Christian Generosity in I Corinthians 16:1-4

Christian Generosity

I Corinthians 16:1-4

The Church is the priority beneficiary and benefactor of Christian generosity. Therefore Christians should primarily give to and through the Church.

1. Christian generosity prioritizes the needs of the saints.  
1. 16:1--”the collection for the saints”
2. Christian generosity is the responsibility of each church and all churches.
1. 16:1--”as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do.
2. 2 Cor. 9:1-2
3. Christian generosity prioritizes church giving over all other types of giving.  
1. 16:2--”On the first day of the week.
4. Christian generosity should be considered an act of worship.
1. 16:2--”On the first day of the week.
2. What makes giving an act of worship?
1. Response to the grace of God. 2 Cor. 8:6-7  
1. God’s grace provides the money to give.
2. God’s grace provides the will to give.
2. Expression of trust. 2 Cor. 8:5
3. Expresses and elicits praise and thanksgiving.  2 Cor. 9:12-15
4. Magnifies the sacrificial work of Christ. 2 Cor. 8:8-9; 9:15
5. Christian generosity is the responsibility of each Christian and all Christians.
1. 16:2--“each of you should set aside”
6. Christian generosity should be planned.
1. 16:2--”first day of the week
1. Regular or consistent
2. Frequent
7. Christian generosity should be proportionate to prosperity.
1. 16:2--”as he may prosper”
2. Christian generosity is the purpose of prosperity. 2 Cor 9:8-11
3. The example of the Macedonians.  2 Cor. 8:3, 12
1. Gave within their means--gave what they could afford.
2. Gave beyond their means--went without some things in order to afford more.
3. Cannot give what you do not have (12).
8. Christian generosity should not be or feel forced.
1. 16:2--”No collecting after I come”
2. 2 Cor. 9:5-- “Ready as a willing gift, not an exaction.”
3. 2 Cor. 8:7-- “Act of [God’s] Grace”
4. 2 Cor. 8:8 -- “not as a command”; “to prove...your love is also genuine.”
5. 2 Cor. 9:7-- “Not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Here is a link to a printable version of this post for use in Bible studies or Sunday Schools:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oKO5YeC58SixyIqam3o4x0DClpH0ogmKpUKMFdHb4qo/edit?usp=sharing