Lesson 11: Giving Offerings is Sharing with Others.
Definition
The offering is a gift to God after our tithes.
Scripture Reading
Ephesians 4:28, “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.”
Main Points
- SHARING IS CARING: Jesus taught His disciples in the same way they have freely received they should also freely give. Therefore, offerings are a practical way of sharing with others what God has given you.
- WORK IS REQUIRED: Money doesn’t grow on trees so the way God blesses His people is through the diligent work of their hands- not by stealing or dishonesty. So our hard work can literally change the world one person at a time.
- NEEDY PEOPLE SHOULD WORK TOO: The Bible doesn’t support the idea of “handouts” but rather “hand’s up!” So the needy person must learn to work and begin to help others as soon as they can. For example, in places like India there are needy people working hard to support their families and help others who have greater needs than themselves.
Summary
Sharing is caring.
Application
- Be a faithful tither.
- Work hard so you can share with those in need and help them learn how to start working hard to meet their own needs.
- Share because you care!
The offering is a gift to God “after” the tithe and is given in a “variety” of ways. God said it should be a “generous” “seed” given with a “cheerful” heart from personal “sacrifice.” Offerings will always bring “thanksgiving” to God because they go towards “charity” and ministry “supplies.” We give offerings in “obedience” to God’s Word, “sharing” with others our blessings with a “gracious” heart by “imitating” Jesus and revealing where our “treasure” really is.