Good Morning!

“Christian Generosity”

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasures for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-18 NIV

What it Means to be GENEROUS A willingness to give or share – Acts 3:1-10; Luke 5:13 Generosity is as much about attitude as it is the amount – 2 Corinthians 9:7 It’s a readiness to give whenever a need arises – Acts 3:1-5

What it Means to be GENEROUS Providing more than is needed or expected This man was expecting a “few coins” – Acts 3:5-8 Generosity goes beyond the norm – 2 Corinthians 8:1-5

The Need for GENEROSITY To help the poor and needy – Deuteronomy 15:11 For some it’s a life or death situation – James 1:27 But it doesn’t stop there, there are lonely people, sick people, hurting people, lost people . . .

The Need for GENEROSITY To keep our selfishness and greed in check We tend to be selfish and greedy – 2 Timothy 3:1-5; Luke 12:13-21 When we are striving to be generous it takes the focus off ourselves – Matthew 6:19-24; 19:21-22

Learning to be GENEROUS Understand that your whole life is a gift from God Everything we have is a gift from God – James 1:17; Matthew 10:8 God blesses our lives so that we can be generous in helping others! – 2 Corinthians 9:8-12

Learning to be GENEROUS Remember we will all give an account one day! We will stand before the judgment seat of Christ – 1 Corinthians 5:10 I was hungry and you fed me, I was . . . – Matthew 25:31-46