AM Scripture Reading: Acts 20.32-38

This Morning’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

The Spirit of Giving

Acts 20.35

Introduction:

1. Paul reaffirmed his relationship with the church in Ephesus and its eldership. (Acts 20.17-38)

2. He reserved the simple, but profound, words of Jesus to conclude his exhortation: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35).

3. The Spirit of Giving has numerous qualities & blessings…

I. The Spirit of Giving Is First Thankful

1. “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9.15).

2. Truly thankful people are the most giving. (Psa. 107.21-22)

II. The Spirit of Giving Is Sacrificial

1. God’s gift of Jesus epitomizes the spirit of giving. (John 3.16; cf., Rom. 5.6-8)

2. It is one thing to give out of prosperity; it is another to give out of poverty. (2 Cor. 8.1-5; cf., 2 Cor. 9.6)

III. The Spirit of Giving Is Timely

3. So much of life is about timing. (Gal. 6.10; cf., 1 Cor. 16.1-2; 2 Cor. 9.7)

4. It is often spontaneous. (James 4.17; 1 Tim. 6.17-19)

IV. The Spirit of Giving Is Joyful

1. “Not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9.7). [Hilaros: “merry; prompt or willing.”]

2. The joy of giving is prompted by love. (1 Cor.13.3; 1 Pet. 4.9)

V. The Spirit of Giving Is Rewarding

1. Acts 20.35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

2. God rewards those who possess and practice the “spirit of giving.” (Prov. 11.25; 22.9; 2 Cor. 9.8)

Conclusion: Seneca said, “We should give as we receive, cheerfully, quickly, and without hesitation; for there is no benefit that sticks to the fingers.”