his greed, made him vulnerable to further compromise
Gradual Hardening: Over time, these unchecked attitudes and actions allowed Satan to influence Judas more deeply. Both Luke and John record that “Satan entered into Judas” as he finalized his betrayal, showing how persistent compromise opens the door to greater spiritual danger.
Final Betrayal: For thirty pieces of silver, Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss—an act that has become synonymous with treachery. His story ended in regret and self-destruction, illustrating the tragic end of a life marked by unchecked compromise.

Remaining Vigilant in the “Minor” Areas

Regular Self-Examination: Continually ask God to search your heart for hidden motives or small compromises (Psalm 139:23–24). Minor lapses in honesty, generosity, or forgiveness can grow into major spiritual problems if left unaddressed.
Quick Repentance: When you become aware of sin, confess it immediately and seek God’s help to change. Don’t allow guilt or pride to keep you from repentance.
Accountability: Surround yourself with trusted believers who can lovingly confront you if you begin to drift or compromise your integrity.

Practices for Integrity, Humility, and Closeness with Christ

Daily Communion with Jesus: Maintain a living, personal relationship with Christ through prayer, Scripture, and worship. Judas was physically close to Jesus but not truly surrendered to Him.
Cultivate Humility: Recognize your vulnerability to temptation and your need for God’s grace. Pride blinds us to our weaknesses, but humility keeps us dependent on God.
Practice Integrity in Small Things: Be faithful and honest in everyday matters—finances, speech, relationships. Integrity built in small things prepares you to stand firm in bigger tests.
Resist the Normalization of Compromise: The world often excuses “small” sins, but Scripture calls us to holiness in all areas. Remember that spiritual ruin often begins with what seems insignificant.

Judas’s life is a sobering reminder: unchecked compromise, even in small things, can erode the soul and lead to spiritual disaster. Vigilance, humility, and a genuine relationship with Christ are essential to maintaining integrity and finishing well.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The tragedy of Judas Iscariot isn't just that he betrayed Jesus—it's that his betrayal was entirely preventable. Every small theft from the money bag was a choice point where he could have turned back. Every moment of greed was an opportunity for repentance. His downfall serves as a warning that spiritual destruction rarely happens overnight; it's usually the result of a series of small compromises that gradually harden our hearts and erode our character. The most dangerous lies we tell ourselves are the ones that make small compromises seem harmless: "It's just this once," "No one will know," "Everyone does it," or "It's not that big a deal."

God's plan for our lives includes both His grace for our failures and His warning about the consequences of unrepented sin. The principle of sowing and reaping (Galatians 6:7-8) isn't meant to frighten us but to help us understand that our choices have consequences that extend far beyond the moment we make them. Judas's story reminds us that we become what we repeatedly do—our character is shaped not by dramatic moments but by the accumulation of small daily choices. The good news is that just as small compromises can lead to spiritual destruction, small acts of faithfulness can build a foundation of integrity that will sustain us through life's greatest challenges. The question isn't whether we'll face temptation, but whether we're building the kind of character that can withstand it through consistent faithfulness in the small things.

Discussion Questions:

What "small" compromises do we face that could lead to bigger problems?

How can we recognize when we're beginning to drift from our commitments?

What safeguards help us maintain integrity in our relationships and responsibilities?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Pattern of Small Thefts (John 12:4-6) "But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 'Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages.' He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it."

Commentary: Judas's objection to Mary's extravagant worship appears spiritual and caring, but John reveals his true motive—he wanted the money in the bag so he could steal from it. This shows how compromised people often use spiritual language to mask selfish motives. His pattern of small thefts had already corrupted his heart, making him see even beautiful acts of worship as missed opportunities for personal gain.

Point 2: The Decision to Betray (Matthew 26:14-16) "Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?' So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over."

Commentary: Notice that Judas initiated this transaction—he went to the religious leaders, not the other way around. This wasn't a moment of weakness where he was caught off guard; it was a calculated decision by someone whose heart had already been compromised through smaller compromises. The "thirty pieces of silver" wasn't the cause of his betrayal—it was simply the price tag on a heart already sold to greed.

