Introduction

The concept of "Sharing the Gift" in Christian theology is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, emphasizing the importance of spreading the message of the Gospel and the love of Christ to others. This entry explores the biblical foundation for sharing the gift of salvation, spiritual gifts, and material blessings, as well as the responsibilities and motivations for believers to engage in this practice.

Biblical Foundation

1. The Great Commission: One of the most direct commands for sharing the gift of the Gospel is found in the Great Commission. Jesus instructs His disciples, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). This mandate underscores the responsibility of believers to share the message of salvation with the world.

2. The Gift of Salvation: The Apostle Paul emphasizes the grace of God as a gift that must be shared. In Ephesians 2:8-9 , he writes, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Believers are called to share this gift of grace, recognizing that it is not earned but freely given by God.

3. Spiritual Gifts: The New Testament teaches that spiritual gifts are given to believers for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom. In 1 Peter 4:10 , it is written, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." Sharing spiritual gifts involves using one's talents and abilities to serve others and glorify God.

4. Material Blessings: The Bible also addresses the sharing of material blessings. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul encourages generosity, stating, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." Sharing material resources is an expression of love and obedience to God's command to care for those in need.

Responsibilities and Motivations

1. Love and Compassion: The primary motivation for sharing the gift is love. Jesus taught that the greatest commandments are to love God and love one's neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). Sharing the gift of the Gospel and other blessings is an act of love and compassion, reflecting the character of Christ.

2. Obedience to Christ: Believers are called to obey Christ's commands, including the directive to share the Gospel. In John 14:15 , Jesus says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience to Christ involves actively participating in His mission to reach the lost.

3. Building the Body of Christ: Sharing spiritual gifts and resources contributes to the growth and unity of the church. Ephesians 4:12 states that spiritual gifts are given "to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ." By sharing these gifts, believers strengthen the church and advance its mission.

4. Eternal Perspective: The Bible encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective, recognizing that earthly possessions and achievements are temporary. In Matthew 6:19-20 , Jesus advises, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." Sharing the gift aligns with this eternal perspective, focusing on the lasting impact of spiritual investments.

Conclusion

The biblical mandate to share the gift encompasses the sharing of the Gospel, spiritual gifts, and material blessings. Motivated by love, obedience, and an eternal perspective, believers are called to actively participate in God's redemptive work, using their resources and talents to bless others and glorify God.