55-giving to the Lord
GIVING TO THE LORD !! Matthew 6, 2 COR 8 If we remember we spent time laying the foundation on this topic. We covered .. 1- nothing is ours - we are Stewart's NOT owners 2- one kingdom VS two Kingdoms When we go this it changes everything in our lives. And then we left off 2 Corinthians 8 Background .... The situation: The folks back in Jerusalem had run into hard times financially. Paul was collecting contributions from the Gentile churches to help these brethren out. (1 Cor 16:1-3 NLT) Now about the money being collected for the Christians in Jerusalem: You should follow the same procedures I gave to the churches in Galatia. {2} On every Lord's Day, each of you should put aside some amount of money in relation to what you have earned and save it for this offering. Don't wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once. {3} When I come I will write letters of recommendation for the messengers you choose to deliver your gift to Jerusalem. Paul told the Corinthians to start taking collections for the church in Jerusalem. Note: This is a collection for another group. Paul isn’t asking for himself or “his church”. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------three churches of Macedonia Paul had in mind were Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. Macedonia was an abysmally poor region, ravaged by wars and plundered by the Romans. But despite its deep poverty, the Macedonian believers were amazingly generous ("/>cf. 11:9; Phil. 2:25; 4:15, 18).1
"/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 1MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (276). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 1
WHY DO WE GIVE - WHY DO WE SERVICE. THE GRACE OF GOD. grace - charis - objectively, that which causes favourable regard, gracefulness, grace, loveliness of form, graciousness of speech; subjectively, on the part of the giver, grace, graciousness, kindness, goodwill, favor; of the divine favour, grace, with emphasis on its freeness and universality; on the part of the receiver, a sense of favour received, thanks, gratitude. Charis is also the root for one of the Greek words for “gift” (charisma). In 2Corinthians 8-9, the word charis is found 10 times! GRACE- unmerited favor.. We sometime remember it as. Gods Richest At Christ's Expense. Its because we are loved that we love, its because nothing is ours when God wants us to give it, then we give, its not our in the first place and I am in love with JESUS because of his wonderful GRACE !!! Its the grace in which I stand. Keith Green - Grace by which I stand Lord, the feelings are not the same, I guess I'm older, I guess I've changed. And how I wish it had been explained, that as you're growing you must remember, That nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I know that I would surely fall away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. Lord, I remember that special way, I vowed to serve you, when it was brand new. But like Peter, I can't even watch and pray, one hour with you, And I bet, I could deny you too. But nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I'm sure that my whole life would waste away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. 2
But nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I know that I would surely fall away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. Amen and AMEN, its the grace of God that holds on to us.. Because we love him so much . We want to give to the kingdom, we what to follow him with all we have. Because of HIS GRACE..
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2 that in a great trial of affliction / the abundance of their joy / and their deep poverty ---abounded in the riches of their liberality. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(2 Cor 8:2 NLT) Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, their wonderful joy and deep poverty have overflowed in rich generosity. Look closely what he says. great trail of affliction = abundance of joy ?? They had deep poverty = riches in giving Does that sound right ?? No , unless its Grace, unless it stewardship , unless it is full out love for GOD. Only then can that make any since.
It was their liberality, their graciousness that was wealthy, not necessarily the gift. The circumstances for their giving weren’t what we’d call ideal. We sometimes get the idea that the time to give is when you win the Lottery, or get a bonus, or things are going right for you. Not so here. The people that give continually to the work of God are not necessary the rich but the common person.. But the Macedonians rose above their trying circumstances. They did not allow their situation to have a negative effect on their giving. In the midst of their trials, they put the needs of others, whom they had never met, ahead of their own. Though their poverty may have limited the amount they could give, it did not diminish their love. Devout Christians give no matter what the situation, because even the worst circumstances cannot hinder their devotion to Jesus Christ.2 Deep translates the phrase kata bathos (lit., “according to the depth”). The corresponding English expression would be “extremely deep”; or in the vernacular, “the pits” or “rock bottom.” 2MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (278). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 3
High taxes, slavery, low economic status, and persecution had all reduced the Macedonian believers to abject poverty. Ptōcheia (poverty) describes those with almost nothing, forced to beg to survive3 THEY WERE GIVERS – THEY CARED ABOUT PEOPLE These guys were givers and takers.. --------THEY WERE NOT DOING THIS TO BE SEEN !!!!! REMEMBER THERE THIS ALL STARTED, DONT LET YOUR RIGHT HAND KNOW WHAT YOUR LEFT HAND IS DOING.. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The idea is not that they gave way over and above what they could afford, but the idea is that they knew what they could give, and gave a little more besides. of their own accord - authairetoi - self chosen, of one’s own accord. Paul hadn’t pressured them or twisted their arms to get them to give. They did it on their own. They were FREELY WILLING TO GIVE, they were not begged or manipulated - simply out of a love for GOD again we want to be part of the kingdom. God wants us to understand about giving. Giving is a huge topic in the bible, forms of this word is used some 1800 times in the Old testament and 400 times in the new4 Larry Burkett “Giving should be an outward, material expression of a deep spiritual commitment, an indication of a willing and obedient heart” Giving is simply a outward indicator of what is going on in a persons relationship to Jesus 3MacArthur, 4
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (278). Chicago: Moody Publishers.
David Hocking - passing the buck . pg3 4
David hocking said -( Passing the buck) “the matter of giving is a most serious Christian issue. many of us are having problems in our marriages and our families. We are struggling with our individual walk with the Lord over the issue of money and we don’t even know that’s the problem.” So again , when its all his, and I am living for Jesus , then giving is a natural part of who I am .
