Sermon on Sacrificial Giving

"The Heart of Sacrificial Giving"

Introduction:

Sacrificial giving can be defined as an act of givingup something one wants to keep, or givingbeyond one’s means. It puts a heavy toll on thegiver to seriously consider one’s decision. It couldmean giving up one’s time, effort, comfort, andfinances, or walking the full yard to render one’sexpertise, friendship, and service.

The basic principle of Christian Stewardship—that everything we have is a gift from God. Ingratitude for God’s generosity, we dedicate a portion ofthese gifts—time, talent and treasure—to further God’sKingdom. If we truly believe that God gives us all that we have, gratitude is one response. Trust is another. When we realize that God provides for us, we recognize that ourreal security lies in God. Our God, who has given us all,will take care of our lives

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I. The Example of the Poor Widow: Mark 12:41-44

In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus draws our attention to the sacrificial offering of a poor widow. Her two small coins spoke volumes, demonstrating that sacrificial giving is not about the amount but the heart behind the gift.

II. David's Offer to Build the Temple: 1 Chronicles 29:2-3

King David, despite his kingship, offered extravagantly for the construction of God's temple. His sacrificial giving reflected a heart that understood the honor of giving to the Lord.

III. The Generosity of the Corinthians Amid Poverty: 2 Corinthians 8:2

The Corinthians, in their poverty, exemplified sacrificial giving by contributing generously to support fellow believers. Their actions teach us that sacrificial giving is not restricted by financial status but driven by a heart compelled by love.

IV. Mary's Sacrifice in Anointing Jesus' Feet: John 12:3

Mary's act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume is a profound display of sacrificial love. Her offering was a significant sacrifice, revealing that true sacrificial giving often involves personal cost.

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V. Paul's Offering: An Example of Sacrificial Giving: Philippians 4:18

In Philippians 4:18, Paul acknowledges the sacrificial gift from the Philippians, highlighting the spiritual significance of their offering. This example reminds us that sacrificial giving transcends material provision and extends to spiritual support.

VI. The Call to Generosity in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: 2 Corinthians 9:6-7

The apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, encourages believers to give generously, emphasizing that the measure of our hearts in giving determines the impact of our generosity.

VII. The Purpose of Giving: Joy and Gratitude: 2 Corinthians 9:11

Sacrificial giving is not only an act of obedience but a source of joy and gratitude. As stated in 2 Corinthians 9:11, our giving leads to an overflow of thanksgiving to God.

VIII. The Challenge of Leaving Everything to Follow Jesus: Luke 18:22

In Luke 18:22, Jesus challenges a rich young ruler to sacrifice his possessions for the sake of following Him. This narrative underscores the call to prioritize eternal treasures over worldly possessions.

IX. The Reward of Generous Giving: Luke 6:38

Jesus promises in Luke 6:38 that generous giving will result in an overflowing measure of blessing. Sacrificial giving not only blesses others but positions us to receive God's abundant provision.

X. Donation as an Expression of Love and Commitment: 1 John 3:17-18

In 1 John 3:17-18, the apostle John emphasizes that sacrificial giving is an expression of genuine love and commitment to one another, mirroring the love of Christ.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our exploration of "The Heart of Sacrificial Giving," let us reflect on the examples set before us in God's Word. May the sacrificial love demonstrated by the poor widow, David, the Corinthians, Mary, Paul, and others inspire us to give not out of obligation but out of a heart overflowing with love for God and others. Let our sacrificial giving be a testimony of the immeasurable joy found in selfless acts of generosity, ultimately reflecting the sacrificial love of our Savior, Jesus Christ. May we go forth with hearts ready to sacrificially give, knowing that in doing so, we participate in God's transformative work in our lives and the lives of those we touch