By a show of hands, who is blessed? It’s not because Jesus likes you more.
We are blessed in order to be a blessing!
The history of giving in the Old Testament
Genesis 28:22, Leviticus 27:30-32, Deuteronomy 14:22, Nehemiah 10:37, Malachi 3:10
What do you thank God for? What do you want God’s blessings on?
Why give?
It is acknowledging that God owns it all – an act of stewardship
Proverbs 3:9, Haggai 2:8, James 1:17
It meets the needs of others and brings people to Jesus – an act of sacrifice
– Luke 16:1-9 – Use your temporary resources to help others and you’ll be building toward eternity!
– The 1st century church found ways to make money for the purpose of giving! They sold their stuff! Acts 2:44-45, 4:34-35
– And in Macedonia they begged to give! 2 Corinthians 8:1-4
– Giving according to your increase is important! Acts 11:29, 2 Corinthians 8:3, 1 Corinthians 16:12, Matthew 25:15, Deuteronomy 16:17, Ezra 2:68-69
It is honoring God as your source – an act of worship
1 Chronicles 29:14
It is involving God in your future success – an act of investment
Luke 6:38
It is choosing to be at least obedient, or better yet, passionate – an act of love
I Corinthians 9:17
“There is no merit in yielding to a must.”
The Pulpit Commentary
Church 29:11 