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Word & Deed, We are Stewards: The Macedonian Model
with Travis Aicklen
This sermon explores the topic of generosity and giving, drawing inspiration from the Macedonian church's example in 2 Corinthians 8. The message emphasizes that generosity is not about the amount given, but about the heart attitude behind it.
Key Points:
- Generosity is not an amount: The Macedonian church, despite their extreme poverty, gave generously out of their abundance of joy.
- Generosity is an opportunity, not an obligation: The Macedonians begged to be included in giving to the needs of the saints.
- Generosity is giving to the Lord: They gave themselves first to the Lord, and then to Paul and his ministry.
- Generosity is a response to grace: They understood the grace of Jesus, who became poor so that we might become rich.
Lessons from the Macedonian Model:
- Generosity is not about the amount: It's about a heart attitude of giving freely and cheerfully, regardless of our financial situation.
- Generosity is an opportunity: We should view giving as a privilege and a way to participate in God's work, not as a burden or a tax.
- Generosity is giving to the Lord: Our ultimate motivation for giving should be to honor God and express our love for Him.
- Generosity is a response to grace: We give out of gratitude for the grace we have received in Jesus Christ.
Principles of Giving:
- The principle of later and greater: We may have less in the short term, but God will multiply our generosity in the long run.
- Each of you can be generous: Everyone has the opportunity to give, regardless of their financial situation.
- Generous is not spontaneous or frivolous: It is a deliberate and thoughtful act of obedience and worship.
- God is able: Our starting point for generosity is trusting in God's ability to provide, not relying on our own resources.
The sermon concludes with a call to examine our hearts and respond to God's grace by giving generously and cheerfully. It also invites listeners to receive communion and to pray for freedom from shame and a greater understanding of God's generosity.
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