In what ways can we practice the principle of sharing in our church? Scene in Luke 3:10 “The crowds asked him, ‘What then shall we do?’ ” (Luke 3:10) The people surrounding John the Baptist sensed that genuine repentance required visible action. They wanted to know how to live out their changed hearts. John’s Immediate Answer “John replied, ‘Whoever has two tunics must share with him who has none, and whoever has food must do the same.’ ” (Luke 3:11) Real repentance blossoms into practical generosity. The instruction is simple: if God has given you more than you need, use the extra to meet another believer’s need. Practical Ways to Share in Our Church Family • Meet material needs – Keep a discreet “blessing pantry” or clothing closet at church for anyone who may quietly take what is required. – Organize grocery or gas-card drives so families can receive help without embarrassment. – Contribute to a benevolence fund overseen by trustworthy leaders (cf. Acts 4:34-35). • Serve with skills and time – Offer professional expertise—plumbing, legal advice, tutoring—free of charge to members who cannot afford it. – Rotate child-care for single parents so they can attend Bible study or simply rest (Galatians 6:10). – Give rides to medical appointments or Sunday services for seniors and those without transportation. • Share homes and hospitality – Host visiting missionaries or believers displaced by emergencies (Romans 12:13; 1 Peter 4:9). – Designate open-table evenings where anyone from the congregation can drop by for dinner. • Bear one another’s burdens spiritually – Set aside regular moments after worship to pray personally with anyone carrying heavy concerns (James 5:16). – Send timely Scripture-filled notes, texts, or voice messages that speak life into weary hearts (Hebrews 3:13). Biblical Snapshots That Inspire • Acts 2:44-45—Early believers “had everything in common” and nobody went without. • 2 Corinthians 8:1-5—Macedonian churches gave “beyond their ability” out of deep joy. • 1 John 3:16-18—Love is proven by laying down life and sharing worldly goods. • James 2:15-16—Words of blessing ring hollow when needs stay unmet. Guarding the Heart While We Give • Motive matters: “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Keep generosity quiet when possible: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Matthew 6:3) God’s Promises to the Generous • “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38) • “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Proverbs 11:25) • “My God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) Stepping Into Action This Week • Notice one tangible need in the congregation and quietly fill it. • Set aside a specific percentage or amount of each paycheck expressly for helping fellow believers. • Invite someone new to share a meal at your table, listening for unspoken needs. • Pair up with another member to visit a shut-in, bringing encouragement and practical help. As the crowd learned from John, sharing is not an optional add-on but a primary fruit of repentance. Embracing this principle knits the church together and paints a living picture of the gospel we proclaim. |
    |