Living Abundantly
Pastor Jonathan Foster
September 18, 2016
1 Cor. 16:1-3; 2 Cor. 8:1-4; 2 Cor. 9:6-11
Many of us are going through difficult situations. During the storms of life, what in our faith do we
cling to? Jesus Christ and His righteousness. There’s a joy
that comes with that. It’s hard to put into words, but it’s
unquenchable and unstoppable.
How can we walk in an abundance of joy as a Christian,
even when we face struggles?
Take time to be quiet and spend time alone with the Lord.
Ps. 51:12
MESSAGE AIM:
For believers to live generous
and abundantly joyful lives
in the gospel.
1 Cor. 16:1-3
Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to
do. 2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may
prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come. 3 And when I arrive, I will send those whom
you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem.
How is the church to give?
We are to set aside a portion of our income each week to help ministries and suffering saints.
2 Cor. 8:1-4
We want you to know, brothers,[a] about the grace of God that has been given among the churches
of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have
overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can
testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor[b] of taking
part in the relief of the saints—
This was a financially struggling church that was filled with joy! They gave beyond their means of
their own accord. They begged to give. They were generous out of the compulsion of the Holy Spirit
not out of guilt or manipulation.
Lack of generosity is an indicator of the giving of yourself to the gospel.
What does God require of us?
Our heart, our self, our ALL. When we consider all that we have the opportunity to be a part of we
should be excited about giving!
Giving is one of the ways we prove our faith is genuine. Giving is not a command, but proof of your
faith.
Why do we have to prove our faith?
Without proof our faith is a dead faith.
Prove that your love is genuine.
How do we show our love toward God?
We prove our love toward Him if we keep His commands. Give of our self. Love and be generous to
others.
2 Cor. 9:7-11
7 Each
one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God
loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all
sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written,
“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
10 He
who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing
and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous
in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.
Many of us see our giving to the gospel as a type of bargain shopping where we are looking for the
best deal for the least price and effort. We want to give as little money and time as we can get away
with and still be ok with God. It shouldn’t be about how little you can give, but how can you be
bountiful.
Don’t give reluctantly nor under compulsion.
Consider how God has compelled you to give? Will you be obedient?
If you and God have decided on an amount, it’s up to Him to provide it, but for you to obey and give.
Sow your seeds bountifully, and give thanksgiving to the Lord.
How can you tell if you are being fruitful and generous?
Those around you will become thankful and generous.
Application of giving
Examine whether you believe God or not
Examine whether or not you believe in our mission as a church
If you can answer yes to both of these, then consider how you can prove your love and faith