Point 3: The Moment of Betrayal (Matthew 26:47-50) "While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: 'The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.' Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, 'Greetings, Rabbi!' and kissed him. Jesus replied, 'Do what you came for, friend.'"

Commentary: The kiss of betrayal represents the ultimate perversion of love and loyalty. Judas used the most intimate greeting between teacher and student to identify Jesus for arrest. This wasn't just betrayal—it was betrayal disguised as affection. Notice Jesus still calls him "friend," showing that even in this moment, grace was available if Judas would repent.

Point 4: The Warning About Gradual Corruption (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. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

Commentary: Paul's warning perfectly describes Judas's downfall. The "love of money" didn't destroy Judas in one dramatic moment—it was a gradual process of wandering from faith through small compromises. The phrase "pierced themselves with many griefs" captures the self-inflicted nature of this spiritual destruction. Judas's story illustrates how the pursuit of material gain can slowly erode our spiritual foundation until we're capable of betraying even our closest relationships.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 8)

Session 8: Ananias and Sapphira "The Deadly Deception of False Giving"- Acts 5:1-11; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 6:1-4
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To understand the importance of integrity in our worship and giving, recognizing that God values the heart behind our actions more than the actions themselves.

Acts 5:1-11

Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.

3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”

5 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6 Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.

7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, “Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?”

“Yes,” she said, “that is the price.”

9 Peter said to her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.”

10 At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.

2 Corinthians 9:7

7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Matthew 6:1-4

7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Have you ever tried to look more generous or spiritual than you actually felt? What was the situation and how did it make you feel?

What's the difference between giving a gift because you want to versus giving because you feel you have to? How does motivation change the experience?

OVERVIEW

The story of Ananias and Sapphira represents one of the most shocking episodes in the early church, where a couple's deception about their giving resulted in immediate divine judgment. Following the generous example of Barnabas, who sold property and gave all the proceeds to the apostles, this couple sold their property but secretly kept back part of the money while claiming they had given everything. Their sin wasn't in keeping some of the money—it was in lying about it to appear more generous than they actually were.

As A.W. Tozer observed: "The gift without the giver is bare; who gives himself with his alms feeds three—himself, his hungering neighbor, and Me." This passage reveals that God is far more concerned with the authenticity of our hearts than the size of our offerings. Ananias and Sapphira's tragic end serves as a sobering reminder that religious performance without genuine devotion is not just worthless—it can be dangerous.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

The Difficult Teaching: Many people assume that giving money to God's work is always good, regardless of the motivation, but this passage reveals that giving with deceptive or prideful motives can actually be a serious sin that God takes very seriously.

The shocking truth about Ananias and Sapphira is that their sin wasn't greed—it was spiritual pride disguised as generosity. They wanted the recognition and status that came with sacrificial giving without actually making the sacrifice. Peter makes clear that they were under no obligation to sell their property or give any specific amount (Acts 5:4). Their sin was lying to the Holy Spirit by pretending to be more generous than they actually were. This teaches us that God would rather we give nothing than give with deceptive motives. The immediate divine judgment wasn't just about their lie—it was about protecting the integrity of the early church from the poison of religious pretense. This passage forces us to examine not just what we give, but why we give it and whether our giving matches our public claims about our spiritual commitment.

CULTURE CONNECTION

In our social media culture where charitable giving is often publicized and celebrated, we face constant pressure to appear more generous and spiritual than we actually are. From posting about donations on social platforms to claiming tax deductions for charitable giving that inflate our actual generosity, the temptation to enhance our spiritual image through giving is everywhere. The "prosperity gospel" movement has created additional pressure by suggesting that generous giving guarantees financial blessings, leading people to give with manipulative rather than genuine motives. This passage challenges us to examine whether our giving is motivated by love for God and others or by desire for recognition, tax benefits, or attempts to manipulate God's blessing. In a culture that often treats giving as a transaction or performance, God calls us to authentic generosity that flows from grateful hearts rather than calculated strategy.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The story of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1–11) starkly reveals the danger of pretending to be more generous or spiritual than we truly are. Their attempt to deceive the early church by claiming to give all the proceeds from a land sale—while secretly withholding part—was not just a financial lie but a spiritual one. They sought the reputation of radical generosity without the reality, aiming for recognition rather than authentic worship.

