Stewardship vs. Consumerism
In a world that constantly urges us to accumulate, consume, and chase after more, there is a radically different way of living that Jesus invites us into – a life of stewardship. Rather than seeing ourselves as owners or consumers, we are called to recognize that everything we have – our time, talents, resources, relationships, and even our very breath – belongs to God. We are entrusted with these gifts not for our own self-indulgence, but to manage and multiply them for His kingdom and purposes.
In the third week of our “Kingdom vs. Culture” series, we explored this vision of stewardship as it is beautifully illustrated in Jesus’ parable from Matthew 25:14-30, where a master entrusts his property to his servants before going on a journey. As Pastor Jake pointed out, each servant receives a different amount, but all are given something. The first two faithful servants invest and multiply what they’ve been given, while the third, out of fear and a distorted view of the master, buries his talent and misses the opportunity to participate in something greater. The story is not just about money, but about every aspect of our lives – how we use our influence, our relationships, our skills, and our opportunities.
The root issue for the unfaithful servant is not simply laziness or fear, but a misunderstanding of the master’s character. Our view of God profoundly shapes how we live and steward what He’s given us. If we see God as stingy, absent, micromanaging, indifferent, or transactional, we will either hoard, hide, or misuse our gifts. But when we see God as generous, trustworthy, and abundantly good, we are freed to take risks, to give, to serve, and to invest in others without fear of running out.
Stewardship is not about how much we have, but how we hold and use what’s been entrusted to us. It’s about asking God, “How do you want me to use this for your kingdom?” – whether it’s our finances, our time, our relationships, or our unique abilities. This is a deeply practical and spiritual calling, one that requires us to continually examine our hearts, our motives, and our view of God. When we embrace this way of living, we find true joy, purpose, and the freedom to bless others as God has so richly blessed us.
Reflection Questions
- Pastor Jake challenged us to see everything – our time, talents, relationships, and resources – as belonging to God. Is there an area of your life where you still act like the owner instead of a steward? What would it look like to surrender that area to God?
- Think about your current view of God. Do you relate to any of the distorted views described in the sermon (scarcity, micromanaging, indifferent, transactional)? How has this view affected your willingness to give, serve, or take risks for God’s kingdom?
- The faithful servants in the parable invested what they were given, even though there was a risk of loss. Is there something God has given you (a skill, relationship, opportunity) that you’ve been “burying” out of fear, insecurity, or comparison? What is one step you could take to put it to use for God?
- Stewardship involves asking, “God, how do you want me to use this for your kingdom?” Choose one area—your finances, your time, or a relationship—and ask God that question. What do you sense He might be inviting you to do differently?
- Jake gave examples of people using their influence, skills, or relationships to bless others and advance God’s kingdom. Who is one person in your life you could intentionally invest in or serve this month? What would that look like?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from May 18th
- “The Lion and the Lamb”
- “My King Forever”
- “Goodness of God” (after the message)
- “Worthy of It All” (after the message)