Date: Mother's Day
Speaker: Pastor (unnamed)
Theme: Paul urges Corinthian church (Gentile, founded by Paul) to fulfill pledge and aid destitute Jewish believers in Jerusalem amid 1st-century persecution/shunning. Giving is worship to the Lord through the church, not socialism or wealth redistribution for survival needs. Titus (and likely Luke) to deliver funds.
Bible Facts on Money/Stewardship
~2,350 verses on money (twice as many as faith + prayer combined).
Jesus spoke more on money stewardship than heaven/hell combined (only kingdom of God more).
16/38 parables involve money/possessions.
5 Principles of Generous Giving
Spiritual discipline: Like faith, speech, knowledge, diligence, love (2 Cor 8:7); reveals character/heart.
Act of grace, not law/commandment: Test of sincere love (2 Cor 8:8; 9:5); tithing principle (10% to Lord) still applies, but grace exceeds law minimum via heart motivation.
Sowing/reaping: Proportional return; give generously, God provides generously (2 Cor 9:6); not "give to get rich."
Heart attitude over amount: Purposeful, cheerful (not grudging/necessity); God tests/weighs heart (2 Cor 9:7); keep money if ungrateful.
God notices, meets all needs: Always sufficient/abundant for good works (2 Cor 9:8,10-11,15); enriches for liberality/thanksgiving.
Church Giving Notes
God provides abundantly (online, checks, boxes); no offering in service.
Praises faithful elderly givers ($5-25 from poverty).
Prayers
Opening: For clarity/understanding/application.
Closing: Thanks for provision; commit to stewardship/generosity; bless moms/comfort lonely.