Jesus’ parable about economic materialism
POPULARITY
Categories
Some people think being rich means owning a lot of things—when in reality, being “rich” often means a lot of things owning you. The signs of wealth are all around us: luxury cars, upscale neighborhoods, designer clothes, vacation homes. But do possessions really make people rich in a way that matters?It's hard to keep a Christ-centered perspective on wealth when our culture constantly pressures us to want more, buy more, and accumulate more. But this isn't a new problem. Jesus warned in Luke 12:15:“Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”Money and possessions aren't inherently bad, but they often tempt us toward greed, selfishness, and discontent. We need money to live, but when money becomes the main thing, it becomes a dangerous master.When Possessions Begin to Possess YouJesus doesn't just warn against greed—He offers us the key to true life: don't make your existence all about “the abundance of possessions,” or your possessions will start to possess you. Proverbs 23:4–5 echoes this wisdom:“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone…”Material things can never give your heart what it truly craves.In Luke 12, Jesus tells the story of a wealthy man who tears down his barns to build bigger ones, dreaming of a long, comfortable retirement. But before he can enjoy it, God says:“You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?”Jesus concludes, “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”The man's tragedy wasn't just that his life ended suddenly—it was that he invested his soul in temporary abundance instead of eternal riches.Eternity Written on Our HeartsEcclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that God has “set eternity in the human heart.” Deep down, we long for meaning, purpose, and eternal life—not just more stuff. C. S. Lewis put it well:“Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in': aim at Earth and you get neither.”True abundance is found in knowing God, walking with Him, and letting His love overflow into the way we love others.Jesus said in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” And in John 15:5, He promised, “Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit.”The abundant life isn't about bigger barns or fuller closets—it's about abiding in Christ. When we do, our lives bear fruit that blesses others and glorifies God.Where Is Your Treasure?So ask yourself: What are you depending on to give your life meaning? Could some of those things be quietly taking God's place in your heart?Pray for the Lord to uproot those desires and refocus your attention on Him. Because true wealth isn't found in what you own—it's found in who owns you.That's why we created Rich Toward God—a 4-week study on the Parable of the Rich Fool. It unpacks what it means to live open-handed with your finances, showing how biblical wisdom doesn't just transform your bank account—it transforms your heart.You can order your copy—or place a bulk order for your group—by visiting FaithFi.com and clicking “Shop.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm unsure how to handle requests for financial help from my husband's son and his family. They face ongoing money struggles and sometimes ask us for assistance, but I'm concerned that giving could be enabling poor decisions, like spending on things that don't reflect our values. How can we approach this situation with wisdom and biblical discernment?I already have a financial advisor and some investments in place, but I want to make sure my money is supporting companies that align with my faith. Is there a tool or resource that can help me evaluate whether my investments are consistent with biblical values?I have a will, and all my investments already list beneficiaries. My advisor says a trust isn't necessary, but my children believe it's the best way to avoid probate. Do I really need a trust? Also, since my husband passed away, should I update my will and the deed to my home?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)List of Faith-Based Investment FundsWise Women Managing Money: Expert Advice on Debt, Wealth, Budgeting, and More by Miriam Neff and Valerie Neff Hogan, J.D.Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
