Generous Rewards

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November 9, 2008 - 2 Corinthians 9:6-15

Open It

  1. What images come to your mind when you hear about a "cheerful giver"?

  2. Who is the most generous person you know? Why do you think so?

Explore It

  1. Why did Paul begin this passage with a discussion of farming? (9:6)

  2. How should we give? Why? (9:7)

  3. What promise does God give to believers who do give generously? (9:8)

  4. For what reason did Paul quote Scripture here? (9:9)

  5. What does God provide? (9:10)

  6. What results from the generosity of Christians? (9:11)

  7. What was the most important benefit that would arise from the collection for the Jerusalem church? (9:12-14)

  8. What did God give the Corinthians? (9:14)

  9. For what kind of gift did Paul praise God in his letter? (9:15)

Get It

  1. Why does God love a cheerful giver over someone who grudgingly gives large sums of money?

  2. What does this passage tell us about motivating people?

  3. What does this passage tell us about accountability?

  4. What does this passage tell us about the relationship between Christian faith and giving?

  5. What could a reluctant giver do to become a more cheerful giver?

  6. Why does giving in a grudging manner make any difference if the need is met?

  7. How should you react when other Christians give generously to you or your family?

  8. What principles of accountability should govern Christian giving?

Apply It

  1. What could you do this week to encourage a Christian friend to be a cheerful giver?

  2. What is one way you can set an example of giving?

  3. How can you remind yourself of God's generosity the next time you are tempted to hold back from giving cheerfully?

Notes

2 Cor. 9:6-8: People may hesitate to give generously to God if they worry about having enough money left over to meet their own needs. Paul assured the Corinthians that God was able to meet their needs. The person who gives only a little will receive only a little in return. Don't let a lack of faith keep you from giving freely and generously.

9:7 Our attitude when we give is more important than the amount we give. We don't have to be embarrassed if we can give only a small gift. God is concerned about how we give from the resources we have (see Mark 12:41-44). According to that standard, the giving of the Macedonian churches would be difficult to match (2 Cor. 8:3).

2 Cor. 9:10: God gives us resources to use and invest for him. Paul uses the illustration of seed to explain that the resources God gives us are not to be hidden, foolishly devoured, or thrown away. Instead, they should be cultivated in order to produce more crops. When we invest what God has given us in his work, he will provide us with even more to give in his service.

2 Cor. 9:12-15: Paul emphasizes the spiritual rewards for those who give generously to God's work. We should not expect to become wealthy through giving. Those who receive your gifts will be helped, will praise God, and will pray for you. As you bless others, you will be blessed.

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