God’s Grace and Giving Together
(2 Corinthians 9:5-15)
Grace and Our Attitude in Giving
How not to give….
Grudgingly (9:5)
Sparingly (9:6)
Reluctantly (9:7)
Under compulsion (9:7)
How to give….
Generously (9:5,6)
Cheerfully (9:7)
Grace and Our View of God in Giving
God is able (9:6): He can provide for us.
God is gracious (9:7-8): He loves to bless us.
God is faithful (9:9): He is committed to us.
God is the Owner.
God is not the taker of our stuff.
God is the Giver. We are God’s children and stewards. We manage God’s resources.
Tithe
First Fruits
Grace and the Forward Spiral of Giving Together
The overflowing grace of God to them overflows from them to others. Paul Barnett
God is the Giver at the beginning, middle, and end of our giving.
God graciously gives to us before we ever give (9:10).
God graciously gives through us as we give (9:11).
God graciously gives to us after we give (9:10).
We are blessed (9:8-11).
Others are blessed (9:12).
Life together is displayed (9:12-13).
The church advances (9:12-13).
God is glorified (9:11-13).
Those receiving these gifts will glorify God when they see the practical outworking of the gospel in the generosity of the Corinthians. African theologian Issiaka Coulibaly
Practical tips
Don’t be overwhelmed.
Learn how to manage God’s money.
Live within your means.
Rethink your habits and lifestyle.
Consider every significant purchase before God.
Remember that it all belongs to God.
If you aren’t giving, start somewhere.
If you are giving, but not your first and best, then work toward that.
If you are giving, but not as consistently as you should, consider setting up giving online.
If you are giving, then set goals and work toward an exciting percentage.