Generosity

Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Acts 4:32-37; Psalm 112:9; Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 25:14-30

Intro: Welcome to this sermon focusing on generosity. While 'giving' is an act, 'generosity' is an attitude, a trajectory reflecting God's heart. Even amidst global needs (like the Turkey earthquake mentioned), reflecting on God's provision and our response is vital. We'll explore God's generosity equation primarily through 2 Corinthians 9, where Paul urges the affluent Corinthians to generously support suffering believers in Jerusalem.

Key Points:

1. God's Multiplication Principle (2 Cor 9:6, 8, 10): Paul uses a farming analogy: "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." God provides the "seed" (resources) and promises to "supply and multiply" it as we sow generously, enabling us to "abound in every good work." Don't fear lacking resources; trust the Supplier.
2. The Heart of the Giver (2 Cor 9:7): "God loves a cheerful giver," one who gives as "decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion." God desires our hearts, and our approach to resources reveals our heart's posture. Generosity isn't about obligation but willing participation.
3. Enriched to Be Generous (2 Cor 9:11): God enriches us "in every way to be generous in every way." The goal isn't personal accumulation but becoming a greater conduit for God's blessings, leading ultimately to thanksgiving to God. This aligns with the Parable of Talents: faithfulness with little leads to responsibility over much.
4. Hurdles to Generosity:
   • Sacrifice & Scarcity: Generosity often costs us something and requires battling a scarcity mentality fueled by consumer culture.
   • Faith Required: It takes faith to release what we hold, trusting God's promise of a "later and greater" return (spiritual or otherwise).
   • Wrong Question: Asking "How much must I give?" focuses on obligation. Asking "How much do I need to keep?" shifts focus to trusting God and participating in His work.
5. The Community Catapult (Acts 4:32-37): Generosity flourishes in community. The early church shared resources radically, meeting needs collectively. Individuals like Barnabas made significant sacrifices, which catapulted them into greater ministry and impact.

Conclusion: Generosity is a heart posture reflecting our generous God. It operates on His principle of multiplication – He supplies, we sow cheerfully, He multiplies so we can be even more generous, resulting in thanksgiving to Him. Overcoming fear and scarcity requires faith, shifting our questions, and engaging in community.

Call to Action: Begin with thanksgiving for God's provision. Pray against the scarcity mindset. Ask God, "How much do I need to keep?" Meditate on His promises in 2 Corinthians 9 this week. Look for ways to actively practice generosity with your time, talents, and treasure, trusting it's a springboard, not just a sacrifice. Let generosity become a lifestyle.

radiantvisalia.com
Generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-11)
with Gunnar Avinelis