*** Giving is Sacrificial They gave ABOVE THERE ABILITY !!
and beyond their ability, (8:3b) The Macedonians gave according to what they had but in proportions that were sacrificial. Their giving was beyond what could reasonably be expected of such a poor congregation. Life was difficult for them; as noted in verse 2, they faced extreme poverty and persecution. Yet despite their desperate circumstances, they joyfully gave with no regard for themselves, compelled by the needs of the poor saints in Jerusalem ("/>cf. Heb. 13:16). They believed God’s promise to supply all their needs (Phil. 4:19) and refused to worry about them (Matt. 6:25–34), gladly placing themselves in deeper dependence on Him. Like David, who would not give the Lord something that cost him nothing (1 Chron. 21:24), and the poor widow, who gave all she had (Mark 12:42–44), the Macedonians gave with selfless abandon. 5
As we talk about Real giving must be sacrificial. The amount of the gift never matters so much as its cost to the giver, not the size of the gift, but the sacrifice. Real generosity gives until it hurts. For many of us it is a real question if ever our giving to God’s work is any sacrifice at all. Few people will do without their pleasures to give a little more to the work of God. It may well be a sign of the decadence of the church of the failure to our Christianity that gifts have to be coaxed out of church people, and that often they will not give at all unless they get something back in the way of entertainment or of goods. There can be few of us who read this story without shame. ---They did not make excuses , they gave when they did not have it. When things get hard the first thing we do is pull out tithe, why is that ?? "/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 5MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (280). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 5
Remember in Malachi
Malachi this book is written during a time that the captives are over the Jews have lost there enthusiasm for God. worship seemed routine and boring. the wealthy took advantage of the poor. the priests had taken Foreign wives, something that the Lord did not approve of. a time that the people took for granted there worship of God./
Malachi 1:6-8 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 “A son honors his father, And a servant his master. If then I am the Father, Where is My honor? And if I am a Master, Where is My reverence? Says the LORD of hosts To you priests who despise My name. Yet you say, ‘In what way have we despised Your name?’ 7 “You offer defiled food on My altar, But say, ‘In what way have we defiled You?’ By saying, ‘The table of the LORD is contemptible.’ 8 And when you offer the blind as a sacrifice, Is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, Is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” Says the LORD of hosts. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------these guys were very disrespectful to God in the manner of offering the sacrifices the Leviticus law laid down they type of sacrifice and note what they were bringing. Deu, 15:21 no animal with a blemish could be offered to God, God wanted your best not your second best, try giving to your governors what you give to me where would you be. they would say well the cow is sick anyway here God this is yours. I’m afraid that many give to God this way, O here is what I have left, I guess I will give it to God. this is wrong. try giving that to the government what do you think he would do to you./ A loss of quality in your financial giving. If you gradually start withholding financial contributions to your church and other ministry-related causes, that is probably a sign of waning commitment. Just as a parent is worthy of respect and an employer is worthy of one’s best work, so God our Father and Master deserves our best offerings (Mal. 1:6–8). He is not pleased with lame efforts, weak excuses, or cheap gifts (1:7–11).6
What if we paid our taxes the way we tithe, may Christians would be in jail. How about our service to God.. what if we worked the way we service God.. show up late if we show up at all. Half heartily service..
6Word
in life study Bible. 1997, c1996 (electronic ed.) (Mal 1:6). Nashville: Thomas Nelson. 6
------------------------------Now it is interesting, that we are always shocked when the church is broken in two and someone takes something from the church. We think, “is there no fear of God in their hearts?” I mean, after all, this is the church; you're taking from the church. We have had our agape box broken into on many occasions. People stealing money out of the agape box. That's pretty low. I mean, I can understand them robbing a liquor store, but the church? But you know, the Lord asks, “will a man rob God?” And maybe He's asking some of you tonight. And God said, -You see, the Lord claims as belonging to Him a tenth of your increase. That was the requirement of the law: to bring a tenth of your increase unto the Lord. It belongs to Him. Actually, everything belongs to Him, but all He asks for is ten percent commission of all that he gives to you. That's not bad. And so they were withholding their tithes, that ten percent. “Tithe” means ten percent. And thus, as a result of it, He said, --
Malachi 3:8-10 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I believe this scripture is for today, will a man rob God you are robbing him if you do not tithe, ROB- To steal, deprive of something rightfully owned. can you steal from God.. yes
Will a man rob God? It seems crazy to think that a man could rob God. What could someone possibly steal from God? The LORD makes it clear - they robbed God by withholding their tithes and offerings. It’s an expression of astonishment: Will a man rob God? • • • •
• • • •
Astonishing because it is such a daring thing to do Astonishing because it is shamefully ungrateful Astonishing because it is senselessly self-destructive Astonishing because it will certainly be punished
TITHES AND OFFERINGSthere is a difference, the tithes are 10% of you increase,
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if is your first fruits, your best to God not your leftovers. I believe you right the tithe check before you write any other, this is your first fruits. Never your leftovers.. Can you borrow your tithe, Lev. 27:30-31, you will pay back 1/5 or 29% Leviticus 27:30-31 30 And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD’s. It is holy to the LORD. 31 If a man wants at all to redeem any of his tithes, he shall add one-fifth to it. iv. The Law of Moses had a detailed system of giving based on the tithe (Deuteronomy 14:22-29 is one passage describing this system). If you failed to pay your tithe, you were assessed a 20% penalty (Leviticus 5:14-16; 22:14; 27:31-32). Nevertheless, tithing predated the law (Genesis 14:18-20). -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 You
are cursed with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------were do you bring it to the store house, the store house is the local church. that place you attend and are fed Gods word. I send my money to this ministry or that one. I believe this is not what is meant by bring to the store house, bring it into the store house, that one place. offerings are for the others.,/ a place in the temple to bring the grain. WHY- That there many be food in my house Tithing is Old testament: Goes back to Law, but if you note in
Jesus is dealing with the Pharisees and there hypocrisy, Matt. 23:23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for you pay tithe of mint and anise and Cummins, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law. Justice and mercy and faith. these you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone”
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they tithes there spices, do this but you forgot to do the most important., the practice was also going in the new testament church,
1 Cor. 16:2 “Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him that there be no gatherings when O come.” If you follow the early church in history you see that tithing and offerings were a common practice. I know a lot of pastor and the struggle they have over finances, -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------PROVE ME- this is the only place that we see God saying test him or prove him, you check it out if it is not so. if he will not bless you. NT- Give and it will be given unto you, you sow what you reap ect., this is not giving to get, but the promise is it may not be finical, some times it is but it many not be it may be blessing beyond you can even understand./ It is interesting to me that God only challenges us in one area to prove Him. Only one place does God challenge us to prove Him, and that's in our giving. Just prove me now, saith the Lord. See if I won't pour out unto you the best blessing, so great you won't have room to contain it. And this is what he will do.
