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Generosity (Acts 11:27-30)
Scripture References: Acts 11:27-30, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Luke 21:1-4, Ephesians 2:11-22
Intro:
- Highlighting the admirable qualities of the Antioch church: evangelistic boldness, multi-ethnicity, generosity, spiritual disciplines, and sending leaders.
- Focus on their practical generosity, specifically their financial support for the church in Judea.
- Importance of personal conviction and action in giving.
Key Points:
- Generosity Defined:
- Antioch's generosity was marked by each person giving, not just a few.
- Emphasis on proportionate giving: according to their ability.
- Giving as a priority, not an afterthought.
- Jesus's example of the widow's mite: generosity is about heart, not amount.
- Principles of Giving:
- Decision: Giving should be a deliberate, heart-driven choice (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- Willingness: Avoid reluctant or compelled giving.
- Faith: Giving in response to God's prompting, even into an uncertain future.
- Wisdom: Giving to trusted leaders and organizations.
- The Famine and the Offering:
- Agabus's prophecy of a severe famine across the Roman world (Acts 11:28).
- The Antioch church's practical response: collecting and sending aid to Judea.
- The significance of their action: aiding their brothers and sisters in a time of need.
- The importance of responding to present needs.
- Trusted Leaders: Paul and Barnabas:
- Paul's dedication to reconciling Jewish and Gentile believers.
- Barnabas's reputation for generosity and encouragement.
- Their trustworthiness: their commitment to God's mission, not personal gain.
- God's Provision:
- God multiplies what we give in faith.
- God's promise to supply and increase our harvest (2 Corinthians 9:10).
- God's character as a giver, exemplified by Jesus's sacrifice.
- Unity through Giving:
- Paul’s teaching in Ephesians about the dividing walls being broken down, and the unity of believers.
- Giving as an act of unity and reconciliation.
Conclusion:
- The Antioch church's example challenges us to be generous in practical ways.
- Giving is an act of faith, obedience, and love.
- God uses our generosity to further His mission and build His church.
Call to Action:
- Reflect on your own giving: is it a priority, proportionate, and from the heart?
- Identify areas of need (famine) where you can give, both personally and corporately.
- Give wisely, to trusted leaders and organizations.
- Trust God to multiply your giving and provide for your needs.
- Participate in communion, remembering Jesus's ultimate act of generosity.
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