The Grace of Liberality Part 2

The Grace of Liberality Liberality means: “generous; openhandedness”. Synonyms to the word are “kindness” or “charity”. Today’s lesson will focus on the aspect of GIVING. Our eternal salvation is involved in our giving and using our material goods in a proper way.

The basis of giving is one’s love and devotion to God. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5; Consider the Christians in Macedonia. Their gift was offered in faith. “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.” (1 Tim 6:17 NKJV) Matthew 6:24-31; We must have the type of faith that depends upon God to sustain our needs. Luke 21:1-4; The widow gave out of her poverty & trusted in God to supply all of her needs. 2 Corinthians 8:8, 24; The testing and proving of faith and sincerity…

“Fellowship” in carrying out responsibility God has charged for the local church Acts 2:40-42; 2 Corinthians 8:4 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; “each one of you” According to ability, 2 Corinthians 8:12; Acts 11:29. We all have different ability, Matthew 25:14-15. We do not all have same ability, yet all are to share, 2 Corinthians 8:12-13.

The New Testament commands us to give liberally he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:8 (NKJV) the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:8 (ESV) 2 Corinthians 8:7; 9:6

Why do men not give liberally? Lack of teaching on the subject. Selfishness & personal pleasure (2 Timothy 3:1-4). Poor Management (Ephesians 4:28). Stinginess and the love of money (1 Timothy 6:1-10). False pride and extravagance. Lack of love for God (Malachi 1:8, 3:8).

Consequences of failing to give liberally The church is robbed of its progress. Preachers are robbed of adequate support, 1 Cor. 9:9-14. We rob ourselves, Acts 20:35. We rob God, Malachi 3:8.

The Grace of liberality We studied passages that confirm… The basis of one’s giving is love and devotion to God. We have “fellowship” with each other in carrying out the responsibility God has charged for the local church. The New Testament commands us to give liberally.

The Grace of liberality We’ve also studied from God’s Word… Why men typically do not give as much we should. Consequences of failing to give liberally. Do not allow improper giving to affect your salvation. (Give liberally)