In the context you are giving to God not to man, your responsibility is to give to God...../ REMEMBER NOTING IS OURS BACK TO 2 COR.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Can you imagine anybody now a days begging for the opportunity to give money away? These folks saw it as a privilege to give.
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When you ‘GET IT’ you want to give, you want to serve. Remember last week, WE GET TO SERVICE. This understanding that I am a stewart not a owner is so freeing, I want to give. When I see the results in a persons face I want to give .. *** I GET TO GIVE NOT HAVE TO
fellowship - koinonian - fellowship, communion, Contribution as outcome of fellowship. They wanted to “share” in this giving project. of the ministering - diakonias - the office and work of a deacon, service, ministry. Giving is one type of ministry. Robertson - Apparently Paul had been reluctant to press the Macedonians because of their manifest poverty. They demanded the right to have a share in it. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------***again when we give ourself to God first , then giving becomes a privilege by the will of God - thelematos - (from thelo, to will, be willing, wish, desire) will Before they gave any money, they first gave their hearts to the Lord, and they gave their hearts to Paul. This is what we stuck on , when we do this the rest becomes easy. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Apparently Titus had gotten the Corinthians started in collecting for this gift for Judea. ** make sure where you give there is accountability !!! There is many ministries that only a very little portion of what you give goes to what they say it does. Why do we support Compassion or OCC .. Even your church. We spend much time making sure what we do it right before God.
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When it comes to finances there HAS to be accountably when it is GODS money.. We have oversight by outside auditors. This year we have had two audits ,one from ECFA who is
ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible StewardshipTM. Founded in 1979, ECFA provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with established standards for financial accountability, fundraising and board governance. Members include Christian ministries, denominations, churches, educational institutions and other tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. Collectively, these organizations represent more than $15 billion in annual revenue. All our information is online , how much we brought in and how much goes back out and where it goes. And then a close audit of all our books. Confident that the Corinthians would follow the example of the Macedonians and submit to their pastors’ direction, Paul urged Titus that as he had previously made a beginning, so he would also complete in the Corinthians this gracious work of giving as well. As noted above, Titus had made a beginning of the work of collecting the Corinthians’ offering about a year earlier (2 Cor. 9:2). He had recently returned to Corinth bringing the severe letter, and Paul had urged him to help the Corinthians complete their giving. So Paul through his letters ("/>cf. 1 Cor. 16:2) and Titus through his visits had both informed the Corinthians about what they expected them to do.7
2 Corinthians 9
"/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 7MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (285). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 Now concerning the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you; -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Superfluous 4053.! περισσός pĕrissŏs, per-is-sos´; from 4012 (in the sense of beyond); superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by impl. excessive; adv. (with 1537) violently; neut. (as noun) preeminence:— exceeding abundantly above, more abundantly, advantage, exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more, superfluous, vehement [-ly].8 2 Corinthians 9:1 (NLT) 1 I really donʼt need to write to you about this ministry of giving for the believers in Jerusalem. The Corinthiansʼ need to complete what they had eagerly begun (8:6, 10) concerned Paul. He had not found it necessary to write about the need to give aid to Jerusalem Christians. The Corinthians had agreed enthusiastically (8:11) to be involved in this service (diakonias) to the saints (cf. 8:4; 9:12-13). They were eager to help (cf. 8:4), a fact that Paul had relayed to the Macedonians the year before, which in turn had spurred the Macedonians on (stirred … them to action). The difference between the Macedonians and the Corinthians, however, lay in their diligence in seeing the project through to completion. Slow starters, the Macedonians finished quickly. But the Corinthians, willing in spirit, needed help in disciplining the flesh (cf. Matt. 26:41; Rom. 6:19).9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------impl.
impl. = implied, impliedly, implication
adv.
adv. = adverb, adverbial, adverbially
neut.
neut. = neuter (gender)
8
Strong, J. (1997). The new Strong's dictionary of Hebrew and Greek words. Nashville: Thomas Nelson. cf.
confer, compare
cf.
confer, compare
cf.