Dangers and Consequences of False Giving

Spiritual Consequences: Their deception was seen as lying not just to people, but to God Himself. Scripture records that both Ananias and Sapphira faced immediate and severe judgment, demonstrating how seriously God views hypocrisy and dishonesty in matters of faith.
Separation from God: Falsehood creates a barrier between us and God, undermining genuine relationship and intimacy. Pretending to be more spiritual than we are leads to spiritual deadness and alienation.
Damage to Community Trust: Their actions threatened the trust and unity of the early Christian community. When authenticity is replaced by image management, it breeds suspicion and erodes the foundation of fellowship and mutual support.
Loss of Integrity: Integrity is foundational to Christian character. When believers act with hidden motives or for the sake of appearance, it damages not only their own witness but also the credibility of the church as a whole.

Cultivating Integrity in a Culture Obsessed with Appearances

Practice Truthfulness: Commit to honesty in all aspects of worship, giving, and service. Ephesians 4:25 urges believers to “put away falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor,” emphasizing the importance of transparency and sincerity.
Examine Motives: Regularly ask God to search your heart for hidden motives (Psalm 139:23–24). Are you giving, serving, or worshiping for God’s glory, or for human approval?
Value Authenticity Over Recognition: Seek God’s approval above all. Remember that “praise is not from men but from God” (Romans 2:29). True spirituality is “of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter.”
Encourage Vulnerability: Foster a church culture where it’s safe to be honest about struggles, doubts, and limitations. This openness builds real community and helps others resist the pressure to perform.
Guard Against Manipulation: Avoid using giving or service as a means to gain influence, recognition, or control within the church. Generosity should flow from love and gratitude, not from a desire for status or leverage.
Align Actions with Heart: Let your external acts of worship and generosity reflect your inner devotion to God, not a desire to look good before others.

In a world that often values image over substance, Ananias and Sapphira’s story calls us to radical integrity—ensuring our hearts are truly aligned with God, and that our worship and service are genuine, not driven by a need for approval or recognition.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The story of Ananias and Sapphira serves as one of Scripture's most severe warnings about the danger of religious pretense, particularly in the area of giving. Their tragic end wasn't about the money they kept—it was about the lie they told and the spiritual pride that motivated it. They wanted the recognition that comes with sacrificial giving without actually making the sacrifice. This reveals a fundamental truth about worship: God is far more concerned with the authenticity of our hearts than the size of our offerings or the impression we make on others.

God's plan for giving has always been about relationship, not transaction. From the widow's mite to the Macedonian churches' generous poverty, Scripture consistently shows that God values the heart behind the gift more than the gift itself. The early church's practice of sharing possessions wasn't about communalism—it was about community, where people gave freely out of love for God and each other. Ananias and Sapphira corrupted this beautiful expression of unity by turning it into a performance for personal recognition. Their judgment serves as a warning to all of us who might be tempted to use our giving as a way to enhance our spiritual reputation rather than express our genuine love for God. The good news is that when our giving flows from grateful hearts rather than prideful motives, it becomes a source of joy both for us and for God, who loves cheerful givers and delights in authentic worship that reflects the true condition of our hearts.

Discussion Questions:

How do we guard against giving for the wrong reasons?

What does authentic generosity look like in our daily lives?

How can we encourage genuine worship rather than performance in our church?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Deceptive Conspiracy (Acts 5:1-2) "Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife's full knowledge, he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet."

Commentary: This wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision but a calculated deception planned by both husband and wife. They saw Barnabas receive recognition for his sacrificial giving and wanted the same recognition without the same sacrifice. The phrase "with his wife's full knowledge" shows this was a conspiracy to deceive the church about their level of generosity. Their sin began with comparing themselves to others and wanting undeserved recognition.

Point 2: The Confrontation and First Death (Acts 5:3-6) "Then Peter said, 'Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.' When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died."

