WEEKLY LESSON WEEK OF: 6/19/16 MEMORY VERSE: “And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground, nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,” Says the Lord of hosts. “And all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a delightful land,” Says the Lord of hosts.” Malachi 3:11‐12 (NKJV) ***Remember to listen to this week’s sermon, review the Sermon Notes Sheet and complete the discussion questions before attending your Connection Group. INTRODUCTION: The very first principle you must grasp, if you are to understand God’s financial plan, is the principle of firstfruits. It can also be called the principle of the firstborn or the tithe. The first belongs to God. We find this principle all through God’s Word. We can give God the first of our time. We can give Him the first of our finances. That’s what tithing really is—giving our first to God. It’s saying, “God, I have a stack of bills, but I’m going to give to You first and trust You to meet my needs with the leftovers.” In this four‐week series, "Multiply", we will learn principles from God’s Word that will help lead you toward a healthy financial life. OPENING DISCUSSION QUESTION What was most helpful, encouraging, or challenging from this week’s sermon?
GROUP LESSON DISCUSSION 1.
Is God truly first in your life? If not, what are you going to do about that question this week?
What are some areas where you see that you haven’t put God first?
2.
With your Bible or your Bible App, read Proverbs 3:9‐10. What does tithing currently look like for you?
With your Bible or your Bible App, read Malachi 3:8‐12. Have you experienced unexpected blessings as a result of your tithing? If so, what are they?
4.
Have you seen God rebuke the devourer because of faithfully giving tithes and offerings? If so, what are they?
What things might you have lost because you did not give to God first?
5.
What kind of legacy could you leave for your family and those you influence through your example of tithing?
What steps will you take to ensure you give to God first and make Him first in every area of life?
next steps As you take steps to ensure that God is first in every area of your life and that you’re in position for unexpected blessings read the following Bible passages this week: Day 1: Exodus 13:1‐16 Day 2: Proverbs 3:9‐10 Day 3: Leviticus 27:30‐34 Day 4: Genesis 4:3‐5 Day 5: 1 Corinthians 16:1‐4 Day 6: Malachi 3:6‐12 Day 7: Matthew 6:33