In Giving, Sow Bountifully

Introduction

I.	The church is the “pillar and ground” or support of the truth.         I Tim. 3:15.
A. 	In previous lessons we have studied that the work of the church is evangelism, edification and benevolence.
B. 	Each of these activities must be supported by the contributions of the members of the body of Christ.
C. 	Each of us should evaluate our giving to accomplish the work we have to do.
III. 	In this lesson we shall consider some teaching concerning the work of giving.

Body

I. 	Giving is a matter of purpose and prosperity.  II Cor. 9:6-7; I Cor. 16:1-2.
A. 	Each person or each family must decided how much is appropriate according to personal or family prosperity.
1. 	Others cannot make this decision for you or your family.
2. 	The giving should be bountiful and only you can determine whether your giving is “sparingly” or “bountifully” done.
3. 	We should respond to our purpose in giving just as we do to our purpose to pay for a car or house we may have purchased through a loan.  I Cor. 16:1-2.
4. 	Giving for the Lord’s work is a spiritual activity and is one way that treasure can be laid up in heaven.  Matt. 6:19-21; I Tim. 6:17-19.
B. 	God promises to bless those who sow bountifully so our giving is a condition of our own prosperity.  II Cor. 9:8-11; Phil. 4:13-19; Prov. 10:3; 11:24-28.

II. 	The good examples of others should encourage our own giving.
A. 	The brethren in Macedonia are examples of those who gave beyound their abilitiy to do so.  II Cor. 8:1-5.
1. 	Even though they were in affliction and deep poverty, they gave beyond their “power” or “ability.”  Vss. 1-3.
2. 	They begged Paul to receive their gift.  Vs. 4.
3. 	The reason for their liberal giving is that they had first given themselves.  Vs. 5.
      B.  The poor widow is another example.  Mark 12:41-44.

Conclusion

I. 	In order to maintain the work the Compton Road Church is doing, our contributions must increase.  
II. 	If you or your family is able to give more, you are encouraged to do so in order that the work here can continue.
III. 	If the scripture taught us to give a specific percentage, giving might be easier for some, but this is not the case.
IV. 	We must give as we have prospered and according to purpose.
V. 	If you have not obeyed the gospel, that is your first need, and you are encouraged, as a believer, to repent and be baptized today.

Prepared by:
	David Arnold
	August 4, 1996