Commentary: Peter's confrontation reveals several crucial truths: First, this deception was inspired by Satan, showing how religious pride can open us to demonic influence. Second, they were under no obligation to give any specific amount—their sin was the lie, not the amount kept. Third, lying to the church is actually lying to God because the Holy Spirit indwells the community of believers. The immediate death serves as divine judgment against the poison of religious pretense.

Point 3: The Repeated Deception and Second Death (Acts 5:7-10) "About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. Peter said to her, 'Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?' 'Yes,' she said, 'that is the price.' Peter said to her, 'How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.' At that moment she fell down at his feet and died."

Commentary: Sapphira had the opportunity to tell the truth when Peter questioned her, but she chose to continue the deception. Her response, "Yes, that is the price," shows she was fully committed to the lie. The phrase "test the Spirit of the Lord" reveals they were essentially challenging God's omniscience, assuming they could deceive Him. The judgment on both demonstrates that God takes the integrity of worship seriously and will not allow His church to be corrupted by religious pretense.

Point 4: The Proper Heart for Giving (2 Corinthians 9:7) "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Commentary: Paul's instruction provides the positive counterpoint to Ananias and Sapphira's negative example. True giving flows from personal decision ("decided in your heart"), not external pressure or the desire to impress others. The word "cheerful" doesn't just mean happy—it means generous, voluntary, and joyful. God values the heart attitude behind our giving more than the amount given. This verse shows that giving should be an expression of our love relationship with God, not a performance for others' approval.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 9)

Session 9: Demas "When the World's Appeal Becomes Too Strong"- 2 Timothy 4:10; Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24; 1 John 2:15-17
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To recognize the ongoing tension between following Christ and worldly attractions, and to find strength for faithful perseverance in ministry and service.

2 Timothy 4:10

10 for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.

Colossians 4:14

14 Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings.

Philemon 1:24

24 And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my fellow workers.

1 John 2:15-17

15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

What's something you were once really excited about but gradually lost interest in over time? What caused your enthusiasm to fade?

Have you ever had to choose between something comfortable and easy versus something difficult but important? What did you choose and why?

OVERVIEW

The story of Demas represents one of the most heartbreaking examples of spiritual drift in the New Testament. Once counted among Paul's faithful co-workers alongside Luke and others, Demas gradually allowed the attractions of the world to pull him away from ministry. Paul's brief but poignant statement—"Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me"—captures the tragedy of someone who started well but couldn't sustain the cost of discipleship when worldly alternatives seemed more appealing.

As Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote: "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. It may be a death like that of the first disciples who had to leave home and work to follow him, or it may be a death like Luther's, who had to leave the monastery and go out into the world. But it is the same death every time—death in Jesus Christ, the death of the old man at his call." Demas's story reminds us that following Christ requires ongoing surrender, not just an initial decision, and that the world's appeal can gradually erode even the most promising spiritual commitments.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

The Difficult Teaching: Many people believe that once someone is genuinely committed to following Christ, they'll naturally continue in that commitment, but Demas's story reveals that even mature believers who have served faithfully can gradually drift away when the world's appeal becomes stronger than their love for Christ.

What makes Demas's departure so shocking is that he wasn't a new convert or someone on the periphery of ministry—he was one of Paul's trusted co-workers, mentioned alongside Luke the physician and other faithful servants. His drift wasn't sudden but gradual, described as loving "this present world." The word "loved" suggests this wasn't a momentary attraction but a growing affection that eventually overpowered his commitment to Christ and Paul's ministry. This teaches us that spiritual maturity doesn't make us immune to worldly temptation—in fact, the longer we serve, the more we may become aware of what we've sacrificed for the gospel. Demas's story warns us that faithfulness requires constant vigilance and renewed commitment, not just an initial decision. The most dangerous spiritual drift often happens so gradually that we don't realize we're moving away from Christ until we've already made choices that compromise our calling.

CULTURE CONNECTION

Influence on Life Today: In our prosperity-driven culture where success is measured by wealth, comfort, and social status, every believer faces the same temptation that overcame Demas. The pressure to pursue financial security, career advancement, comfortable retirement, and social acceptance can gradually erode our commitment to costly discipleship. Social media amplifies this by constantly showing us what we're "missing" compared to others who seem to have chosen easier paths. Many believers start strong in their faith but gradually reduce their church involvement, ministry commitments, and spiritual disciplines as worldly responsibilities and attractions increase. This passage challenges us to examine whether our love for Christ is growing stronger or whether the world's appeal is gradually winning our hearts. The question isn't whether we'll face this tension, but whether we'll recognize it and choose faithfulness when the world's offerings seem more attractive than the cost of following Jesus.

