Primary Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:1-15
BIG IDEA: Generosity with resources is the norm for Christians.
Message Focus: Paul invited the Corinthian Christians to participate in giving financially to support the work of sharing the gospel. “I am not commanding you…” (v8). This is generosity that is motivated by God’s generosity to us through Jesus. This is an opportunity to contrast legalistic giving against generosity that is led by truth and the Holy Spirit. We can also provide simple, thoughtful, and practical steps of generosity for people to engage in.
Prompting Questions: What end goal(s) did Paul have in mind as he invited the Corinthians into generosity? What are barriers to generosity for Christians today? How might you counsel a believer who has never given financially to gospel ministry?
Cross References: Isaiah 32:8; Genesis 14:20, John 3:16