2 Corinthians 8:1-15 “It’s the thought that counts” (or is it?)

Overview Background The gift of generosity Bringing our good intentions into reality The purpose of our generosity So what?

Background The believers in Jerusalem were suffering –Famine and persecution Paul had been arranging a collection Paul had raised this with them (1 Cor 16) It would appear that this practice had been neglected Notice: –Paul’s gentleness in raising this –Paul’s patience with them

The gift of generosity Generosity is a gift from God (Rom 12:8) Every believer should give (1 Cor 16:2) The example of the Macedonians –Paul boasts about the Macedonians too –Grace given by God –Severe trials and extreme poverty –Overflowing joy and rich generosity A practical example of heavenly perspective

The gift of generosity They gave according to and beyond their ability –1 Corinthians 16 & Mark 12:41-43 They gave willingly They regarded it a privilege to give They first gave themselves to God The heart matters

From Good intention to reality They had begun this good work They needed to take action & actually do it Excel in this grace as you do in every other gift –(faith, speech, knowledge, complete earnestness, love for us) Paul is clear that this is not a command –Test of our love –following Christ’s example Paul reminds them of their earlier zeal Without willingness, our gift is not acceptable Give according to what you have

The purpose of generosity Paul did not want them to place themselves in need equality (or fairness) This was not welfare (2 Thess 3:10) Helping each other when we need it –This is not communism but community The principle established in the Old Testament (Manna)

So what? Do we have a concern for believers world-wide? Do we get distracted from good works? How do we challenge those who have lost their focus? –Are we gentle? Do we avoid the issue? Do we look to and follow good examples? Do we see generosity as a gift from God Do we give willingly as an expression of joy & love? Do we regard it a privilege to be able to give? Do we give our whole lives to God Do we regard this as being as important as other gifts? Are our hearts right in this matter? Do we see our responsibilities correctly? –To help others rather than being a burden to them?