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The story of Demas is a sobering reminder of the subtle and gradual pull of the world—even for those who once served faithfully alongside spiritual leaders. Though Demas is mentioned only a few times in the New Testament, his spiritual journey offers important lessons for every believer.

What We Learn from Demas

1. The Gradual Drift

Early Faithfulness: Demas began well. He is first mentioned as a “fellow worker” with Paul (Philemon 1:24; Colossians 4:14), serving alongside spiritual giants like Luke.
The Slow Pull: By the end of Paul’s life, however, Paul writes with sadness: “Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica” (2 Timothy 4:10). Demas’s departure was not sudden; it was the result of a gradual shift in affection—from Christ to the world.
Subtlety of Worldliness: Demas’s story shows that the allure of comfort, security, or worldly pleasure can quietly and steadily erode spiritual passion—even in those who once served faithfully.

2. A Warning Against Loving the World

Divided Affection: Jesus warned, “No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Demas’s love for the world eventually eclipsed his love for Christ.
Spiritual Desertion: The danger is not just in outward sin, but in a heart that gradually grows cold, distracted, or enamored with what the world offers—leading to spiritual desertion and loss of purpose.
A Call to Vigilance: Demas’s story warns us that no one is immune. Even those deeply involved in ministry can drift if they do not guard their hearts and affections.

Staying Spiritually Grounded in a Distracting World

1. Regular Heart Checks

Frequently ask: What do I love most? Where do I find my security, joy, and satisfaction? Invite God to reveal any growing attachment to worldly things (1 John 2:15–17).

2. Stay Rooted in God’s Word

Let Scripture shape your values and desires, reminding you of what is truly lasting and valuable (Psalm 119:11; Romans 12:2).

3. Cultivate Spiritual Disciplines

Maintain habits of prayer, worship, and fellowship. These practices keep your heart sensitive to God and less susceptible to worldly distractions.

4. Pursue Community and Accountability

Surround yourself with believers who will encourage you, pray for you, and lovingly challenge you if you begin to drift.

5. Practice Generosity and Service

Actively invest your time, resources, and talents in God’s kingdom. Serving others shifts your focus from self-gratification to God’s purposes.

6. Set Your Mind on Eternity

Regularly reflect on the temporary nature of this world and the surpassing worth of knowing Christ (Philippians 3:7–8; Colossians 3:1–4).

Demas’s life is a gentle but urgent warning: the world’s pull is real, gradual, and dangerous—even for the faithful. By staying vigilant, rooted in Christ, and connected to spiritual community, we can resist the subtle drift and remain steadfast, loving Christ above all else—no matter how enticing the world may seem.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The tragedy of Demas lies not in a dramatic moral failure but in a gradual shift of affections that led him to abandon his calling for worldly attractions. His story serves as a sobering reminder that spiritual maturity and faithful service don't guarantee continued faithfulness—they require ongoing vigilance and renewed commitment. The world's appeal is particularly dangerous because it doesn't usually come as obvious temptation but as seemingly reasonable alternatives to the cost of discipleship. Better job opportunities, more comfortable living situations, social acceptance, and financial security can all gradually erode our commitment to costly obedience when they become more attractive than our love for Christ.

God's plan for our lives includes both the calling to follow Jesus and the ongoing tension with worldly attractions that make that calling difficult. The Christian life isn't about eliminating this tension but about consistently choosing Christ despite the appeal of alternatives. Demas's story warns us that this choice isn't made once but repeatedly, as the world continually offers us seemingly better options than costly discipleship. The good news is that unlike Demas, we don't have to make this choice alone—the same Holy Spirit who calls us to follow Christ also provides the strength to persevere when the world's appeal becomes strong. The question each of us must regularly ask is not whether we'll face this tension, but whether our love for Christ is growing stronger than our love for the world. Those who continue to choose faithfulness despite worldly attractions discover that what God offers—eternal purpose, genuine community, and lasting satisfaction—far exceeds anything the world can provide, even when that truth isn't immediately apparent in our circumstances.