confer, compare
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Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (2 Co 9:1–2). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. 12
2 for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Corinthians had begun a year earlier to collect funds for Jerusalem. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 Yet I have sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this respect, that, as I said, you may be ready; ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul had sent Titus to make sure that they were ready.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 lest if some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you!) should be ashamed of this confident boasting. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------That you would say yes we are going to do this or that and then not follow through. **** GIVING is to be honest, if you are going to give , then give it. Don't pull you tithe --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul uses an abundance of verbs here that have the preposition “before” (pro) tacked on the front. Lit. - “So I thought it necessary to encourage the brethren that they would go before to you and arrange beforehand your before-promised gift...” Paul’s trying to get the point across that they’re late with the gift. He’s rubbing it in their face. I also think it important to think here how Paul wanted the collection all taken care of before he got there. I don’t think it’s the pastor’s place to stand and watch over the people to make sure they give enough.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------There is a dynamic of living our life with open hands. Giving and being a giver. bountifully - lit. “blessingly” (eulogiais) Paul is using physical, agricultural principles that apply to spiritual things. You will reap proportionally to how much you have sown. (2Cor.9:6) Here in 2Cor., Paul is saying that the amount you sow will affect the amount you reap. If you plant two wheat kernels, don’t expect to reap ten acres of wheat. If you want to reap much from the Lord, then you need to give much. It’s much bigger than just money. How much of yourself are you giving to the Lord? Keep in mind, Paul is talking about money here. There is truth here. Remember the context, Paul is talking about taking up a collection for the poor in Jerusalem. The pitfall is when we try to take principles like this and use them in a fleshly way, like trying to become rich. (1 Tim 6:10 KJV) For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Back to our principle, it is important that we learn to not hold on to our money too tightly. The more you give to others, the more you’ll find others giving to you. If you are having a rough time financially, you may need to check and see if you are giving freely to others. That’s not the only possibility, there are many others (you lack selfcontrol, God is testing your faith...etc.). --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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** GIVING IS A ATTITUDE OF YOUR HEART
this is a attitude of the heart, understanding that all is his. our attitude. What you have purposed in your heart, I dont know who gives what, that is between you and God. Giving to God is a act of worship, we say thank you God for what you have done for me, I thank you. There for a long time we did not take a offering, and I really believe that God wanted us not to do that.. than it was said that “money at Calvary chapel is a necessary evil” Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Four words to circle here. This verse is the New Testament guide to giving. 1. purposeth – proeretai - perf.mid.ind. proaireo - to bring forth, forward; in mid., to take by choice, prefer, propose, to choose beforehand. Only here. Lit. “Let each one do just as he has chosen before and still desires to do...” The New Testament standard of giving is that of giving from your own free will. I think it’s also interesting to note that it’s what you have purposed in your heart, not your mind. It’s not giving what you “know you ought to give”, but it’s “giving what you feel is right”. God desires us to give from the heart, not necessarily the mind. ITS BETWEEN YOU AND GOD. However..
IF CHRISTIANS WOULD JUST TITHE A organization Called empty tomb did some research in Wheaten Illinois, did some calculations and found that if all Christian would just tithe. * every church facility in the world, * every church debt would be paid for in 2 years. there would be no debt, * every university, bible school, would be totally covered. * begin to feed every hungry person in the world, 15
if the Christians would just tithe./ in two years According to Newsweek, most church members give far less than 10%, most giving under 2 per cent. Not surprising is the fact that the poor give a far greater portion of their income than the rich. USA Today (Oct. 25, 1990) tells us that families earning less than $10,000 give 5.5 per cent of their income to charity (not necessarily to church). Families earning between $50,000 and $60,000 give only 1.7% of their earnings. 2. not grudgingly - lupes; pain of body or mind, grief, sorrow; the opposite of joy. We might call it a “pain in the pocketbook”. There is also an implied command here (use of me), “Do not give grudgingly”. It’s not the actual amount that causes some people pain, it’s the fact that they have to give up something of their own. Have you ever had a person give you a gift, then complain how much it hurts them to give it up? Just keep it! Giving grudgingly comes from pride and selfishness. When we think we have a right to keep all that God has given us for our own use, then we’re headed for “grudgingly”.
3. not of necessity - anagkes; Necessity, to be compelled, of necessity; force, violence. As if it were like pulling eye-teeth. Implied command here also. When the preacher says, “You must give or God’s work will stop”, then don’t! The idea of not giving under compulsion is to give spontaneously, without having to be told. A healthy church will beg to give, not be begged to give. Does this mean that anyone in ministry who asks for or even mentions money is a “false teacher”? No. The whole passage we’re dealing with is Paul asking the Corinthians to give. There is nothing wrong in asking people to give or in letting people know of needs. The problem is in the pressure tactics. giving out of fear. we are to reverence God. I have to give or God will punish me. never support a ministry that threatens you as a fund raisers. Proverbs 3:9-10
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9 Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; 10 So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine. God has given us promise after promise, yet in our materialistic would we are taught to take , take , and not give. You don’t have to Tithe it is a privilege, PRAISE REPORTS giving to impress others, this is what the Pharisees did why he said in
Matt. 6:3 “When you give alms do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” Not all giving consists of cash donation. you may donate your time or services or non cash gifts . you time ect./ why do we give, because there is love involved, in doing so I say that everything that I have all that I am I give you. not to man, when you give you do not give to a man or ministry you give to God. It is our responsibly to make sure that ministry is faithful in that money, you do not give to men!!!!!! 4. a cheerful giver - hilaron; cheerful, joyful (hilarious). Found only here in N.T. It can also be translated “glad”. Used of daylight, songs, messages, and especially people (in other sources). LXX uses it for “cheerful countenance” or the “favor” of a ruler. It is the opposite of grumbling. Isn’t it sad that in some churches the most somber point of the worship service is when the plate is passed during the offering. We GET to GIVE NOT have to. I get to be part of what God is doing
GIVING ON-LINE --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------A common worry we face when thinking about giving is, “Will there be enough for me?” The answer is yes! (Phil.4:10-19) What about me, will there be enough for ME.. PUT GOD FIRST. Put GOD TO THE TEST. 17
PUT GOD FIRST , HE WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU !!!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------GOD SEES YOUR GIVING AND WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU !!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2 Corinthians 9:10–15 (NLT) 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ.14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you.15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!
