Scripture References: Mark 12:41-44; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Matthew 6:21; Hebrews 11:24-27
Intro: Continuing our series on Radiant's mission ("Beholding Jesus... obedient, surrendered, devoted..."), we focus today on being devoted to His mission through sharing. Specifically, how we share our resources matters deeply to Jesus. He watched people give (Mark 12), demonstrating that our approach to money and possessions is His business because it reveals our hearts.
Key Points:
- Jesus Watches Our Giving (Mark 12:41-44): Jesus deliberately observed people giving offerings. He wasn't impressed by large sums given from wealth, but by the widow's sacrificial gift (percentage) that showed total devotion. What we do with what we have reveals where our trust lies (Matt 6:21).
- Gospel-Motivated Generosity (2 Cor 8:9): Our giving isn't primarily driven by need, but by grace. Paul reminded the Corinthians of Jesus: "though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." Understanding this motivates selfless generosity, like that of the early church, known for its radical charity.
- A Charge to the Rich (Which is Us) (1 Tim 6:17-19): Globally, most of us are rich. Paul commands us:
- Don't be arrogant or self-sufficient due to wealth.
- Don't put hope in uncertain riches, but in God who provides everything. Beware of "hope migration" where trust shifts from God to money, leading to hoarding.
- Do good, be rich in good deeds, be generous and willing to share. This breaks the hold of wealth and puts hope back in God.
- Eternal Perspective Fuels Generosity: Why live generously? To "lay up treasure... as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life" (1 Tim 6:19). Seeing life through eternity frees us to invest earthly resources for eternal reward (Heb 11:26). Giving sacrificially is a wise investment when eternity is real.
Conclusion: Putting Jesus's brilliance on display includes reflecting His generosity. This flows from a heart transformed by the gospel and focused on eternity, trusting God as our provider and valuing His kingdom above earthly wealth. It requires actively combating arrogance and misplaced hope by being rich in good deeds and willing to share.
Call to Action:
- Acknowledge your wealth status honestly before God.
- Examine where your true hope lies – in God or your resources? Repent of misplaced trust.
- Obey the command: Do good, be rich in good deeds, be generous and willing to share.
- Cultivate an eternal perspective. Ask God how you can invest your resources for "the life that is truly life."
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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