Businessman and author T. Harv Eker once wrote, “Financial freedom is the ability to live the lifestyle you desire without having to work or rely on anyone else for money.”It's tempting to think that financial independence is the ultimate goal of life—but what does the Bible say? God's Word points us toward a far better kind of freedom.In recent years, financial independence has become a cultural ideal. People long to be self-sufficient, debt-free, and free to pursue their passions. While these desires can be wise, they also carry a subtle danger: believing we don't need anyone—including God.The Warning of the Rich FoolThis temptation isn't new. In Luke 12, Jesus told a parable about a wealthy man who thought he had “made it”:“I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and goods. And I will say to my soul, ‘You have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, and be merry.'”But God's response was sobering:“Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?”The man's sin wasn't wealth itself—it was trusting in wealth instead of God. His independence became his idol. In contrast, Proverbs 30 records a prayer from Agur:“Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?' or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.”Agur understood the heart of stewardship: daily dependence on God. Too little can lead to desperation; too much can lead to pride. The goal isn't independence, but faithful reliance on the Lord.Three Questions to Evaluate Your GoalsAs you think about your own financial journey, consider these questions:Am I placing my trust in money? Retirement savings and emergency funds are wise, but security must come from God, not a balance sheet.Am I trying to eliminate work entirely? Work is part of God's good design. Even in retirement, we're called to meaningful contribution.Am I paying off debt just for myself? Debt-free living is good, but its ultimate purpose is to gain the freedom to serve, give, and advance God's Kingdom.So, is financial independence biblical? It depends.If independence means replacing God with money, then no.If independence means freedom for generosity, stewardship, and dependence on God, then yes—it reflects something greater than wealth: a life rich toward God.Scripture reminds us that “He richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17) and that “every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). But those gifts were never meant to replace the Giver.A Resource for Going DeeperIf you'd like to explore this more, check out our 4-Week study, Rich Toward God. This study walks through Jesus' Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12, helping you discover what truly drives your financial decisions and how to align your resources with God's Kingdom purposes.You can get your copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—by visiting FaithFi.com and clicking the Shop tab.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've had multiple jobs with 401(k) benefits over the years, but I've struggled to stay organized with my finances. How can I get a handle on everything, and would it be wise to work with a financial advisor?My 16-year-old daughter received a $200,000 settlement after being hit by a car. Once she turns 18, she'll gain full access to the money, and I'm very concerned she'll misuse it. What options do I have to protect her from receiving it all at once?I have an adult son with autism who is on the Florida Med Waiver, which limits him to $2,000 in his checking account. I'm worried about how he'll be provided for in the future. Is there a way to set aside money for his care without affecting his benefits?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Open Hands FinanceABLE National Resource CenterUnderstanding ABLE Accounts With Matt Syverson (Faith and Finance Episode)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
In Luke 12:13–21, Jesus is confronted with a request to settle a family inheritance dispute—but instead, He warns against the danger of greed and tells the parable of the rich fool. In this episode, we explore why covetousness is so destructive, what it means to be “rich toward God,” and how this teaching challenges our culture's obsession with possessions and security. Join us as we uncover timeless truths that redirect our hearts from storing up treasures on earth to investing in what matters eternally.
David Lowe continues our new series "Parables - What You May Have Missed" with a preach into the parable of "The Rich Fool" from Luke 12:16-21. This preach was recorded at our Putnoe Congregation on Sunday 7th September 2025.
We hope you enjoy today's Scripture reading and devotional aimed at motivating you to apply God's word while strengthening your heart and nurturing your soul. Today's Bible reading is Luke 12:13–21. To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional. ESV Bible narration read by Kristyn Getty. Follow us on social media to stay up to date: Instagram Facebook Twitter
Summer Parables: The Rich Fool w/Dr. Easley
At Freedom Fellowship we celebrated 18 years of God's faithfulness with baptisms and a message from Pastor Landon Churchill on Luke 12:13–21, “The Rich Fool.”
Pastor Travis reminds us of the dangers of covetousness and greed.