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"/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 1MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (276). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 1
WHY DO WE GIVE - WHY DO WE SERVICE. THE GRACE OF GOD. grace - charis - objectively, that which causes favourable regard, gracefulness, grace, loveliness of form, graciousness of speech; subjectively, on the part of the giver, grace, graciousness, kindness, goodwill, favor; of the divine favour, grace, with emphasis on its freeness and universality; on the part of the receiver, a sense of favour received, thanks, gratitude. Charis is also the root for one of the Greek words for “gift” (charisma). In 2Corinthians 8-9, the word charis is found 10 times! GRACE- unmerited favor.. We sometime remember it as. Gods Richest At Christ's Expense. Its because we are loved that we love, its because nothing is ours when God wants us to give it, then we give, its not our in the first place and I am in love with JESUS because of his wonderful GRACE !!! Its the grace in which I stand. Keith Green - Grace by which I stand Lord, the feelings are not the same, I guess I'm older, I guess I've changed. And how I wish it had been explained, that as you're growing you must remember, That nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I know that I would surely fall away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. Lord, I remember that special way, I vowed to serve you, when it was brand new. But like Peter, I can't even watch and pray, one hour with you, And I bet, I could deny you too. But nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I'm sure that my whole life would waste away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. 2
But nothing lasts, except the grace of God, by which I stand, in Jesus. I know that I would surely fall away, except for grace, by which I'm saved. Amen and AMEN, its the grace of God that holds on to us.. Because we love him so much . We want to give to the kingdom, we what to follow him with all we have. Because of HIS GRACE..
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2 that in a great trial of affliction / the abundance of their joy / and their deep poverty ---abounded in the riches of their liberality. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(2 Cor 8:2 NLT) Though they have been going through much trouble and hard times, their wonderful joy and deep poverty have overflowed in rich generosity. Look closely what he says. great trail of affliction = abundance of joy ?? They had deep poverty = riches in giving Does that sound right ?? No , unless its Grace, unless it stewardship , unless it is full out love for GOD. Only then can that make any since.
It was their liberality, their graciousness that was wealthy, not necessarily the gift. The circumstances for their giving weren’t what we’d call ideal. We sometimes get the idea that the time to give is when you win the Lottery, or get a bonus, or things are going right for you. Not so here. The people that give continually to the work of God are not necessary the rich but the common person.. But the Macedonians rose above their trying circumstances. They did not allow their situation to have a negative effect on their giving. In the midst of their trials, they put the needs of others, whom they had never met, ahead of their own. Though their poverty may have limited the amount they could give, it did not diminish their love. Devout Christians give no matter what the situation, because even the worst circumstances cannot hinder their devotion to Jesus Christ.2 Deep translates the phrase kata bathos (lit., “according to the depth”). The corresponding English expression would be “extremely deep”; or in the vernacular, “the pits” or “rock bottom.” 2MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (278). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 3
High taxes, slavery, low economic status, and persecution had all reduced the Macedonian believers to abject poverty. Ptōcheia (poverty) describes those with almost nothing, forced to beg to survive3 THEY WERE GIVERS – THEY CARED ABOUT PEOPLE These guys were givers and takers.. --------THEY WERE NOT DOING THIS TO BE SEEN !!!!! REMEMBER THERE THIS ALL STARTED, DONT LET YOUR RIGHT HAND KNOW WHAT YOUR LEFT HAND IS DOING.. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The idea is not that they gave way over and above what they could afford, but the idea is that they knew what they could give, and gave a little more besides. of their own accord - authairetoi - self chosen, of one’s own accord. Paul hadn’t pressured them or twisted their arms to get them to give. They did it on their own. They were FREELY WILLING TO GIVE, they were not begged or manipulated - simply out of a love for GOD again we want to be part of the kingdom. God wants us to understand about giving. Giving is a huge topic in the bible, forms of this word is used some 1800 times in the Old testament and 400 times in the new4 Larry Burkett “Giving should be an outward, material expression of a deep spiritual commitment, an indication of a willing and obedient heart” Giving is simply a outward indicator of what is going on in a persons relationship to Jesus 3MacArthur, 4
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (278). Chicago: Moody Publishers.
David Hocking - passing the buck . pg3 4
David hocking said -( Passing the buck) “the matter of giving is a most serious Christian issue. many of us are having problems in our marriages and our families. We are struggling with our individual walk with the Lord over the issue of money and we don’t even know that’s the problem.” So again , when its all his, and I am living for Jesus , then giving is a natural part of who I am .
