Embracing Radical Generosity in Stewardship
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Fellowship. Today, we delve into the theme of stewardship and generosity, focusing on how we can love the Lord with our resources. Our church has always been known for its generosity, but there are still many who struggle with giving regularly. This is a concern for spiritual growth. Our goal today is to understand what it means to be a generous people, especially in relation to money, and to leave here in a state of grace and a healthy fear of the Lord.
We begin by looking at the early church in Acts 4:32-37, where radical generosity was the norm. The early Christians shared everything they had, and this unity and generosity brought great grace upon them. Generosity is not transactional; it’s about recognizing and investing in the value and dignity of others. This kind of giving fosters unity and harmony within the church.
However, we also see a sobering example in Acts 5:1-11 with Ananias and Sapphira, who lied about their giving and faced severe consequences. Their story teaches us that God takes our actions seriously, especially when it comes to deceit and hypocrisy. Their sin was not in withholding money but in pretending to be more generous than they were, seeking prestige rather than genuine unity.
Fear of the Lord is a complex but necessary aspect of our faith. While we are often told not to fear, there is a kind of fear that is appropriate—a fear that recognizes God’s greatness and His intolerance for sin. This fear guides us to live in step with God, not against Him.
Generosity should not be aspirational or sporadic but deliberate and progressive. It’s not enough to feel generous; we must act on it regularly and intentionally. Whether through tithing or other means, our giving should reflect a disciplined lifestyle. For some, 10% may be a starting point, while for others, it may be a goal to work towards progressively.
In conclusion, our relationship with money can either delude us into thinking we are self-sufficient or remind us of our dependence on God. Radical generosity is a reflection of God’s own character and brings us into a state of grace and unity. Let’s strive to be a church marked by deliberate, consistent, and progressive generosity.
### Key Takeaways
1. Generosity as Recognition, Not Transaction: Generosity is not about exchanging value but recognizing and investing in the value and dignity of others. This kind of giving fosters unity and harmony within the church, reflecting God's own generous nature. [06:33]
2. The Seriousness of Deceit in Giving: The story of Ananias and Sapphira teaches us that God takes our actions seriously, especially when it comes to deceit and hypocrisy. Their sin was not in withholding money but in pretending to be more generous than they were, seeking prestige rather than genuine unity. [11:32]
3. The Right Kind of Fear: Fear of the Lord is a complex but necessary aspect of our faith. While we are often told not to fear, there is a kind of fear that is appropriate—a fear that recognizes God’s greatness and His intolerance for sin. This fear guides us to live in step with God, not against Him. [16:28]
4. Deliberate and Progressive Generosity: Generosity should not be aspirational or sporadic but deliberate and progressive. It’s not enough to feel generous; we must act on it regularly and intentionally. Whether through tithing or other means, our giving should reflect a disciplined lifestyle. [28:28]
5. Money and Spiritual Delusion: Our relationship with money can either delude us into thinking we are self-sufficient or remind us of our dependence on God. Radical generosity is a reflection of God’s own character and brings us into a state of grace and unity. [21:43]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:27] - Introduction to Stewardship and Generosity
