The Grace of Christian Giving - Part 1

The Grace of Christian Giving – Part 1
Sermon 22 in the 2 Corinthians Series

2 Corinthians 8 and 9 are taken up with the matter of a relief offering for the
Christians in Jerusalem who were apparently in distress and living in poverty.

1. About 25 principles of NT giving can be found in these two chapters.
2. There is a theological reality behind this particular offering

I. The History behind the Offering

A.  The Poverty of the Believers in Jerusalem

    1.  Pentecost – the Conversions -- Acts 4:1-4

    2.  Pentecost – the Influx – Acts 4:32-35

B.  A Practical Problem -- Acts 6:1-7
    

C.  Paul and the Jerusalem Saints

    1.  Paul's first visit – Galatians 1:11-18

    2. Paul's second visit – Acts 11:27-30

    3.  Paul's third visit – Galatians 2:1, 9-10

    4.  Paul's fourth visit -- Acts 18:21, 20:1-4

D.  Why was this Offerings so Important to Paul? -- Romans 15:27

    

II. Principles of NT Giving from 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 the Lord of our substance.