1. Philippians

2. Narrative- I can make it through times of need, of being hungry, of having people mock me and my situation. I’m not in need during those times. I’m content in Jesus because I’ve learned this secret : I can do everything through Christ who supplies my strength

3.  Cultural Issue- Benefactors and beneficiaries  Benefactors gave because of what they could receive  Beneficiaries became less than and subject to their benefactors

4.  It’s not a gift if there’s an expectation of repayment

5.  Giving is partnership in ministry  Why?

6.  Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need- vs. 14-16

7.  (Giving is partnership in ministry)  Share- sugkoinoneo- with intimate fellowship through shared experiences  Troubles- thlipsis- crushed by intense pressure (extracting olive oil)

8.  Providence- God uses me to accomplish his purposes  Self-sufficiency- God doesn’t need me  Truth- God blesses me with the opportunity to follow, then blesses me for following

9.  Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account- vs. 17

10.  The Philippians were giving to themselves without knowing it. How?

11.  Why do people get angry when we talk about money?

12.  I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God- vs. 18  What type of language is that?

13.  What can I give God that he doesn’t already have?

14.  God doesn’t usually work in areas in which he is not welcome (Mark 6:5-6)  And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus- vs. 19

15.  Why did they have needs? How did the Philippians open themselves up to God’s care?

16.  A Christian’s finances are not a “closed system*”  5+2= 7  5+2=5,000 (r12) *Unless the Christian closes the door

17.  To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen...  “Look at how much I gave”  “How much do I have to give?”  “I don’t want to think about it right now”

18. ... Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send greetings. All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar's household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen- vs. 20-23

19. Takeaways  Am I upset right now? Why? What does that reveal about how I view money?  How much would I accept to never read my Bible or pray again?  How much would I accept to never see my spouse/kids again?

20. Takeaways  Have I rationalized my giving based upon my volunteering?  Is Layman a house or a hotel?  Have the things I bought delivered on the promise to make me happier?

21. Takeaways  Do I have the guts to pray and ask God what he wants me to do with his money- and then trust him and obey?