The Grace of Christian Giving - Part 2

The Grace of Christian Giving – Part 2
Sermon 23 in the 2 Corinthians Series

2 Corinthians 8:1-5

1. The greatest generosity is often displayed by those who have the least to give.
2. The Christian gives freely and with joy.
3. We give ourselves to God, before we give of our substance.

2 Corinthians 8:6-7

4. The Grace of Christian giving is comparable to other Christian graces.

Paul mentions 3 categories of gifts that were strengths in Corinth:
Faith, speech, knowledge
1 Cor. 8:1-3
They also abounded in diligence – this is a complement
And love for Paul – this shows the reconciliation that had taken place.

5. We must not only be willing to give – we must actually give. v. 6, 10-12

   They had begun well, they now need TO COMPLETE what they had begun.
   1 Corinthians 16:1-2

6. Christ is the greatest example of giving. v. 9

   Christ was The Gift and The Giver. Philippians 2:5-8

2 Corinthians 8:13-15

7. There is a special obligation resting on the members of Christ to relieve
   the needs of their fellow-believers.

Galatians 6:10

8. We do not give so that others can simply be irresponsible.

2 Thess. 3:6-12