A Giving Church

Introduction

A shift of mindset. Tired at the gym, remember the benefits. Rather watch another episode, benefits of rest. Rather not save, benefits of paying up front for something big.

Rather not tithe… Today we will talk about the shift in mindset that leads to us being both a generous church and a faithful church.

Considering that shift and the benefits...

At a fundraiser where the keynote speaker was excited to ask people to give.

“Each dollar represents change and I get to invite you to be a part of that change.”

I like knowing that when we submit that 10% through easytithe each month, that is is resourcing the Gospel to go out.

Paul had been having similar discussions with the Christians in Corinth.

A wealthy city by that time’s standards, but one that had not had a shift in mindset towards generosity.

Paul had written them earlier about coming by to collect the offering that would go to Jerusalem.

1 Corinthians 16:2 ESV

2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

When you gather for worship, take up your offering.

How much of a shift in that mindset determined the size of that offering.

A true statement for us today as well.

Change Your Mind

vv. 6-7

Sparing vs. Bountifully (from the blessing). Scarcity vs. Abundance.

Your mindset matters because it will determine generosity.

Decide based upon what?

Matthew 23:23 ESV

23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.

Mindset matters - be a cheerful giver!

Have a mindset of trust.

God’s blessings will always be greater.

Not mechanical retribution - Leap of Faith (1992). Jonas Nightingale.

A result of your good works, all 3 Xs. Bless you to bless others.

Trust Him with your eternal life, trust Him with your finances.

Have a mindset of blessing.

Chain of provision. God to Us to Others.

Having an outward awareness.

Blinders on mules.

Look for opportunities to be a blessing.

Have a mindset of worship.

Not just blessing people, but our faithfulness leads to worship.

Faith + Generosity = Worship

Faith (-Generosity) = Good Intentions

Generosity (-Faith) = Selfish Philanthropy or Temporary Relief

Have a mindset of gratitude.

Paul saves his best reason for last - Gratitude.

Gratitude for all that God has given to us, salvation in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

A change of attitude leads to a change of actions.

And I know that when we talk about the tithe, people get uneasy and plenty of push back can be given.

Intimidating! 10%! Unreasonable! I’m barely making it now!

A couple of things that help this shift of mindset:

Have a financial plan. Think before you spend. Budget. Track. Look for wasteful spending.

Take incremental steps. If nothing, start with 1%. Then next month go to 2%.

Rejoice in the impact. Local. State. Global.

We will show you how your dollars here go on to make a difference.