Discussion Questions:

What worldly attractions do we find most appealing as we age?

How do we maintain our passion for service when the world offers comfort?

What helps us persevere when ministry becomes difficult or unrewarding?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Trusted Co-worker (Colossians 4:14; Philemon 1:24) "Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings" (Colossians 4:14). "Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. And so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas and Luke, my co-workers" (Philemon 1:24).

Commentary: These earlier references show Demas as one of Paul's valued ministry partners, mentioned alongside Luke and other faithful servants. The fact that Paul calls him a "co-worker" indicates significant ministry involvement and trust. This makes his later departure so heartbreaking—he wasn't a casual follower but someone who had been deeply involved in gospel ministry. His inclusion in these greetings shows he was once considered reliable and committed to the work.

Point 2: The Heartbreaking Departure (2 Timothy 4:10) "For Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica."

Commentary: Paul's words carry deep personal pain—this wasn't just losing a ministry partner but being abandoned by someone he trusted. The phrase "loved this world" suggests Demas's affections gradually shifted from eternal values to temporal ones. "Deserted" is a strong word indicating abandonment in a time of need. Thessalonica was a prosperous commercial city, suggesting Demas may have been drawn by business opportunities or comfortable living that ministry couldn't provide. This wasn't a sudden fall but a gradual drift toward worldly values.

Point 3: The Pattern of Worldly Love (1 John 2:15-16) "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world."

Commentary: John's warning explains what happened to Demas—love for the world displaced love for the Father. The three categories John mentions (lust of flesh, lust of eyes, pride of life) represent all worldly attractions: physical desires, material possessions, and social status. When these become more appealing than following Christ, they gradually erode our spiritual commitment. Love is not neutral—we're always loving something more than something else, and what we love most will ultimately determine our choices.

Point 4: The Temporary Nature of Worldly Appeal (1 John 2:17) "The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever."

Commentary: John provides the eternal perspective that Demas lost sight of—everything the world offers is temporary, while obedience to God has eternal significance. Whatever attracted Demas to leave ministry was ultimately passing away, while the gospel work he abandoned had eternal value. This verse reminds us that worldly attractions promise what they cannot deliver—lasting satisfaction and security. Only those who persist in doing God's will experience the permanence and fulfillment that the world falsely promises.

— (Printable Bookmark for Session 10)

Session 10: Diotrephes "The Poison of Pride in Leadership"- 3 John 9-10; 1 Peter 5:1-4; Mark 10:42-44
— Printable Download

Purpose Statement: To understand the destructive nature of prideful leadership and to encourage humble service that builds up the church community.

3 John 9-10

9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. 10 So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.

1 Peter 5:1-4

1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

Mark 10:42-44

42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.

ICE-BREAKER QUESTIONS

Have you ever been in a group where someone insisted on being in charge and controlling everything? How did it affect the group's atmosphere and effectiveness?

What's the difference between a leader who serves others and a leader who expects others to serve them? Can you think of examples of each?

OVERVIEW

The brief but powerful portrait of Diotrephes in 3 John reveals one of the most destructive forces in church life: prideful leadership that seeks control rather than service. This church leader's love of prominence led him to reject apostolic authority, refuse Christian hospitality, and even expel faithful believers from the church. His story serves as a warning about how pride can corrupt even those in positions of spiritual leadership, turning shepherds into tyrants who harm the very people they're called to serve.

As Andrew Murray wrote: "Pride must die in you, or nothing of heaven can live in you. Under the banner of the truth, in the very midst of the worship of God, pride can live and breathe and exercise its malignant power." Diotrephes demonstrates how religious position can become a platform for pride rather than service, and how the desire for preeminence can poison the unity and hospitality that should characterize Christian community.

THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Many people assume that being in church leadership naturally produces humility and Christ-likeness, but Diotrephes's story reveals that religious authority can actually amplify pride and create opportunities for spiritual abuse when leaders love prominence more than they love serving others.

