Lesson Three

The Dangers of Materialism

Reading Assignment: Chapter 4

Read the following passages of Scripture and discuss them in light of the following statement: Materialism consists of the two things that God hates most—idolatry and adultery. (Depending on the number of people in the class, you can divide into groups of three or more, assigning each group a passage to study for ten to twelve minutes before reporting their answers back to the class. The reports should be limited to five minutes each.)

1. Isaiah 57:3-9; Jeremiah 3:1-10; Ezekiel 16:1-48. The Old Testament prophets were quick to point out Israel’s unfaithfulness, which was demonstrated by their turning to idols. In what ways have possessions become idols or “mistresses” to us today?

2. Ecclesiastes 2:1-11. Emptiness and meaninglessness are the fruit of unbridled materialism. What are some examples in our society of the emptiness produced by excessive greed? If possible, identify pictures in magazines that illustrate a loss of meaning. (Hint: The more “sophisticated” the magazine, the more ads you’ll find for empty luxuries, shown by models with jaded expressions.) How was Solomon uniquely qualified to draw conclusions about materialism?

3. 1 Timothy 6:9-10. What does this passage say about a life devoted to money and possessions? What does it say about the effects of such a life on our faith in God?

4. Read and discuss the following quotes by five wealthy men. What strikes you about these statements?

John D. Rockefeller: “I have made many millions, but they have brought me no happiness.”

W. H. Vanderbilt: “The care of $200 million is enough to kill anyone. There is no pleasure in it.”

John Jacob Astor: “I am the most miserable man on earth.”

Henry Ford: “I was happier when doing a mechanic’s job.”

Andrew Carnegie: “Millionaires seldom smile.”

5. Isaiah 10:1-3; Jeremiah 5:27-28; 15:13; Hosea 12:8; Amos 5:11; Micah 6:12. Why is the righteous rich man such a rare phenomenon?

6. List adjectives or phrases to complete the following sentence: Materialism is_________________________________________________. (Ask each class member to contribute at least one word or phrase.)

PRAYER: Lord, grant us eyes to see the lure of money and possessions for what it really is—and to desire you more than ever.