*** Giving is Sacrificial They gave ABOVE THERE ABILITY !!
and beyond their ability, (8:3b) The Macedonians gave according to what they had but in proportions that were sacrificial. Their giving was beyond what could reasonably be expected of such a poor congregation. Life was difficult for them; as noted in verse 2, they faced extreme poverty and persecution. Yet despite their desperate circumstances, they joyfully gave with no regard for themselves, compelled by the needs of the poor saints in Jerusalem ("/>cf. Heb. 13:16). They believed God’s promise to supply all their needs (Phil. 4:19) and refused to worry about them (Matt. 6:25–34), gladly placing themselves in deeper dependence on Him. Like David, who would not give the Lord something that cost him nothing (1 Chron. 21:24), and the poor widow, who gave all she had (Mark 12:42–44), the Macedonians gave with selfless abandon. 5
As we talk about Real giving must be sacrificial. The amount of the gift never matters so much as its cost to the giver, not the size of the gift, but the sacrifice. Real generosity gives until it hurts. For many of us it is a real question if ever our giving to God’s work is any sacrifice at all. Few people will do without their pleasures to give a little more to the work of God. It may well be a sign of the decadence of the church of the failure to our Christianity that gifts have to be coaxed out of church people, and that often they will not give at all unless they get something back in the way of entertainment or of goods. There can be few of us who read this story without shame. ---They did not make excuses , they gave when they did not have it. When things get hard the first thing we do is pull out tithe, why is that ?? "/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 5MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (280). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 5
Remember in Malachi
Malachi this book is written during a time that the captives are over the Jews have lost there enthusiasm for God. worship seemed routine and boring. the wealthy took advantage of the poor. the priests had taken Foreign wives, something that the Lord did not approve of. a time that the people took for granted there worship of God./
Malachi 1:6-8 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 “A son honors his father, And a servant his master. If then I am the Father, Where is My honor? And if I am a Master, Where is My reverence? Says the LORD of hosts To you priests who despise My name. Yet you say, ‘In what way have we despised Your name?’ 7 “You offer defiled food on My altar, But say, ‘In what way have we defiled You?’ By saying, ‘The table of the LORD is contemptible.’ 8 And when you offer the blind as a sacrifice, Is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, Is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?” Says the LORD of hosts. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------these guys were very disrespectful to God in the manner of offering the sacrifices the Leviticus law laid down they type of sacrifice and note what they were bringing. Deu, 15:21 no animal with a blemish could be offered to God, God wanted your best not your second best, try giving to your governors what you give to me where would you be. they would say well the cow is sick anyway here God this is yours. I’m afraid that many give to God this way, O here is what I have left, I guess I will give it to God. this is wrong. try giving that to the government what do you think he would do to you./ A loss of quality in your financial giving. If you gradually start withholding financial contributions to your church and other ministry-related causes, that is probably a sign of waning commitment. Just as a parent is worthy of respect and an employer is worthy of one’s best work, so God our Father and Master deserves our best offerings (Mal. 1:6–8). He is not pleased with lame efforts, weak excuses, or cheap gifts (1:7–11).6
What if we paid our taxes the way we tithe, may Christians would be in jail. How about our service to God.. what if we worked the way we service God.. show up late if we show up at all. Half heartily service..
6Word
in life study Bible. 1997, c1996 (electronic ed.) (Mal 1:6). Nashville: Thomas Nelson. 6
------------------------------Now it is interesting, that we are always shocked when the church is broken in two and someone takes something from the church. We think, “is there no fear of God in their hearts?” I mean, after all, this is the church; you're taking from the church. We have had our agape box broken into on many occasions. People stealing money out of the agape box. That's pretty low. I mean, I can understand them robbing a liquor store, but the church? But you know, the Lord asks, “will a man rob God?” And maybe He's asking some of you tonight. And God said, -You see, the Lord claims as belonging to Him a tenth of your increase. That was the requirement of the law: to bring a tenth of your increase unto the Lord. It belongs to Him. Actually, everything belongs to Him, but all He asks for is ten percent commission of all that he gives to you. That's not bad. And so they were withholding their tithes, that ten percent. “Tithe” means ten percent. And thus, as a result of it, He said, --
Malachi 3:8-10 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 “Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, ‘In what way have we robbed You?’ In tithes and offerings. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I believe this scripture is for today, will a man rob God you are robbing him if you do not tithe, ROB- To steal, deprive of something rightfully owned. can you steal from God.. yes
Will a man rob God? It seems crazy to think that a man could rob God. What could someone possibly steal from God? The LORD makes it clear - they robbed God by withholding their tithes and offerings. It’s an expression of astonishment: Will a man rob God? • • • •
• • • •
Astonishing because it is such a daring thing to do Astonishing because it is shamefully ungrateful Astonishing because it is senselessly self-destructive Astonishing because it will certainly be punished
TITHES AND OFFERINGSthere is a difference, the tithes are 10% of you increase,
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if is your first fruits, your best to God not your leftovers. I believe you right the tithe check before you write any other, this is your first fruits. Never your leftovers.. Can you borrow your tithe, Lev. 27:30-31, you will pay back 1/5 or 29% Leviticus 27:30-31 30 And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD’s. It is holy to the LORD. 31 If a man wants at all to redeem any of his tithes, he shall add one-fifth to it. iv. The Law of Moses had a detailed system of giving based on the tithe (Deuteronomy 14:22-29 is one passage describing this system). If you failed to pay your tithe, you were assessed a 20% penalty (Leviticus 5:14-16; 22:14; 27:31-32). Nevertheless, tithing predated the law (Genesis 14:18-20). -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 You
are cursed with a curse, For you have robbed Me, Even this whole nation. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------were do you bring it to the store house, the store house is the local church. that place you attend and are fed Gods word. I send my money to this ministry or that one. I believe this is not what is meant by bring to the store house, bring it into the store house, that one place. offerings are for the others.,/ a place in the temple to bring the grain. WHY- That there many be food in my house Tithing is Old testament: Goes back to Law, but if you note in
Jesus is dealing with the Pharisees and there hypocrisy, Matt. 23:23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for you pay tithe of mint and anise and Cummins, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law. Justice and mercy and faith. these you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone”
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they tithes there spices, do this but you forgot to do the most important., the practice was also going in the new testament church,
1 Cor. 16:2 “Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him that there be no gatherings when O come.” If you follow the early church in history you see that tithing and offerings were a common practice. I know a lot of pastor and the struggle they have over finances, -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------PROVE ME- this is the only place that we see God saying test him or prove him, you check it out if it is not so. if he will not bless you. NT- Give and it will be given unto you, you sow what you reap ect., this is not giving to get, but the promise is it may not be finical, some times it is but it many not be it may be blessing beyond you can even understand./ It is interesting to me that God only challenges us in one area to prove Him. Only one place does God challenge us to prove Him, and that's in our giving. Just prove me now, saith the Lord. See if I won't pour out unto you the best blessing, so great you won't have room to contain it. And this is what he will do.
