The Measure of the Heart: A Sermon on Generosity
Scripture Reading: Luke 21:1-4
Introduction:
In the heart of the temple, amidst the clinking of coins and the grand gestures of the wealthy, Jesus sees something extraordinary. He observes a poor widow, giving her meager two mites, and declares her act as the greatest act of generosity. Today, we will explore this powerful story, examining the true meaning of generosity and its profound implications for our lives.
I. The Widow’s Two Mites: A Lesson in True Giving
A. Background: A Moment of Divine Observation:
• Jesus, during His final week before the crucifixion, is teaching within the temple courts. He intently "beholds" a scene and uses it to illustrate a profound spiritual truth.
• The "treasury," the place where people deposited their offerings, was located in the Court of Women and consisted of thirteen trumpet-shaped receptacles.
B. The Insignificance of the Gift, the Magnitude of the Sacrifice:
• The "two mites," the widow's offering, were the smallest of coins, representing a negligible sum in monetary terms. Yet, Jesus declares her gift greater than all the others combined.
• He contrasted the "superfluity" (excess) of the rich with the "want" (poverty) of the widow. While they gave from their abundance, she gave from her very livelihood.
• Jesus was impressed, not by the amount given, but by the measure of sacrifice. Hers was not a mere contribution; it was a total and complete sacrifice.
II. Generous People in the Bible: Living Examples of Sacrificial Giving
A. Qualities of Generous People:
• They sacrifice (Luke 21:4, John 3:16): Like the widow, true generosity involves giving up something of value.
• They give more than required (Exodus 36:6-7): They go above and beyond the minimum.
• They give themselves before their possessions (2 Corinthians 8:5): They understand that true generosity starts with a surrendered heart.
• They give more than just money (Luke 10:33-35): The Good Samaritan gave time, care, and resources.
• They give even when hurt (Genesis 42-45): Joseph forgave and provided for his brothers who had wronged him.
• They give even when their gift is small (John 6:9): The boy offered his meager lunch to feed the multitude.
• They help those who are different (Luke 7:5): The centurion’s generosity toward the Jews transcended cultural barriers.
• They give after being transformed (Luke 19:8): Zacchaeus demonstrated radical generosity after encountering Jesus.
• They give even when others don't (Philippians 4:15-16): The Philippians generously supported Paul's ministry.
• They give even when unseen (Luke 8:3): The women who supported Jesus' ministry provided for Him from their own resources.
• They give to strangers (Acts 28:7): Publius welcomed Paul and his shipwrecked companions.
• They give in response to a great cause (1 Chronicles 29, Matthew 27:60, Acts 4:37): They generously support the work of God.
III. Generosity in Action: Expressing God's Heart Through Our Lives
A. How Do We Show Generosity?
• Money and physical possessions: Sharing our material blessings.
• Time and talents: Investing our abilities in serving others.
• Compassion and forgiveness: Extending grace and mercy to those who need it.
• Self and service: Giving ourselves fully to the Lord and His work.
IV. The Why of Generosity: Obedience and Reward
A. It Is a Command (1 Timothy 6:18-19):
• "Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."
B. It Brings Blessing and Reward (Psalm 37:26, Proverbs 11:25, 22:9):
• Psalm 37:26: "They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be a blessing."
• Proverbs 11:25: "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."
• Proverbs 22:9: "The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor."
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Conclusion:
The story of the widow's two mites transcends monetary value. It speaks to the heart of true generosity: a heart that sacrifices, a heart that gives beyond measure, a heart that trusts in God's provision. Let us examine our own hearts, asking ourselves: do we give from our abundance, or from our very lives? Let us embrace a life of sacrificial generosity, knowing that our reward is not measured in earthly wealth, but in the eternal treasure laid up in heaven. Amen.
