Givers Live Longer

[Announce text] Please look with me in Scripture at Acts 4:32-5:11.

[Scripture introduction] The third chapter in Luke’s second volume in the book of Acts continues with new community of baptized believers who live as the New Temple of the Lord.

[Reannounce and read text] Read with about the two-tales of generosity in Acts 4:32-5:11. [The preacher reads the Scripture passage out loud.]

[Prayer for illumination] Pray with me as we ask God to direct our hearts and minds into his sacred word. [The minister offers a brief prayer asking the Holy Spirit to bless the understanding of the preacher and hearers as God’s Word is proclaimed.]

[Introduction] We are what we do…

Barnabas, Ananias and Sapphira all presented their gifts to the church. But the outcomes of their lives were tragically different.

[FCF] When does it become dangerous to be a generous person?

The measurement of our generosity is determined based on the Word. [Scripture bond] It’s in Acts 4:32-5:11 that we see why one party is safe and the other is in danger.

[Main Point 1] Christians are to be Spirit-filled givers.

One hear and Soul and had everything in common (Fulfilled Torah)

Testified to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus (Indwelt Spirit)

Known for their offerings (Temple People)

[Main Point 2] Christians are never to be Satan-filled takers.

Their motivation led to their demise (Improper generosity)

God was protecting the newly formed group from disruption (Satan’s scheme)

Ananias and Sapphira were removed for their sins (Removal from the Temple)

[Main Point 3] Christians who are generous givers live better.

You are what you do.

God requires you to be give generously, show hospitality, and share with others.

God requires your giving to grow, table to be set, and door be open.

Greater grace of God will be on you when you live like Barnabas.

God has given you the Spirit so you can live a unified Christian life for Jesus.

[Proposition] It's always safe to be generous when your heart is filled with the Holy Spirit.

[Conclusion] Be the Sent Church that gives with a clean heart filled with God’s Holy Spirit.

[Prayer for Transformation] Pray with me as we ask the Lord to transform us. [The minister prays for the congregation to reflect, repent, and renew themselves to Lord and to drink of the salvation of Christ.]