In Luke 12:13-21, Jesus warns that placing one's trust in riches rather than God leads to spiritual poverty before Him. I. A man demands Jesus's help regarding his family inheritance. A. A disturbance from the crowd (v. 13a) B. A desire to divide an inheritance (v. 13b) C. A clarification of Jesus's role (v. 14) II. Jesus addresses greed with a warning and a parable. A. A warning about greed and possessions (v. 15) B. A parable about mishandling earthly riches (vv. 16-20) C. A statement about spiritual poverty (v. 21)
Welcome to the Lakeshore Christian Midweek Podcast Series! We pray this will be an ongoing source of information, inspiration, fun and encouragement to all who join us! For more information, visit our links listed below.GiveWebsiteFacebookinstagramPrayer RequestContact
As much as we'd like to, none of us can see the future. But that hasn't stopped us from trying. Financial advisors attempt to forecast markets, meteorologists predict the weather, and sports fans try to call the final score.But when it comes to our finances—and our faith—there's an important distinction between wise planning and prideful presumption. So how do we tell the difference?The late civil rights leader Ralph Abernathy once said, “I don't know what the future may hold, but I know Who holds the future.” That's a comforting truth. God is sovereign—and that brings peace. But His sovereignty doesn't remove our responsibility to act wisely.Biblical Planning Is a Form of StewardshipScripture doesn't discourage planning—it commands it. In fact, wise planning is an essential part of faithful stewardship. God has entrusted us with time, money, relationships, and opportunities. Even though we can't predict tomorrow, we're still called to be faithful with today.Proverbs 6 paints a vivid picture of this wisdom:“Go to the ant… consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”The ant doesn't know what's ahead, but it prepares. Likewise, Jesus tells us in Matthew 25 to live in a state of readiness. “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” Though He's referring to His return, the principle holds: life is short, time is precious, and we are not in control.When Planning Becomes PresumptionPlanning becomes presumption when we assume control over outcomes that belong to God alone.To presume means “to assume something before you know the facts.” Biblically, presumption is often associated with pride—living as if we control the future and no longer need God's input. This attitude is precisely what Jesus warns against in the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12).After a man harvests a bumper crop, he says to himself:“I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones…You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”But God replies: “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.”The man's mistake wasn't in planning or saving—it was planning without God. He assumed he had time, control, and security apart from his Creator.James 4 echoes this same warning:“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city...' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”The Antidote: Humble, God-Dependent PlanningJames doesn't say “don't make plans.” Instead, he offers this wise alternative:“Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'”This kind of planning begins with God and continues with Him. It's rooted in trust, not control. We may set goals, but we do so with open hands, inviting God to direct our steps (Proverbs 16:9).This happens in the context of a relationship. As we grow in intimacy with the Lord—through prayer, Scripture, community, and obedience—our plans begin to reflect His heart and mission.If you're married, begin planning through prayer with your spouse. If you have kids, model this dependence on God in your family conversations. Let them see you trusting God not just for salvation, but also for your finances, schedule, and future.Wise counsel is key. Don't plan in isolation. Talk to a pastor, mentor, or a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) who can help you apply biblical wisdom to your financial decisions.So yes, make plans. Just don't leave God out of them. Hold your goals loosely. And remember: success isn't defined by your ability to predict or control the future—it's defined by your willingness to seek and trust the One who holds it.Want to explore this topic further? Dive deeper into Jesus' warning about prideful planning in our study on The Parable of the Rich Fool, titled Rich Toward God. It will challenge and encourage you to plan with humility and live with wisdom. Visit FaithFi.com and click “Shop” to get your copy today.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have $52,000 in student loans, but my $350 monthly payment hardly makes a dent. What can I do to pay it off faster?After my father-in-law passed, my mother-in-law was left with about $11,000 in credit card debt. Should she consolidate or try negotiating directly with the credit card companies? Also, how will this affect her Social Security benefits?Thanks for the guidance! I was able to retire at 54 with the help of a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA). Now, I spend my time volunteering with Eight Days of Hope.If I make a Qualified Charitable Distribution from my IRA, can I still deduct that amount on my income taxes?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Credit CounselorsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
Luke 12:13-21
Stories have a way of sticking with us. As a master teacher and storyteller, Jesus didn't just spin tales, He told parables: short, simple stories that invited listeners into deeper truth.This summer, we're diving into the parables of Jesus. Stories about seeds and soil, lost coins and prodigal sons, hidden treasures and unexpected guests. These are more than just ancient tales; they are windows into the heart of God and mirrors that help us reflect his image and love more clearly.Sermon by Pastor Libby Catuara
Series: N/AService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Nic Speegle
"The Parable Of The Rich Fool" “I have now disposed of all my property to my family. There is one thing more I wish I could give them, and that is the Christian Religion. If they had that and I had not given them one shilling they would have been rich; and if they had not that and I had given them all the world, they would be poor.” ― Patrick Henry Luke 12:13-21 ESV Matthew 6:19-20 ESV 1 Timothy 6:9-10 ESV Proverbs 3:9-10 ESV 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 ESV Philippians 4:19 ESV
In the Parable of the Rich Fool from Luke 12:13-21, Jesus exposes the danger of living for self and trusting in riches. True life isn't found in possessions but in being “rich toward God.” We must guard our hearts, live with eternity in view, and use our resources to serve God and others rather than storing up treasures for ourselves. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.
