Untitled Sermon

Macedonian Church- participated in the collection for the Saints in Jerusalem.

5 things that Paul points out to us about this church

They were poor and afflicted

They were liberal with resource and giving.

They gave beyond their means-

Not credit card debt, but beyond what someone would naturally expect based on their resource

They begged to take part in the offering.

They gave not only money, but themselves and all their resources to the work of the Lord.

Paul is admonishing The Corinth church to do the same: You do many things well, add to it this liberality of your resource and giving.

Why should one be so liberal in resource?

Jesus set the example- He was rich, but became poor. Willingly for the sake of those He loves.

Finish what you started-

It is clear they began their giving a year ago, and spoke their intention to keep giving.

Good intention does not equate to faithfulness. It is in the follow through.

The parable of the 2 Sons asked to go into the field.

We know this parable relates to the sinners and tax collectors vs the Pharisaical Jews.

Beware the leaven of the Pharisees- yes with their lips, no with their actions.

We must be faithful.

Sharing of the burden:

It is a truth in today’s Church - 80/20 rule.

Give of what you can and participate.

Paul breaks out into excitement and exuberance. Why?

People shared in his passion and burden.

It is so lonely being a leader and sharing vision only to be asked “ What’s in it for me?”

If God hasn’t given you a role where you lead, you need to serve someone else’s vision.

AND you need to follow before you can lead anyway.

There is nothing more sobering and sad as a leader, then to have amazing vision from God and people don’t want to plug in.

They want to be fed…

THE MEAT IS ON THE STREETS-

3 final thoughts on giving- I think they work for time, treasure and talent

Reaping and Sewing- If you sew generously, you reap generously.

God loves a cheerful giver- Give what you want to give, but do it with gladness.

God can and will multiply resources for you for the purpose of more good works.

You cannot out-give God.

No one has ever gone broke giving to God.

Why to give to All Nations:

You can give again:

Close with prayer- dismiss