Want Proof?
I love this passage where Paul tells the Corinthians he is sending someone to make sure the offering they promised was going to be ready. It would be embarrassing for him and the Corinthians if Paul made a big deal about their offering for the Jews in Jerusalem and then he got there and it wasn't ready. Paul doesn't beat them up - but reminds them that this is a faith thing and by giving generously you are sowing seed into a spiritual harvest and God will take care of making sure the sower benefits. You cant outgive God. But he doesn't want your gift to be a burden or given begrudgingly. He wants a cheerful giver.
The part of this passage that grips me is he says that giving is "proof" of something:
13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ.
Its proof of your obedience to the Gospel. You cannot call yourself a follower of Christ and not give generously. We can get wrapped around the axle about percentages, tithes, offerings, etc. This is not about that. For some people 10% is too little - because they have so much. That would not be generous. For some people - they have little so they hoard what they have - and dont give anything. That is not generous either. In Jesus eyes those who gave the most were those who simply trusted him with all they had. How generous are you with the resources God has given to you? Small or large doesnt matter. How generous are you? Generous giving to the work of God PROVES our obedience to the gospel. How obedient are we to the gospel?
Created over 2 years ago
