Lessons on Giving - 2
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Introduction
1.
Americans are the most giving
people of all the nations in the world
2.
Some churches strive to increase
contributions by emphasizing the legal aspects of the Old Testament
3.
This series of lessons on giving
follows the lessons on Jesus
Discussion
1.
Review of tithing and giving in the
Old Testament
a.
The tithes of the law – for the
Levites, for the feasts, for the poor
b.
The giving of Abraham, Jacob (a
tithe) and
c.
The case of David – 2 Sam 24:24
2.
The rich young man – Matt
19:16-26
a.
Jesus’ answer prompted by the
young man’s question
b.
A further question – “What do I
still lack?”
c.
Jesus’ answer – “If you would
be complete (mature, perfect) . . .”
d.
His response brought personal grief
3.
Giving for the church in
a.
1 Cor 16:1-2
i.
giving is each week
ii.
giving is “as prospered”
b.
Reference to the churches of
c.
Equality in giving – 2 Cor
d.
The law of sowing and reaping – 2
Cor 9:6
e.
The principle of “purposing”
– 2 Cor 9:7
Conclusion
1.
Giving is a “grace” – 2 Cor
8:7 – it does not happen spontaneously, but is a gift that needs to be
cultivated
2.
Giving comes from a heart that is
thankful to God
3.
God has taken me from the darkness
of sin and placed me in the kingdom of His dear Son – Col 1:13
4.
Giving reflects our understanding
of what God has done for each of us – little giving, little appreciation,
great giving, great appreciation