Introduction:

1. As with any organized body, the local church has operational costs that must be supported in some manner.

2. God has given clear directions for satisfying these needs.

3. Today we will ponder the key principles of giving as Christian worship.

Discussion:

I. Called to Give

A. God has always called His people to be a giving people (Deuteronomy 15:7-14; Matthew 5:42; Luke 6:30; Romans 12:13; James 2:14-17).

B. Giving is part of corporate worship in the weekly assembly of the church (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8-9).

II. Motivations to Give

A. Giving reflects likeness to God (James 1:17; Luke 6:35; Acts 14:17).

B. God blesses the generous (Acts 20:35; Philippians 4;19; Proverbs 3:9-10; 11:24-25; 2 Corinthians 9:6, 8-11).

C. God’s indescribable gift in Christ is the primary motivation (2 Corinthians 8:7-9; 9:10-15; 1 John 3:16-18; 4:19).

III. Principles of Giving

A. Giving is a grace (2 Corinthians 8:1-7).

B. Giving is fellowship (Philippians 4:15-17; 2 Corinthians 8:3-5).

C. Giving is a ministry (Acts 11:28-30; Romans 15:25-27; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8:4; 9:1).

D. Giving is priestly service (2 Corinthians 9:12).

E. Giving is sacrificial (2 Corinthians 8:2-3; 2 Samuel 24:24).

F. Giving is a joy (2 Corinthians 9:7).

G. Giving is willful rather than compulsory (2 Corinthians 8:3; 9:7).

H. Giving is something we seek out (2 Corinthians 8:3-4; Galatians 6:10).

I. Such giving of our means flows from giving ourselves to God first and subsequently to His people (2 Corinthians 8:5).

1. It is little wonder the Blessed Giver expects His children to be givers.

2. Giving is one more means by which God is forming our character.

3. We must learn to love as He loves to excel in this grace (2 Corinthians 8:8-9).

4. Then we must trust Him to provide the means to do so (2 Corinthians 9:8-11).