Crisis of Confidence // A Guide to an Empowered Life / 05. Empowered... In Our Wallet - Neville Jones // 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
05. Empowered... In Our Wallet - Neville Jones // 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
In our journey of faith, we often grapple with the concept of money and its place in our spiritual lives. This message challenges us to reframe our perspective on wealth through the lens of biblical stewardship. The key scripture, 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, invites us to consider the Macedonian Christians' example of joyful generosity despite their extreme poverty. Their secret? They 'gave themselves first to the Lord.' This profound act of surrender reminds us that everything we have ultimately belongs to God. We're called to be faithful stewards, managing His resources for His glory. This shift in mindset can liberate us from the grip of materialism and open our hearts to a life of God-honouring generosity.
Discussion Questions:
Read 1 Timothy 6:10 and Matthew 6:24. How do these verses challenge our relationship with money?
The sermon introduces the principle of stewardship. How does viewing yourself as a manager of God's resources rather than an owner change your perspective on money?
Reflect on the story about the donuts at the airport. How does this illustrate our tendency to claim ownership over things that aren't truly ours?
How does understanding Christ's sacrifice impact your view on generosity?
Discuss the statement: "Generosity is not so much the amount of what you give, it's what's left after you've given." What are your thoughts on this definition?
How can we cultivate a heart of generosity that stems from gratitude for the gospel rather than obligation or guilt?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Conduct a "stewardship audit" of your resources (time, money, talents). How are you managing these for God's glory?
Challenge yourself to practice intentional generosity this week. This could be financial giving, acts of service, or sharing your time with others.
Reflect on areas where money might have too much control in your life. Pray for God's guidance in surrendering these areas to Him.
Consider ways your small group could practice collective generosity in your community.
Discussion Questions:
Read 1 Timothy 6:10 and Matthew 6:24. How do these verses challenge our relationship with money?
The sermon introduces the principle of stewardship. How does viewing yourself as a manager of God's resources rather than an owner change your perspective on money?
Reflect on the story about the donuts at the airport. How does this illustrate our tendency to claim ownership over things that aren't truly ours?
How does understanding Christ's sacrifice impact your view on generosity?
Discuss the statement: "Generosity is not so much the amount of what you give, it's what's left after you've given." What are your thoughts on this definition?
How can we cultivate a heart of generosity that stems from gratitude for the gospel rather than obligation or guilt?
Here are some ways you could apply this talk:
Conduct a "stewardship audit" of your resources (time, money, talents). How are you managing these for God's glory?
Challenge yourself to practice intentional generosity this week. This could be financial giving, acts of service, or sharing your time with others.
Reflect on areas where money might have too much control in your life. Pray for God's guidance in surrendering these areas to Him.
Consider ways your small group could practice collective generosity in your community.
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