What makes Diotrephes particularly dangerous is that he wasn't opposing the gospel directly—he was using his position of spiritual authority to control and exclude others. His pride manifested in several ways: he rejected apostolic letters (probably from John), refused to welcome traveling ministers, and expelled church members who showed hospitality to Christian workers. This wasn't theological disagreement but a power struggle where Diotrephes wanted to be the sole authority in his church. The phrase "loves to be first" reveals the root of his problem—he used his spiritual position to feed his ego rather than serve God's people. This teaches us that the closer we get to spiritual authority, the more vigilant we must be against pride, because religious pride is often the most deceptive and destructive form of pride. When leaders begin to see their position as a platform for personal prominence rather than an opportunity for service, they become dangerous to the very people they're supposed to protect and nurture.

CULTURE CONNECTION

Influence on Life Today: In our celebrity-driven culture where platform and influence are highly valued, the temptation to use spiritual leadership for personal prominence is stronger than ever. Social media amplifies this by creating opportunities for church leaders to build personal brands and seek followers rather than serve faithfully in local contexts. The "celebrity pastor" phenomenon, where spiritual leaders become famous for their charisma rather than their character, reflects the same pride that corrupted Diotrephes. Additionally, our culture's emphasis on strong leadership and decisive authority can be misapplied in church settings, leading to controlling rather than serving leadership styles. This passage challenges both leaders and followers to examine whether spiritual authority is being used to serve others or to build personal kingdoms. The question isn't whether we'll have influence, but whether we'll use it like Diotrephes (for personal prominence) or like Jesus (for sacrificial service).

IMPACT OF OUR CHOICES:

The example of Diotrephes in 3 John exposes the deeply destructive impact of prideful leadership, where the pursuit of control, recognition, and personal agenda overshadows Christlike humility and service.

How Diotrephes’ Prideful Leadership Caused Harm

Desire for Preeminence: Diotrephes “loves to be first” (3 John 1:9), revealing a craving for status and authority above others. This self-centeredness led him to reject apostolic authority and prioritize his own agenda over the mission and unity of the church.
Rejection of Accountability: He refused to acknowledge the authority of the apostle John and dismissed those who represented apostolic teaching, acting as a “lone wolf” without accountability. This undermined spiritual oversight and set a dangerous precedent.
Division and Exclusion: Diotrephes not only withheld hospitality from traveling believers but also expelled church members who welcomed them, creating division and fear within the community
Malicious Speech: He spread gossip and slander about John and others, further fracturing relationships and eroding trust

How Pride Can Show Up in Our Own Leadership

Seeking Recognition Over Service: Prioritizing personal achievement, influence, or reputation rather than the well-being of those we lead
Resisting Accountability: Avoiding correction or input from others, believing our way is best, or refusing to submit to spiritual or organizational oversight.
Controlling or Excluding Others: Shutting out those who disagree, hoarding authority, or failing to empower and include others in decision-making.
Gossip or Slander: Using words to tear down others, protect our position, or manipulate perceptions.

Pursuing Servant Leadership That Honors God

Embrace Humility: Follow Christ’s example (Matthew 20:26–28), recognizing that true greatness is found in serving others, not being served
Seek Accountability: Invite feedback, submit to godly authority, and remain open to correction. Healthy leadership is transparent and teachable
Build Up Others: Use your influence to encourage, empower, and include others, fostering unity and collaboration rather than competition or exclusion
Practice Hospitality and Generosity: Welcome and support others, especially those outside your immediate circle or who bring different perspectives
Guard Against Self-Promotion: Regularly examine your motives—are you seeking God’s glory or your own advancement?
Model Integrity and Love: Let your leadership be marked by truthfulness, kindness, and a commitment to the well-being of the whole community.

TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The story of Diotrephes serves as one of Scripture's clearest warnings about the corruption of spiritual leadership by pride. His desire to be first transformed him from a shepherd into a tyrant who harmed the very people he was supposed to serve. The tragedy isn't just that he fell into pride—it's that his pride infected the entire church community, creating division, suspicion, and spiritual abuse where there should have been unity, trust, and mutual care. His story reminds us that spiritual authority is one of the most dangerous places for pride to take root because it affects not just the leader but everyone under their influence.

