TITLE: GIVING TO GOD
LESSON: SIX
INTRODUCTION: God has given to believers eternal life. It is our wonderful privilege and responsibility to give some things to Him, also. These things are part of what Jesus refers to in the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20.
Often the second part of the Great Commission is overlooked or given little attention or emphasis. This should not be so. Until a person is saved, becoming saved is the most important thing in the world. Once saved, then the second part of the Great Commission becomes the most important thing in the world to the born again Christian. Giving is one of those responsibilities of the new believer.
1. Admittedly, giving is sometimes a controversial subject and duty in Christianity for various reasons. It also is misunderstood by Christians many times.
We all need to understand that God does not need our money--- and after all, everything belongs to Him anyway.
It is wonderful that He so mercifully gives to us of His own, and then blesses us as we give only a portion of it back to Him!
This lesson will deal with the believer's responsibility in giving, or stewardship, of his life and his resources.
I. Before any giving can be truly done, a Christian must be willing to give himself, first and foremost.
A. God bought every child of His at a tremendous price, His precious blood! *1 Corinthians 6:19-20
B. God commands the believer to present his/her body, as a living sacrifice, to Him. *Romans 12:1
C. All giving to God, including love offerings, should be with a willing mind and a joyful heart. *2 Corinthians 8:3-5, 12.
II. Just what is the reason for the Christian to give to God?
A. For one thing, giving shows the sincerity of the believer's love for the Lord Jesus Christ. *2 Corinthians 8:8
B. Giving develops and reveals and attitude of grace. *2 Corinthians 8:5,7; 9:8.
C. Christians invest in eternal riches. It takes the mind off earthly riches, which fade away eventually.
*Philippians 4:17; Matthew 6:19-21.
D. The individual believer benefits the most from his giving. *Acts 20:35
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