Welcome! At Victory Church in Troy, PA living for Jesus is about is much more than getting ready for the last day of you life, it's about making the most of everyday of your life! God has prepared a future for you that is bigger, brighter, and better than you can even imagine! If you are new to Victory we just want to say, Welcome to the Family!Thanks for sharing your time with us. We promise to never waste it.Did you accept Jesus as Lord of your life? We'd LOVE to hear about it, click here! https://victoryconnect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/134006 Had a GREAT experience? CONNECT with Victory Church today!https://victoryconnect.churchcenter.com/people/forms/197253 email: info@voiceofvictory.comInstagram: @VCNowVictory Church is here for you.Your life matters to God and to us!#JESUS #HOPE #VICTORY #JESUSISCOMING
Building on the Parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus teaches that life is more than possessions and that anxiety over material needs is unnecessary for those who know God as Father. Just as He feeds the ravens and clothes the lilies, He will surely care for His children—so much so that He gave His only Son for them. Our work, then, is not merely for personal gain but a way God provides for others and us. Freed from the idolatry of wealth and the burden of anxiety, we can live as little children—trusting, serving, and seeking God's kingdom first—confident that our Father will provide all we need for body and soul.
Money isn't the real problem for most of us-greed is. Often disguised as “need” or the desire for just a little more, greed quietly drives our discontentment and keeps us chasing after more opportunities, possessions, and security. Jesus' teaching challenges us to recognize how our subtle cravings for ‘more' shape our lives. The Parable of the Rich Fool, Luke 12:13-21
• Pastor Karyn's message for: Sun, Aug 3 2025• Luke 12:13-21 (The parable of the rich fool)• Revised Common Lectionary: Year C• From First Lutheran Church in Onalaska, WI• Support this ministry at 1stlu.org/give• Join us! 1stlu.org/worship
Our Full Baptismal Inheritance | Luke 12:13–21 How much is enough? That's the question that drives both the man in the crowd and the parable Jesus tells. Key Takeaways: We're tempted to believe the lie that more is always better—more stuff, more security, more control. But Jesus confronts this false security with the story of a rich man who builds bigger barns yet dies before enjoying them. The problem isn't wealth itself—it's when we worship it. Earthly treasures fade, but Christ gives us a better inheritance: His righteousness, His forgiveness, and His eternal life. Sealed in baptism, fed in His Supper, and grounded in His Word, this is the treasure that will not perish. Reflect on what truly endures. Share your thoughts in the comments and help spread the Gospel by sharing this video. ✝️ Worship with Us at Trinity – Sheboygan, WI Sundays – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Mondays – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org
Our Full Baptismal Inheritance | Luke 12:13–21 How much is enough? That's the question that drives both the man in the crowd and the parable Jesus tells. Key Takeaways: We're tempted to believe the lie that more is always better—more stuff, more security, more control. But Jesus confronts this false security with the story of a rich man who builds bigger barns yet dies before enjoying them. The problem isn't wealth itself—it's when we worship it. Earthly treasures fade, but Christ gives us a better inheritance: His righteousness, His forgiveness, and His eternal life. Sealed in baptism, fed in His Supper, and grounded in His Word, this is the treasure that will not perish. Reflect on what truly endures. Share your thoughts in the comments and help spread the Gospel by sharing this video. ✝️ Worship with Us at Trinity – Sheboygan, WI Sundays – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Mondays – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org
This is Wade's sermon at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, WI for Pentecost 8C. The lessons are: Ecclesiastes 1:1-2,12–14; 2:18-26; Colossians 3:1-11; Luke 12:13-21. Wade is serving as the vacancy pastor at Resurrection. We'd love to have you join us for a Sunday service sometime at 9am. Ss always, if you are enjoying the show, please subscribe, rate, and review us on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, Spotify, or TuneIn Radio. You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. And, of course, share us with a friend or two! If you'd like to contact us we can be reached at podcast@LetTheBirdFly.com, or visit our website at www.LetTheBirdFly.com. Thanks for listening!
