Why is it important to give "each according to his ability" as in Acts 11:29? Setting the scene: Acts 11:29 “So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea.” A principle woven through the whole Bible • Deuteronomy 16:17 — “Everyone must appear with a gift as he is able, according to the blessing the LORD your God has given you.” • 2 Corinthians 8:12 — “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.” • 1 Corinthians 16:2 — “Each of you is to set something aside and save up as he may prosper…” Why proportionate giving matters • It treats every believer as a vital part of Christ’s body, whether resources are great or small. • It invites all to participate without burdening anyone beyond what God has supplied. • It keeps the focus on obedience and love, not on equal amounts. Guarding hearts from pride or shame • Generous wealth-holders are protected from boasting; their gift is simply what God enabled. • Those with limited means are spared embarrassment; God values the heart, not the figure (Luke 21:3-4). Strengthening unity and love • Needs get met quickly because everyone can act immediately at his own level. • Mutual care deepens; the church in Antioch felt personally connected to Judean believers even across miles (Acts 11:30). Encouraging personal stewardship • Proportionate giving requires intentional budgeting: “set something aside” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • It trains believers to see income as a trust from God to be managed for His purposes (Proverbs 3:9-10). Demonstrating God’s justice and compassion • The pattern mirrors God’s own fairness: He never asks what He has not already supplied (2 Corinthians 8:14-15, citing Exodus 16:18). • Helping the vulnerable shows gospel love in action (1 John 3:17). Releasing joy and blessing • “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). When giving matches capacity, joy flourishes. • The promise follows: “And God is able to make all grace abound to you” (2 Corinthians 9:8). Practical take-aways • Review God’s provision regularly; adjust giving as He prospers you. • Give first, not last—proportionate, planned, and cheerful. • Trust that God knits the varied gifts of His people into one abundant answer for every need. |
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