[03:14] - The Early Church's Radical Generosity
[05:25] - Understanding Generosity
[06:33] - Generosity as Recognition, Not Transaction
[08:12] - Unity and Harmony Through Generosity
[09:47] - Grace and Generosity
[11:32] - The Story of Ananias and Sapphira
[13:09] - The Seriousness of Deceit in Giving
[14:47] - The Sin of Masquerading Generosity
[16:28] - The Right Kind of Fear
[18:04] - Personal Story of Fear and Comfort
[19:41] - Psalm 23 and God's Rod and Staff
[21:43] - Money and Spiritual Delusion
[23:18] - The Corinthian Church's Misbehavior
[24:59] - Defining Radical Generosity
[26:43] - Deliberate and Progressive Generosity
[28:28] - Practical Steps for Generosity
[30:04] - The Benefits of Generosity
[31:52] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 4:32-37
2. Acts 5:1-11
3. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8
#### Observation Questions
1. What characterized the early church's approach to generosity as described in Acts 4:32-37?
2. What was the sin of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11, and what were the consequences of their actions? [11:32]
3. How does 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 connect generosity with God's grace?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is generosity described as recognizing value rather than exchanging value? How does this perspective foster unity within the church? [06:33]
2. What does the story of Ananias and Sapphira teach us about the seriousness of deceit in giving? How does this story impact our understanding of integrity in our actions? [11:32]
3. How does the concept of the "fear of the Lord" as described in the sermon guide us to live in step with God rather than against Him? [16:28]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current approach to generosity. Is it more transactional or does it recognize and invest in the value and dignity of others? How can you shift towards the latter? [06:33]
2. Have you ever found yourself pretending to be more generous than you are, similar to Ananias and Sapphira? What steps can you take to ensure your giving is genuine and not for prestige? [11:32]
3. How do you understand the "fear of the Lord" in your personal faith journey? Can you identify a situation where this kind of fear has guided your actions? [16:28]
4. Generosity should be deliberate and progressive. What practical steps can you take to make your giving more intentional and regular? [28:28]
5. Consider your relationship with money. Are there ways in which it has deluded you into thinking you are self-sufficient? How can you remind yourself of your dependence on God? [21:43]
6. Radical generosity is a reflection of God's character. How can you embody this in your daily life and within your community? [30:04]
7. Think about a time when you felt God's grace through someone else's generosity. How did it impact you, and how can you pass on that grace to others? [09:47]
Devotional
Day 1: Generosity as Recognition, Not Transaction
Generosity is not about exchanging value but recognizing and investing in the value and dignity of others. This kind of giving fosters unity and harmony within the church, reflecting God's own generous nature. When we give, we are not merely performing a transaction; we are acknowledging the worth of others and contributing to a community where everyone is valued. This perspective shifts our focus from what we lose to what we gain in unity and grace.
In the early church, as described in Acts 4:32-37, believers shared everything they had, and this radical generosity brought great grace upon them. Their giving was not about the amount but about the heart behind it. They saw each other as valuable members of the body of Christ and invested in each other's well-being. This kind of generosity is transformative, creating a community that mirrors the love and generosity of God. [06:33]
Acts 4:32-33 (ESV): "Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all."
Reflection: Think of someone in your church community who might be in need. How can you recognize their value and invest in their well-being this week?
Day 2: The Seriousness of Deceit in Giving
The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 teaches us that God takes our actions seriously, especially when it comes to deceit and hypocrisy. Their sin was not in withholding money but in pretending to be more generous than they were, seeking prestige rather than genuine unity. This story serves as a sobering reminder that our motives matter to God. He desires honesty and integrity in our giving, not a facade of generosity.
Ananias and Sapphira's deceit disrupted the unity and harmony within the early church. Their actions were a stark contrast to the genuine generosity that characterized the community. God’s response to their deceit underscores the importance of sincerity in our actions. When we give, it should come from a place of genuine love and desire to help, not from a need to appear generous or gain recognition. [11:32]
Acts 5:3-4 (ESV): "But Peter said, 'Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.'"
Reflection: Reflect on your motives for giving. Are there areas where you might be seeking recognition rather than genuinely helping others? How can you align your heart with God’s desire for sincere generosity?
Day 3: The Right Kind of Fear
Fear of the Lord is a complex but necessary aspect of our faith. While we are often told not to fear, there is a kind of fear that is appropriate—a fear that recognizes God’s greatness and His intolerance for sin. This fear guides us to live in step with God, not against Him. It is a reverent awe that acknowledges His power and holiness, leading us to live lives that honor Him.
This kind of fear is not about being scared of God but about having a deep respect and reverence for who He is. It helps us understand the seriousness of our actions and the importance of living in a way that pleases Him. This fear is a guiding force that keeps us aligned with God’s will and helps us avoid the pitfalls of sin and hypocrisy. [16:28]
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV): "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight."
Reflection: How does your understanding of the fear of the Lord influence your daily decisions? What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper reverence for God in your life?
Day 4: Deliberate and Progressive Generosity
Generosity should not be aspirational or sporadic but deliberate and progressive. It’s not enough to feel generous; we must act on it regularly and intentionally. Whether through tithing or other means, our giving should reflect a disciplined lifestyle. For some, 10% may be a starting point, while for others, it may be a goal to work towards progressively.
