Radiant Church Visalia

Antioch: Generosity

Travis Aicklen

radiantvisalia.com
Generosity (Acts 11:27-30)

Scripture References: Acts 11:27-30, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Luke 21:1-4, Ephesians 2:11-22

Intro:

  • Highlighting the admirable qualities of the Antioch church: evangelistic boldness, multi-ethnicity, generosity, spiritual disciplines, and sending leaders.
  • Focus on their practical generosity, specifically their financial support for the church in Judea.
  • Importance of personal conviction and action in giving.

Key Points:

  • Generosity Defined:
    • Antioch's generosity was marked by each person giving, not just a few.
    • Emphasis on proportionate giving: according to their ability.
    • Giving as a priority, not an afterthought.
    • Jesus's example of the widow's mite: generosity is about heart, not amount.
  • Principles of Giving:
    • Decision: Giving should be a deliberate, heart-driven choice (2 Corinthians 9:7).
    • Willingness: Avoid reluctant or compelled giving.
    • Faith: Giving in response to God's prompting, even into an uncertain future.
    • Wisdom: Giving to trusted leaders and organizations.
  • The Famine and the Offering:
    • Agabus's prophecy of a severe famine across the Roman world (Acts 11:28).
    • The Antioch church's practical response: collecting and sending aid to Judea.
    • The significance of their action: aiding their brothers and sisters in a time of need.
    • The importance of responding to present needs.
  • Trusted Leaders: Paul and Barnabas:
    • Paul's dedication to reconciling Jewish and Gentile believers.
    • Barnabas's reputation for generosity and encouragement.
    • Their trustworthiness: their commitment to God's mission, not personal gain.
  • God's Provision:
    • God multiplies what we give in faith.
    • God's promise to supply and increase our harvest (2 Corinthians 9:10).
    • God's character as a giver, exemplified by Jesus's sacrifice.
  • Unity through Giving:
    • Paul’s teaching in Ephesians about the dividing walls being broken down, and the unity of believers.
    • Giving as an act of unity and reconciliation.

Conclusion:

  • The Antioch church's example challenges us to be generous in practical ways.
  • Giving is an act of faith, obedience, and love.
  • God uses our generosity to further His mission and build His church.

Call to Action:

  • Reflect on your own giving: is it a priority, proportionate, and from the heart?
  • Identify areas of need (famine) where you can give, both personally and corporately.
  • Give wisely, to trusted leaders and organizations.
  • Trust God to multiply your giving and provide for your needs.
  • Participate in communion, remembering Jesus's ultimate act of generosity.

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