Friends of the Rosary,Through the parable of the Rich Fool, Christ Jesus in today's Gospel (St. Luke 12:13-21) teaches us to avoid all greed, as “one's life does not consist of possessions.”The passage tells of a wealthy farmer who, upon harvesting a large crop, decided to build bigger barns to store his abundance. He planned to live a life of ease and luxury, but God called him a fool.The key is to store up treasures in heaven and “be rich in what matters to God.”We tend to forget that at any moment we may leave this earth and all that we possess in it after a life of collecting possessions for our earthly life.No one will be excluded from heaven because they lawfully possessed wealth. But it will exclude him if he lets this world's wealth possess him to the exclusion of God.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• August 3, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET
Send us a textCycle CLink to cover Art
August 3, 2025
Few thoughts are more terrifying than to be on your death bed and come to the realization that "I have wasted my life." We only have one life, one chance to live in this world. What a pity it would be to realize that we wasted it. In the parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus shares about a man who thought he had it all—bigger barns, early retirement, and a future full of ease. Unfortunately for him, God calls him a fool. Join us this Sunday so that we don't make the same mistake and instead understand what the good life truly looks like.
This morning, we'll reflect on the Parable of the Rich Fool. It is a story unique to the Gospel of Luke and provides us an opportunity to contemplate how our daily living reflects richness toward the One who created and sustains us. Sermon on Luke 12:13-21, delivered by the Reverend Mary Newberg Gale on July 13, 2025.
The Parable of the Rich Fool - Father Nate Beasley by
Title: The Rich Fool Series: Tell Me a Story - The Parables of Jesus Verse Reference: Luke 12:13-21 Campus: Keslinger Date: 08/03/25 Speaker: Brian Coffey If you are new (or newish) or would like to connect with a pastor, text the word "hello" to 630-686-7334, and Pastor Stetson will follow up with you! ============================= Announcements: ============================= • Here is our link to give online: https://chapelstreet.church/give • You can always find our weekly announcements listed on our website at https://chapelstreet.church/news ============================= Connect With Us: ============================= • Reach out to Pastor Stetson by texting the word "hello" to 630-686-7334. • Like/Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chapelstchurch • Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chapelstchurch • Explore our website: https://chapelstreet.church/
Title: The Rich Fool Series: Tell Me a Story - The Parables of Jesus Verse Reference: Luke 12:13-21 Campus: South Street Date: 08/03/25 Speaker: Brian Coffey If you are new (or newish) or would like to connect with a pastor, text the word "hello" to 630-686-7334, and Pastor Stetson will follow up with you! ============================= Announcements: ============================= • Here is our link to give online: https://chapelstreet.church/give • You can always find our weekly announcements listed on our website at https://chapelstreet.church/news ============================= Connect With Us: ============================= • Reach out to Pastor Stetson by texting the word "hello" to 630-686-7334. • Like/Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chapelstchurch • Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chapelstchurch • Explore our website: https://chapelstreet.church/
Title: The Rich Fool Series: Tell Me a Story - The Parables of Jesus Verse Reference: Luke 12:13-21 Campus: Mill Creek Date: 08/03/25 Speaker: Joe Scavatto If you are new (or newish) or would like to connect with a pastor, text the word "hello" to 630-686-7334, and Pastor Stetson will follow up with you! ============================= Announcements: ============================= • Here is our link to give online: https://chapelstreet.church/give • You can always find our weekly announcements listed on our website at https://chapelstreet.church/news ============================= Connect With Us: ============================= • Reach out to Pastor Stetson by texting the word "hello" to 630-686-7334. • Like/Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chapelstchurch • Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chapelstchurch • Explore our website: https://chapelstreet.church/
What if the joy you're chasing today vanishes when God calls you home? Focusing on Jesus' Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12:13–21, we confront the subtle grip of greed that tempts us to anchor our true joy in possessions rather than God's eternal love. Jesus' teaching challenges us to pause and ask… When God calls us home to Him, whose will our joy be? And even further…Whose is our joy today?
