How can we encourage others to "bring You gifts" in our church community? Key Verse “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and enter His courts.” (Psalm 96:8) The Pattern of Giving in Scripture • Wise men opened treasures and presented gifts to Jesus (Matthew 2:11). • Israel was called to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse” so that God’s house would be supplied (Malachi 3:10). • Early believers shared possessions so that needs were met (Acts 4:34-35). • Paul commended churches that gave “beyond their ability” and did so willingly (2 Corinthians 8:3-4). Why Our Gifts Matter • They honor the Lord first: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9). • They fuel ministry, meeting spiritual and practical needs in the body (Philippians 4:16-18). • They testify to God’s generosity: “Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:8). Practical Ways to Encourage Gifts in the Church Community • Tell God’s Story of Provision – Share testimonies of answered prayer and unexpected supply tied to faithful giving (Luke 6:38). • Teach the Whole Counsel of Scripture – Regularly open passages on stewardship, tithes, and offerings so everyone sees the biblical foundation. • Model Transparent Stewardship – Provide clear reports of how funds are used for ministry, missions, and mercy. • Celebrate Every Gift – Publicly thank God for both large and small offerings, highlighting the heart behind the gift (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Invite Participation, Not Pressure – Offer multiple, convenient ways to give—online, in-service, by mail—while emphasizing voluntary, joyful participation. • Highlight Eternal Impact – Link each ministry outcome to the offerings that made it possible, showing how earthly resources further heavenly work (Matthew 6:20). Modeling Generosity as Leaders • Give First and Consistently – Leaders set the tone by tithing or giving proportionately before asking others to act. • Live Simply – Exemplify contentment, proving that security rests in Christ, not possessions (1 Timothy 6:6-8). • Speak of Giving as Worship – Treat the offering moment as an act of reverence equal to singing or preaching. Keeping the Heart Right • Guard Against Pride – Remember the widow’s two small coins that outweighed larger sums because of her devotion (Luke 21:1-4). • Focus on God’s Faithfulness – Encourage believers to see giving as trusting the One who “supplies seed to the sower” (2 Corinthians 9:10). • Expect Spiritual Fruit – Gifts laid at Jesus’ feet cultivate unity, joy, and thanksgiving within the body (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). Conclusion As God’s people take Psalm 96:8 to heart—bringing offerings into His courts—He is glorified, needs are met, and the watching world sees tangible proof of the gospel’s power. |
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