God's design for spiritual leadership has always been servant leadership, modeled perfectly by Jesus who came not to be served but to serve. The church is not a kingdom to be ruled but a family to be nurtured, not a platform for personal prominence but a place for sacrificial service. When leaders begin to love being first more than they love serving others, they cease to be true spiritual leaders and become obstacles to the very work they claim to represent. The good news is that God's grace can transform even the most pride-filled hearts, and His Spirit can produce the humility necessary for authentic spiritual leadership. The question every leader must regularly ask is not whether they have authority, but whether they're using that authority to serve others or to serve themselves. Those who choose the path of humble service discover that true spiritual influence comes not from demanding recognition but from consistently demonstrating Christ's love through sacrificial care for His people. The greatest leaders in God's kingdom are those who, like Jesus, consider others more important than themselves and use their influence to lift others up rather than to elevate themselves.

Discussion Questions:

How do we exercise leadership (formal or informal) in humble ways?

What are the signs of pride creeping into our service?

How can we encourage and support good leadership in our church?

SEEDS FOR THOUGHT

Point 1: The Rejection of Apostolic Authority (3 John 9a) "I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us."

Commentary: John's letter was apparently rejected by Diotrephes, showing his refusal to submit to apostolic authority. The phrase "loves to be first" (philoproteuo) appears only here in the New Testament and captures the essence of prideful ambition—the desire for preeminence and control. This wasn't about theological disagreement but about authority and recognition. Diotrephes saw John's influence as a threat to his own position and chose to reject apostolic guidance rather than submit to it. This reveals how pride makes us see other leaders as competitors rather than collaborators.

Point 2: The Pattern of Malicious Control (3 John 9b-10) "So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church."

Commentary: John reveals a pattern of destructive behavior: spreading malicious gossip, refusing hospitality to traveling ministers, preventing others from showing hospitality, and excommunicating faithful believers. This shows how pride escalates from personal ambition to systemic abuse. Diotrephes wasn't content with just rejecting John's authority—he actively worked to poison others' attitudes and control every aspect of church life. The phrase "puts them out of the church" shows he was willing to divide the church to maintain his control.

Point 3: The Contrast of Servant Leadership (Mark 10:42-44) "Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.'"

Commentary: Jesus explicitly contrasts worldly leadership (lording over others) with Kingdom leadership (serving others). Diotrephes exemplified the worldly model—using his position to control and dominate rather than serve. The word "lord it over" describes exactly what Diotrephes was doing. Jesus teaches that true greatness in His kingdom comes through service, not control. This passage shows that Christian leadership should be the opposite of what Diotrephes practiced.

Point 4: The Model of Humble Shepherding (1 Peter 5:1-3) "To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ's sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

Commentary: Peter provides the positive model that contrasts with Diotrephes's negative example. Notice the key elements: willingness (not coercion), service (not personal gain), and example (not domination). The phrase "not lording it over" directly addresses the Diotrephes problem. True spiritual leadership serves "God's flock," remembering that the sheep belong to God, not to the shepherd. Leaders are stewards, not owners, and their goal is to nurture and protect, not control and use.

Sessions 1-6: Focus on individual choices and their community impact Sessions 7-10: Focus on the gradual drift from faithfulness and its consequences

This ten-session series provides a look at how individual choices affect both personal spiritual health and community well-being. Each character serves as both warning and encouragement, pointing us toward the path of faithful Christian living.

Series Application:

Each session should conclude with:

Personal Reflection: How does this character's story speak to my own life?
Community Application: How can we as a church body guard against these dangers?
Prayer Focus: Seeking God's strength to walk faithfully and avoid these pitfalls.
Encouragement: Remembering that God's grace is sufficient for our weaknesses and His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Closing Thought:

These cautionary tales remind us that we are all capable of making choices that harm ourselves and others. Yet they also point us to the hope we have in Christ, who provides the wisdom, strength, and grace we need to walk faithfully. As we study these lives, may we be encouraged to pursue righteousness, seek wise counsel, and trust in God's unfailing love.