Preparation
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Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures:
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a. Mark 10:17–30; 12:41–44. A rich young man asks what he must do to gain eternal life, and Jesus teaches that trusting in riches can keep a person out of the kingdom of God. Jesus praises a poor widow for casting two mites into the treasury.
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b. Luke 12:13–21. Through the parable of the rich fool, Jesus teaches the dangers of covetousness. He exhorts his followers to seek heavenly, rather than earthly, treasures.
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c. Luke 14:15–33. Through the parable of the great supper, Jesus teaches that those who follow him must be willing to forsake all else.
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d. Luke 16:1–12. Through the parable of the unjust steward, Jesus teaches his followers to seek spiritual wealth with the same enthusiasm as those who seek worldly wealth.
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Additional reading: Matthew 19:16–30; Luke 18:18–30; 21:1–4; Jacob 2:18–19.
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If the picture Christ and the Rich Young Ruler (Gospel Art Picture Kit 244) is available, use it during the lesson.
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If you use the attention activity, make a monkey trap or draw one on the chalkboard (see the illustration below). To make a monkey trap, obtain a box with a lid. Secure the lid to the box, and cut in one side of the box an opening large enough for you to insert an open hand but not a fist. Put a piece of fruit or some nuts inside the box.
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Suggestion for teaching: Nephi said, “I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning” (1 Nephi 19:23). Study Teaching, No Greater Call (36123), pages 74, 159–60 and 170–71, to see how you can help class members liken, or apply, the scriptures to their lives.