The Road to Greatness is Paved with Generosity
Rev. D. Johns Sunday February 07 2010
Luke 20:45-21:4 2 Corinthians 8:1-4, 9:1-15, Romans 12:3-8
Paul’s Principles of Generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)
• Sow sparingly, reap sparingly
• Sow generously, reap generously
• Giving is a decision
• Giving is not to be done reluctantly or under compulsion but with cheer
• Generosity promotes thanksgiving; it begins and ends with thanksgiving
The Motivating Model of Macedonian Giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-4)
Rich generosity wells up, even out of severe trial and extreme poverty – in overflowing joy. That is because it comes from God’s grace. Their giving was way beyond their natural ability and entirely on their own initiative. In fact they pleaded to be privileged to contribute! It is god’s will that before giving to the offerings we give ourselves first to the Lord. Giving is a grace we can excel in. (see Romans 12:8)
Two other ‘motivating models’ for giving:
The Widow’s Mite in Luke 21:1-4 & Jesus in 2 Corinthians 8:9 (Jesus is “God’s indescribable gift” in 2 Corinthians 9:15)
Applying the truths:
- Carefully, prayerfully, enthusiastically plan for generous giving
- Let your checkbook reveal zeal for the Lord
- Generosity is for all of life, not just money. Where else can you give?
- What is holding your generosity back? (time priorities, values, habits, unresolved bitterness, anger..)
