1. Poverty in Jerusalem 1. Began early, Ac.2:44-45 2. Jewish persecution, Ac.8-9; Ja.2:1-6…; 5:1-6; Hb.10:32-34 3. Famine, Ac.11:27-30 –Jews of the Dispersion regularly sent contributions to countrymen in Judea –This contribution came from Gentiles Ro.15:26-27, promoted unity

2. Eight Words Contribution, 8:4; 9:13; Ro.15:26 Ministry, 8:4; 9:1, 12, 13 Grace, 8:4; 1 Co.16:3 Liberality, 8:20 Generous, 9:5 Service, 9:12 Collection, 1 Co.16:1 Alms, Ac.24:17

3. Outline of Chapter 9 1. Recalls past enthusiasm, 1-2 2. Sends brethren to encourage them, 3-5 3. The blessing of generous giving, 6-15 a. Benefits the giver, 8-11 b. Benefits the recipients, 12 c. Benefits the church, 13-14 Doxology, 15

4. Giving, 6-14 Giving is not loss, but sowing that brings a harvest [if done in right spirit], 6-7 God can provide means of giving, 8-11 Their giving will (11-14)... –relieve needs of poor saints –increase their thankfulness to God –encourage love for the givers

5. The attitude behind the gift, 9:5-7 Not all giving is a blessing (Mt.6) Not grudgingly (in stinginess) 5 Not from grief, 7 Not from necessity, 7 –Generous (opposite of greed) 5 –Individual, 7 –Voluntary; pre-planned, 7 –Cheerful, 7

6. “…sharing w. them and all” (2 Co.9:13) –Unlimited? [2 Th.3:10?] –Misappropriate funds? Context: Ro.15:26; 1 Co.16:1; 2 Co.8:4; 9:1, 12 Thanksgiving to God, 12 Glorify God, 13 Glorify God for their obedience, 13 Sharing, 13 [fellowship] Prayer for you, 14 Long for you…grace of God in you, 14