Week 15 - Christian Generosity

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

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DECLARATION:

Ephesians 2:20–22 (ESV)

20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

SVCC is built by God, upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, and with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone.

We are joined together by union with Christ, we are growing, and we are a dwelling place of God by his Spirit.

Prayer for...

INTRODUCTION:

Review:

WHY?…

TODAY: Christian Generousity

Opening Scripture:

2 Cor. 8:1-24

2 Corinthians 8:3 (ESV)

3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,

Practical Advice for Generous Living (8:7–15)

1. Be proficent not just in matters of faith, speech, and knowledge, but also in the grace of giving (v. 7)

2 Corinthians 8:7 “7 But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.”

Excellence in matters of faith, speech, and knowledge to be complemented by excellence in the grace of giving (v. 7)

Why the grace of giving is important…

Principle: We should give God the first and best of all that we have.

Objects: 9 red apples, 1 Golden Delicious apple (yellow apple), and a large cross

Experience: While standing in front of a large cross and a table of ten apples (9 red, 1 yellow), speak about the generosity of God and how he has given us much (pointing to the ten apples).

Emphasize that God owns all ten of the apples, but allows us to use 9 as we choose (point to the 9 red apples). Spend some time talking about the different ways we can enjoy using the 9 red apples.

Explain that tithing means a tenth, and it is called the firstfruits of our means. A tithe is what God asks of us. Illustrate the tenth by holding up the yellow apple.

After a clear explanation of the tithe, hold the yellow apple and offer a few thoughts on the uncanny way financial demands pop up. With each example, take a bite out of the yellow apple.

Example: "Oh! I just remembered we need new tires for the car!" (Take a bite out of the yellow apple.)

Example: "And let's face it—it's been a while since our family has had a good vacation." (Take another bite out of the yellow apple.)

Example: "Soccer season's about to begin, and we're going to have to pay for uniforms, cleats, season dues." (Take another bite out of the yellow apple.)

Continue in this vein until all that's left is the core of the yellow apple. Say, "God, this was my tithe, but a lot of stuff came up. This is all I have left."

Toss the apple core to the foot of the cross.

To close, further illustrate God's generosity by pointing to the cross and the generous gift of God's Son.

2. Be poor in order to enrich others (v. 9)

2 Corinthians 8:9 “9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.”

The example of Christ becoming poor in order to enrich others (v. 9)

“The more you have the less you can give, and the less you have the more you can give.” (Source: Mother Teresa, Leadership, Vol. 5, no. 1.)

3. Be practicing generosity in accordance with your means (vv. 11–12)

2 Corinthians 8:11–12 “11 So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have. 12 For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.”

4. By prosperity meet the needs of others (vv. 13–15)

2 Corinthians 8:13–15 “13 For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness 14 your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. 15 As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.””

The Ladder of Generosity:

1. Inconsistent small amounts

2. Tithes - 10%, which is obedience/“proficient” (O.T. & N.T. affirm this)

3. Offerings - more than 10% / “Be poor” / “By practicing generosity” / “By prosperity”

A. Mission Fund - What Paul is asking them to do in providing for believers elsewhere and for the Gospel going forth

B. Facility Fund - Special offerings and donation of labor for God’s house

C. Other organizations - As God directs you

4. Legacy Giving - giving beyond your lifetime

Giving “in memory or honor” through our website: Duane May, Judy Roberson, Oran Marshall, Jim Grammer, Jim Bell.

Conclusion/Reflection:

As we reflect on the grace of giving outlined in 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, may we be inspired to cultivate a spirit of generosity and leaving a legacy of generosity that goes beyond our lifetime. Let us emulate Christ's example of sacrificial giving, giving according to our means, and meeting the needs of others through our prosperity.

Through our willingness to give and serve others, may we reflect the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to a world in need.

Resource: The Blessed Life by Robert Morris

Talk It Over:

What role does the grace of giving play in demonstrating our love for others and our commitment to Christ?

In what ways can we emulate Christ's selflessness and generosity in our interactions with others and our stewardship of resources?

How can we overcome barriers such as fear or doubt that may hinder our willingness to give, trusting in God's provision and faithfulness?

How does the concept of reciprocity challenge our cultural norms regarding wealth accumulation and consumption?