Mark 12:41-44
41 And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. 43 And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
Main Idea
YOU ARE TO BE FAITHFUL WITH THE LITTLE YOU HAVE.
Outline
GIVING IS ROOTED IN OUR FAITH (VV41-42)
GIVING IS TIED TO OUR FAITH (VV43-44)
Discussion Questions
GIVING IS ROOTED IN OUR FAITH (VV41-42)
What is Jesus doing in verse 41? Why might this be significant?
What contrast do we see between the rich people and the widow?
What had Jesus just said about the scribes before this story?
Why do you think Jesus watches people give at the temple?
What does this story reveal about what Jesus values when it comes to giving?
Why didn’t Jesus stop the widow from giving her last two coins?
How does the widow’s offering demonstrate faith?
Why do you think money often reveals the condition of our hearts?
What are some common excuses people use for not being generous?
How does the “How much did that cost?” mentality affect the way we view money and others?
What would it look like for you to trust God more with the resources He has given you?
GIVING IS TIED TO OUR FAITH (VV43-44)
What surprising statement does Jesus make about the widow’s offering?
According to Jesus, how did the widow give differently than the rich?
What does Jesus mean when He says she gave “everything she had”?
Why does Jesus say the widow gave more than the rich even though her gift was small?
How does abundance sometimes make faith more difficult?
Why can generosity be a good indicator of trust in God?
Do you think generosity naturally flows from faith? Why or why not?
What are some ways money can become something we love, fear, or idolize?
In what ways can generosity strengthen our faith?
Looking Forward
What is one small way you could be more faithful with what God has given you this upcoming week?
Prayer Focus
Pray for hearts that trust God more than money.
Pray that God would help your community group be faithful with what He has entrusted to you.
Pray for contentment and freedom from greed or fear about finances.
Pray for wisdom in stewardship and generosity.
Pray that Peace Church would use its resources to glorify God and serve others well.
Pray for people at Peace Church and in our community who are struggling financially.
Pray that God would help each person at Peace Church grow in faith-filled generosity.