Make Money Your Slave
Zac Poonen teaches that Christians must master money as a servant, being faithful stewards who avoid selfish gain and instead honor God by using wealth sacrificially and responsibly.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of being faithful with money as a reflection of our faithfulness to God. It highlights the need to be wise and generous in handling finances, to avoid being conceited or placing hope in uncertain riches, and to prioritize God's kingdom first. The teaching stresses the balance of enjoying God's blessings while being rich in good works, ready to share, and generous to the poor, following the example of Jesus and biblical principles.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Heart of God for His Church
- God desires believers to be the men He wants them to be.
- Paul’s example of zealous preaching and tears for the church.
- The tragedy of believers not fulfilling God's purpose.
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II. The Danger of Selfishness and Division
- Wolves will come after faithful leaders depart.
- The problem of elders seeking their own following.
- The contrast between Babylon (business) and Jerusalem (sacrifice).
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III. Jesus’ Zeal Against Money-Making in the Temple
- Jesus driving out money changers with a whip.
- The difference between business in the marketplace and God’s house.
- The church must not be a place for personal gain.
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IV. Faithfulness with Money as a Test of Stewardship
- God entrusts true riches to those faithful with money.
- All money belongs to God; believers are stewards.
- The importance of giving with the right heart and understanding.
Key Quotes
“God's work throughout history has very often been done by one man.” — Zac Poonen
“The house of God is not the place for you to gain something for yourself.” — Zac Poonen
“If you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you?” — Zac Poonen
Application Points
- Be faithful and responsible with money, recognizing it ultimately belongs to God.
- Avoid selfish ambition and division within the church by seeking to serve rather than gain.
- Use your resources sacrificially to advance God's kingdom, not personal wealth or reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Zac Poonen emphasize faithfulness with money?
Because faithfulness with money is a test God uses to entrust believers with true riches like spiritual anointing and revelation.
What does it mean that all money belongs to God?
It means that believers are stewards, not owners, and must use money responsibly and with God’s approval.
Why did Jesus drive out the money changers from the temple?
Because He opposed turning God’s house into a place of business and personal gain.
What is the danger of elders seeking their own following?
It leads to division, weakens the church, and opens the door for destructive influences.
How can believers avoid making money their master?
By being faithful stewards, avoiding selfish gain, and using money sacrificially for God’s work.