In the context you are giving to God not to man, your responsibility is to give to God...../ REMEMBER NOTING IS OURS BACK TO 2 COR.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Can you imagine anybody now a days begging for the opportunity to give money away? These folks saw it as a privilege to give.
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When you ‘GET IT’ you want to give, you want to serve. Remember last week, WE GET TO SERVICE. This understanding that I am a stewart not a owner is so freeing, I want to give. When I see the results in a persons face I want to give .. *** I GET TO GIVE NOT HAVE TO
fellowship - koinonian - fellowship, communion, Contribution as outcome of fellowship. They wanted to “share” in this giving project. of the ministering - diakonias - the office and work of a deacon, service, ministry. Giving is one type of ministry. Robertson - Apparently Paul had been reluctant to press the Macedonians because of their manifest poverty. They demanded the right to have a share in it. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------***again when we give ourself to God first , then giving becomes a privilege by the will of God - thelematos - (from thelo, to will, be willing, wish, desire) will Before they gave any money, they first gave their hearts to the Lord, and they gave their hearts to Paul. This is what we stuck on , when we do this the rest becomes easy. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Apparently Titus had gotten the Corinthians started in collecting for this gift for Judea. ** make sure where you give there is accountability !!! There is many ministries that only a very little portion of what you give goes to what they say it does. Why do we support Compassion or OCC .. Even your church. We spend much time making sure what we do it right before God.
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When it comes to finances there HAS to be accountably when it is GODS money.. We have oversight by outside auditors. This year we have had two audits ,one from ECFA who is
ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible StewardshipTM. Founded in 1979, ECFA provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with established standards for financial accountability, fundraising and board governance. Members include Christian ministries, denominations, churches, educational institutions and other tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. Collectively, these organizations represent more than $15 billion in annual revenue. All our information is online , how much we brought in and how much goes back out and where it goes. And then a close audit of all our books. Confident that the Corinthians would follow the example of the Macedonians and submit to their pastors’ direction, Paul urged Titus that as he had previously made a beginning, so he would also complete in the Corinthians this gracious work of giving as well. As noted above, Titus had made a beginning of the work of collecting the Corinthians’ offering about a year earlier (2 Cor. 9:2). He had recently returned to Corinth bringing the severe letter, and Paul had urged him to help the Corinthians complete their giving. So Paul through his letters ("/>cf. 1 Cor. 16:2) and Titus through his visits had both informed the Corinthians about what they expected them to do.7
2 Corinthians 9
"/>cf. confer (Lat.), compare 7MacArthur,
J. (2003). 2 Corinthians (285). Chicago: Moody Publishers. 11
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 Now concerning the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you; -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Superfluous 4053.! περισσός pĕrissŏs, per-is-sos´; from 4012 (in the sense of beyond); superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by impl. excessive; adv. (with 1537) violently; neut. (as noun) preeminence:— exceeding abundantly above, more abundantly, advantage, exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more, superfluous, vehement [-ly].8 2 Corinthians 9:1 (NLT) 1 I really donʼt need to write to you about this ministry of giving for the believers in Jerusalem. The Corinthiansʼ need to complete what they had eagerly begun (8:6, 10) concerned Paul. He had not found it necessary to write about the need to give aid to Jerusalem Christians. The Corinthians had agreed enthusiastically (8:11) to be involved in this service (diakonias) to the saints (cf. 8:4; 9:12-13). They were eager to help (cf. 8:4), a fact that Paul had relayed to the Macedonians the year before, which in turn had spurred the Macedonians on (stirred … them to action). The difference between the Macedonians and the Corinthians, however, lay in their diligence in seeing the project through to completion. Slow starters, the Macedonians finished quickly. But the Corinthians, willing in spirit, needed help in disciplining the flesh (cf. Matt. 26:41; Rom. 6:19).9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------impl.
impl. = implied, impliedly, implication
adv.
adv. = adverb, adverbial, adverbially
neut.
neut. = neuter (gender)
8
Strong, J. (1997). The new Strong's dictionary of Hebrew and Greek words. Nashville: Thomas Nelson. cf.
confer, compare
cf.
confer, compare
cf.
confer, compare
9
Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (2 Co 9:1–2). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. 12
2 for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Corinthians had begun a year earlier to collect funds for Jerusalem. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3 Yet I have sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this respect, that, as I said, you may be ready; ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul had sent Titus to make sure that they were ready.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 lest if some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you!) should be ashamed of this confident boasting. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------That you would say yes we are going to do this or that and then not follow through. **** GIVING is to be honest, if you are going to give , then give it. Don't pull you tithe --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as a grudging obligation. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul uses an abundance of verbs here that have the preposition “before” (pro) tacked on the front. Lit. - “So I thought it necessary to encourage the brethren that they would go before to you and arrange beforehand your before-promised gift...” Paul’s trying to get the point across that they’re late with the gift. He’s rubbing it in their face. I also think it important to think here how Paul wanted the collection all taken care of before he got there. I don’t think it’s the pastor’s place to stand and watch over the people to make sure they give enough.
