Giving

1. Introduction

a. Welcome

b. Story of our first three months married

c. Pray

d. Read Phil 4:14-20

Philippians 4:14–20 NIV

14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. 17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. 18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

2. As Christians, we should maintain mutually beneficial relationships with our spiritual leaders Phil 4:14-16

a. The relationship does not waiver because of difficult times Phil 4:14-15

Philippians 4:14–15 NIV

14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. 15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;

b. The relationship extends to meeting material needs, not just spiritual needs Phil 4:16

Philippians 4:16 NIV

16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.

3. Christians should give financially to support their church and other ministries Phil 4:17-20

a. Pastors and other spiritual leaders should be motivated by what is beneficial for their flock. Phil 4:17

Philippians 4:17 NIV

17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.

b. Our giving is acceptable and pleasing to God.

Philippians 4:18 NIV

18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

i. Likened to sacrifices in the temple.

ii. Tithes and offerings

1. Hebrew word means a tenth.

2. (Mal 3:10 – test God in tithing, NT see 2 Cor and 1 Jn)

c. God will meet our needs. He is our source, not our bank accounts. Phil 4:19-20

Philippians 4:19–20 NIV

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

i. Needs vs wants

ii. Our obedience in giving brings glory to God.

4. Conclusion

a. Christian relationships should benefit each other. Look out for each other’s needs ahead of our own needs.

b. Christians should tithe, giving to support their church and other ministries.

c. God is our source. He meets our needs.