FIRST_FRUITS_3_Prayer_and_Expectation.docx

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Today’s sermon explored the heart behind giving, especially tithing, and how it connects to prayer and expectation. We looked at the biblical roots of tithing, even before the Law, and considered how generosity is a principle that runs throughout Scripture. The story of the poor widow reminded us that God values the heart and sacrifice behind our giving, not just the amount. We also discussed how giving is tied to faith—trusting that God is our provider, and that He multiplies what we offer. Finally, we were encouraged to give with expectation, knowing that God’s resources are abundant and that our generosity advances His kingdom.

Key Takeaways

• 1. Generosity is rooted in faith, not just obligation. Abraham’s tithe to Melchizedek happened centuries before the Law, showing that giving is a response to God’s goodness, not just a rule to follow. When we give, we’re participating in a story much bigger than ourselves—a story of trust and worship.
• 2. God measures our giving by the heart, not the amount. The poor widow’s offering was tiny in the world’s eyes, but Jesus said she gave more than anyone else because she gave all she had. True generosity is sacrificial and comes from a place of deep trust, not abundance.
• 3. Our giving is connected to God’s provision and our expectation of His faithfulness. 2 Corinthians 9:10 reminds us that God supplies seed to the sower and increases our harvest. When we give, we’re not losing; we’re sowing into God’s economy, trusting Him to provide and multiply.
• 4. Weakness and need are not barriers to God’s power—they are opportunities for His grace. Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 12 show that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. When we give out of our lack, or pray from a place of need, we open ourselves to experience God’s sufficiency in new ways.
• 5. The resources of God’s kingdom are abundant beyond our imagination. Revelation’s vision of the New Jerusalem reminds us that God is not stingy—His streets are gold, His gates are pearls. When we give, we’re aligning ourselves with a God whose generosity knows no limits, and we become part of advancing His gospel in the world.

1. In Genesis 14, what did Abraham do when he met Melchizedek, and why is this significant?
2. According to Mark 12, how did Jesus respond to the poor widow’s offering compared to the gifts of the wealthy?
3. What does 2 Corinthians 9:10 say about God’s role in providing for those who give?
4. In Revelation 21, how is the New Jerusalem described, and what does this tell us about God’s resources?

1. Why do you think Abraham chose to give a tithe to Melchizedek before there was any law about tithing? What does this say about the motivation behind giving?
2. Jesus said the widow gave “more” than the rich people, even though her gift was small. What does this reveal about how God measures generosity?
3. How does Paul’s statement that God’s “power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9) connect to the idea of giving out of need or lack?
4. What does the picture of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21 suggest about God’s attitude toward abundance and generosity?

1. When you think about giving—whether money, time, or resources—do you see it more as an obligation or as a response to God’s goodness? What would it look like to give out of gratitude rather than duty?
2. The widow gave “all she had to live on.” Is there an area in your life where God might be inviting you to trust Him more deeply, even if it feels risky or sacrificial?
3. Have you ever experienced God providing for you after you gave generously, even when it didn’t make sense on paper? Would you be willing to share that story with the group?
4. 2 Corinthians 9:10 talks about God multiplying what we sow. How might your expectations about God’s provision change the way you approach giving?
5. Paul says God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. Is there a place in your life where you feel weak or lacking, and how might God want to show His sufficiency there?
6. The vision of the New Jerusalem shows God’s resources are abundant. How does this challenge any fears or scarcity mindsets you might have about giving?
7. What is one practical step you could take this week to practice generosity—whether financially, with your time, or in another area? How can the group support you in this?