Our Full Baptismal Inheritance | Luke 12:13–21 How much is enough? That's the question that drives both the man in the crowd and the parable Jesus tells. Key Takeaways: We're tempted to believe the lie that more is always better—more stuff, more security, more control. But Jesus confronts this false security with the story of a rich man who builds bigger barns yet dies before enjoying them. The problem isn't wealth itself—it's when we worship it. Earthly treasures fade, but Christ gives us a better inheritance: His righteousness, His forgiveness, and His eternal life. Sealed in baptism, fed in His Supper, and grounded in His Word, this is the treasure that will not perish. Reflect on what truly endures. Share your thoughts in the comments and help spread the Gospel by sharing this video. ✝️ Worship with Us at Trinity – Sheboygan, WI Sundays – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Mondays – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org
In this Christ-centered sermon based on Luke 12:13–21, Pastor Balla of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod delivers a powerful proclamation of Law and Gospel: the soul that clings to Christ is the soul prepared when God requires it. Through the Parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus warns against the idolatry of possessions and calls us to treasure what cannot be stored in barns—faith in Him. This sermon confronts the vanity of worldly wealth, exposes the sin of covetousness, and offers the eternal riches found only in Jesus Christ. Rooted in Lutheran confessional theology and faithful to the ESV text, this message is ideal for anyone seeking solid Lutheran preaching, LCMS stewardship reflections, or teaching on eternal preparedness. Perfect for Bible study, devotional meditation, and pastoral encouragement. Join us as we confess the riches of God's grace in Christ alone. Subscribe for weekly Word-and-Sacrament preaching that proclaims Christ crucified for sinners.Hashtags:#LutheranSermon#LCMSPreaching#Luke121321#ChristAlone#RichTowardGod
The Parable of the Rich Fool: The Eighth Sunday After Pentecost- Lectionary: 08/03/2025 by Shawn Ozbun
Luke 12:13-21 // The Rich Fool // Aaron Morrow Sermon Video // https://youtu.be/OP2dPLAyBgM Find out more about River City Church at rivercitydbq.org
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that riches are not foolish, nor are they evil. It is the human heart that takes the blessings of God and condemns the very things that God would like us to use for His glory.
The Rich Fool, Ecclesiastes, and Finding True Wealth. Join Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they dive deep into the challenging texts for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost (August 3rd, 2025). This episode explores Luke's parable of the rich fool, examining what this wealthy man actually did wrong and why Jesus calls him "fool" rather than "sinner." The hosts tackle tough questions about wealth, possessions, and what it means to be "rich toward God." They discuss how the parable connects to our modern struggles with storage units, financial security, and the subtle ways greed can creep into our lives - even when we're just trying to be responsible. The conversation also explores the challenging pairing of this text with Ecclesiastes, examining the wisdom literature's perspective on vanity (Hebrew: hevel - like smoke or vapor) and the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits. Plus, they delve into the beautiful poetry of Hosea 11, where God's parental love and tender compassion shine through despite Israel's unfaithfulness. Commentaries for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/ordinary-18-3/commentary-on-luke-1213-21-6. * * * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/OUArBuV3u2g.
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that there is a pattern of thinking and living in what this parable calls a fool. When there is no thought of God, or to assist others, we can fall into temptation; A snare that comes with terrible consequences.
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that it seems right to consult our own thoughts, and we often push back on God's plan. But, when we're self-insured in our own security of riches, we fail to bless others with our abundance.
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that building up our wealth while thinking that it's never enough, is a sure sign that God is the last thing on our minds. To be rich is not foolish, but blessings can be a curse, when we refuse to use what we have for God's glory.
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that when we fail to think of design, we fail to include God in our plans for life. Whether we have plenty, or in lack, we can be taken up by materialism, not seeing that everything is a gift given by God.
Today, Pastor Jack teaches that we often forget how it all begins with God, and the blessing that comes when we're generous with what we have. Wealth is not the issue, it's what we do with it that makes all the difference to God.
Melissa Mueller teaches from Luke 12:16-21 on the challenge Christ gives us to trust in His rich abundance. Slides available at https://bit.ly/4kxRPap