AM Sermon 12/23/12: The Spirit of Giving
AM Scripture Reading: Acts 20.32-38
This Morning’s Sermon:
Brent T. Willey
The Spirit of Giving
Acts 20.35
Introduction:
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Paul reaffirmed his relationship with the church in Ephesus and its eldership. (Acts 20.17-38)
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He reserved the simple, but profound, words of Jesus to conclude his exhortation: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35).
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The Spirit of Giving has numerous qualities & blessings…
I. The Spirit of Giving Is First Thankful
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“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9.15).
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Truly thankful people are the most giving. (Psa. 107.21-22)
II. The Spirit of Giving Is Sacrificial
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God’s gift of Jesus epitomizes the spirit of giving. (John 3.16; cf., Rom. 5.6-8)
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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
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So much of life is about timing. (Gal. 6.10; cf., 1 Cor. 16.1-2; 2 Cor. 9.7)
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It is often spontaneous. (James 4.17; 1 Tim. 6.17-19)
IV. The Spirit of Giving Is Joyful
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“Not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9.7). [Hilaros: “merry; prompt or willing.”]
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The joy of giving is prompted by love. (1 Cor.13.3; 1 Pet. 4.9)
V. The Spirit of Giving Is Rewarding
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Acts 20.35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
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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.”
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