Sunday, October 1, 2017

Messed Up Church: What's the Deal with Generosity?

Announcement: Communion is next Sunday, October 8th. We encourage your rGroup to take that week to find an opportunity to serve the community together, or use the time to host a party and invite guests to it. No blog will be posted in hopes that you'll use your time to serve others, hang out, and enjoy your friends.

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We're going to talk about how Christians are to be generous with their money. Let's be real... why do we dread these kinds of discussions, Bible verses, and sermons? (Probably because we know we've failed in this area, need improvement, or simply just find it hard to be generous.)

Money is important, and God knows this. That's why He's given us instructions on how to be successful with it.

Read 1 Corinthians 16:1-4

Verses 1-2 presents the expectation that EVERY believer is supposed to give. For youth or those who struggle financially, it seems like it would be easy to say economic difficulty is a reason not to give, but what beliefs or thoughts are the real root of this excuse?

Why is it important that EVERY believer contribute financially?

How does giving in the church reflect a commitment to the church and build unity in the church?

In verse 3, the word for "gift" in the original language is the same word as "grace." How does this picture affect your understanding of giving? How does this understanding influence your motivation for giving?

How do we make sure that giving does not become an obligation instead of a grace?

Read Matthew 25:14-26. Tithing reminds us of the responsibility of our stewardship. What does it mean to be a faithful steward? (Consistent and responsible manager of God's gifts.)

According to verse 2, what should we do first with our money?

Why does it need to be first? What is God's purpose for this?


Application:

(Head) What does God want you to KNOW from these scripture verses?

(Heart) What does God want you to DESIRE and VALUE?

(Hands) What does God want you to DO?

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