Deliberate generosity means setting aside resources intentionally to give, rather than giving only when it’s convenient or when we feel moved. It’s about making generosity a regular part of our lives, reflecting a disciplined approach to our finances and our faith. Progressive generosity means continually growing in our giving, challenging ourselves to give more as we are able, and trusting God to provide for our needs. [28:28]
2 Corinthians 9:7-8 (ESV): "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."
Reflection: Consider your current giving habits. How can you make your generosity more deliberate and progressive? What steps can you take to ensure that your giving is a regular and intentional part of your life?
Day 5: Money and Spiritual Delusion
Our relationship with money can either delude us into thinking we are self-sufficient or remind us of our dependence on God. Radical generosity is a reflection of God’s own character and brings us into a state of grace and unity. Money has the power to deceive us into believing that we can rely on our own resources, but true generosity reminds us that everything we have comes from God.
When we practice radical generosity, we acknowledge our dependence on God and reflect His character to those around us. It helps us break free from the illusion of self-sufficiency and fosters a deeper trust in God’s provision. This kind of generosity not only benefits those we give to but also transforms our own hearts, drawing us closer to God and to each other. [21:43]
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV): "As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
Reflection: Reflect on your relationship with money. Do you find yourself relying on your own resources rather than trusting in God’s provision? How can you practice radical generosity to remind yourself of your dependence on God?
Quotes
1. "What I want for you is to leave this place in a state of grace. I want you to feel and know God's pleasure on you and in you. And maybe I want you to be a little afraid too. I say that with a smile, but biblically that's where we're going to end up. There is a state of grace and a state of fear that we should all constantly live in." [01:27] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Generosity handles money differently than we generally do. Normally, the way we handle our resources, our wealth, is that we invest and exchange it for things of value, right? So it's often referred to as transactional. You go to a store, you see something that you desire, you are introduced to an experience you want to try, and you think, does this cost have sufficient value for me? Is the exchange in my benefit?" [06:33] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "You're not exchanging value, right? You're recognizing value. You're looking at some objective, some people, and you're saying, I see value. I see the dignity. I see the possibility. And so I'm not going to exchange value. Rather, I'm going to invest value in this. And when we start doing that, what we really are doing is emphasizing value and dignity of people. It generates unity. There is a harmony that develops." [06:33] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When you're generous, God is pleased because you're acting in a way that conforms to Him. We are most like Him when our love is manifested in generosity. This is who He is. And when we act in this way, He is pleased. And He is pleased with this church. And as a result, there are all kinds of wonders and phenomenon happening. That's amazing." [09:47] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "There is a kind of fear that is appropriate. It's the kind of fear that you and I should have before God. It's the realization that He is not someone to be trifled with. When we deal with God, He is great and mighty, and His love is great and mighty. His anger and wrath burns against our sin, and He cannot be treated as something domesticated, somewhat tamed, declawed and defanged. God is not this way at all." [16:28] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "I learn through fear not to cross paths with God, but to walk in step with God. That's where fear rightly forms. I start living in a way that I conform to his pattern. And so I can read a story like this and go, yeah, that's kind of scary. I don't want to cross God, but I do want to follow him. I do want to walk in step with him." [19:41] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "This is where money is so detrimental, because it leaves us deluded. It makes us think that we're immune to God or independent. We don't really need him. We start thinking that, hey, I have some money in my pocket. I don't really need God to come through for me right now, because I have everything I need to address everything that I want." [21:43] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "I so very much want you to be in a state of grace. And I know that the path there is through a degree of fear. And I certainly have felt it this week if I've been interacting with this. And I want to be characterized as being radically generous. I want you to be likewise characterized as radically generous." [24:59] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Generosity is not characterized simply by our emotive state. It certainly starts there. Love is its source. But it's characterized by our deeds. Are we acting in generosity? And so, radical generosity is not aspirational. Secondly, it is not sporadic. Why is it not sporadic? Well, let me explain what I mean by sporadic." [24:59] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "If we, each of us, in this church said, my relationship to generosity will not be aspirational, it's not going to be sporadic, but it's going to be deliberate. I'm doing this on purpose. I'm doing this in a disciplined, regular manner. And it's progressive. I mean, I could spend another whole sermon talking about the benefits of that for ministry, but today I want to talk about the benefits of that for you." [31:52] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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