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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------There is a dynamic of living our life with open hands. Giving and being a giver. bountifully - lit. “blessingly” (eulogiais) Paul is using physical, agricultural principles that apply to spiritual things. You will reap proportionally to how much you have sown. (2Cor.9:6) Here in 2Cor., Paul is saying that the amount you sow will affect the amount you reap. If you plant two wheat kernels, don’t expect to reap ten acres of wheat. If you want to reap much from the Lord, then you need to give much. It’s much bigger than just money. How much of yourself are you giving to the Lord? Keep in mind, Paul is talking about money here. There is truth here. Remember the context, Paul is talking about taking up a collection for the poor in Jerusalem. The pitfall is when we try to take principles like this and use them in a fleshly way, like trying to become rich. (1 Tim 6:10 KJV) For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Back to our principle, it is important that we learn to not hold on to our money too tightly. The more you give to others, the more you’ll find others giving to you. If you are having a rough time financially, you may need to check and see if you are giving freely to others. That’s not the only possibility, there are many others (you lack selfcontrol, God is testing your faith...etc.). --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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** GIVING IS A ATTITUDE OF YOUR HEART
this is a attitude of the heart, understanding that all is his. our attitude. What you have purposed in your heart, I dont know who gives what, that is between you and God. Giving to God is a act of worship, we say thank you God for what you have done for me, I thank you. There for a long time we did not take a offering, and I really believe that God wanted us not to do that.. than it was said that “money at Calvary chapel is a necessary evil” Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Four words to circle here. This verse is the New Testament guide to giving. 1. purposeth – proeretai - perf.mid.ind. proaireo - to bring forth, forward; in mid., to take by choice, prefer, propose, to choose beforehand. Only here. Lit. “Let each one do just as he has chosen before and still desires to do...” The New Testament standard of giving is that of giving from your own free will. I think it’s also interesting to note that it’s what you have purposed in your heart, not your mind. It’s not giving what you “know you ought to give”, but it’s “giving what you feel is right”. God desires us to give from the heart, not necessarily the mind. ITS BETWEEN YOU AND GOD. However..
IF CHRISTIANS WOULD JUST TITHE A organization Called empty tomb did some research in Wheaten Illinois, did some calculations and found that if all Christian would just tithe. * every church facility in the world, * every church debt would be paid for in 2 years. there would be no debt, * every university, bible school, would be totally covered. * begin to feed every hungry person in the world, 15
if the Christians would just tithe./ in two years According to Newsweek, most church members give far less than 10%, most giving under 2 per cent. Not surprising is the fact that the poor give a far greater portion of their income than the rich. USA Today (Oct. 25, 1990) tells us that families earning less than $10,000 give 5.5 per cent of their income to charity (not necessarily to church). Families earning between $50,000 and $60,000 give only 1.7% of their earnings. 2. not grudgingly - lupes; pain of body or mind, grief, sorrow; the opposite of joy. We might call it a “pain in the pocketbook”. There is also an implied command here (use of me), “Do not give grudgingly”. It’s not the actual amount that causes some people pain, it’s the fact that they have to give up something of their own. Have you ever had a person give you a gift, then complain how much it hurts them to give it up? Just keep it! Giving grudgingly comes from pride and selfishness. When we think we have a right to keep all that God has given us for our own use, then we’re headed for “grudgingly”.
3. not of necessity - anagkes; Necessity, to be compelled, of necessity; force, violence. As if it were like pulling eye-teeth. Implied command here also. When the preacher says, “You must give or God’s work will stop”, then don’t! The idea of not giving under compulsion is to give spontaneously, without having to be told. A healthy church will beg to give, not be begged to give. Does this mean that anyone in ministry who asks for or even mentions money is a “false teacher”? No. The whole passage we’re dealing with is Paul asking the Corinthians to give. There is nothing wrong in asking people to give or in letting people know of needs. The problem is in the pressure tactics. giving out of fear. we are to reverence God. I have to give or God will punish me. never support a ministry that threatens you as a fund raisers. Proverbs 3:9-10
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9 Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; 10 So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine. God has given us promise after promise, yet in our materialistic would we are taught to take , take , and not give. You don’t have to Tithe it is a privilege, PRAISE REPORTS giving to impress others, this is what the Pharisees did why he said in
Matt. 6:3 “When you give alms do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” Not all giving consists of cash donation. you may donate your time or services or non cash gifts . you time ect./ why do we give, because there is love involved, in doing so I say that everything that I have all that I am I give you. not to man, when you give you do not give to a man or ministry you give to God. It is our responsibly to make sure that ministry is faithful in that money, you do not give to men!!!!!! 4. a cheerful giver - hilaron; cheerful, joyful (hilarious). Found only here in N.T. It can also be translated “glad”. Used of daylight, songs, messages, and especially people (in other sources). LXX uses it for “cheerful countenance” or the “favor” of a ruler. It is the opposite of grumbling. Isn’t it sad that in some churches the most somber point of the worship service is when the plate is passed during the offering. We GET to GIVE NOT have to. I get to be part of what God is doing
GIVING ON-LINE --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------A common worry we face when thinking about giving is, “Will there be enough for me?” The answer is yes! (Phil.4:10-19) What about me, will there be enough for ME.. PUT GOD FIRST. Put GOD TO THE TEST. 17
PUT GOD FIRST , HE WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU !!!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------9 As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------GOD SEES YOUR GIVING AND WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU !!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2 Corinthians 9:10–15 (NLT) 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ.14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you.15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!
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