"The Hilarious Giver," II Corinthians 9:6-9

1. The Hilarious Giver Will Sow Bountifully
2. The Hilarious Giver Will Be Fully Supplied, for Every Good Work

• Paul is mediating an offering to the Saints in Jerusalem who are experiencing poverty. Historically, poverty was a common condition in Jerusalem. In Acts, it is noted that some individuals had relinquished their property to assist “all those who had need.”
• Sowing bountifully implies more than just planting the seed; there must be continual care for the seed planted. For the one who “sows or gives bountifully,” there is a plowing of the field “with hope.” The idea is to “plow in hope.” If Highland plants seeds sparingly and is not generous, do not expect a robust expression of the gospel throughout her outreach. If we sow generously and plow in hope, God will honor our commitment, but our motives must be centered on Him.
• Paul describes the kind of giver that brings joy to God as “cheerful.” He sets this cheerfulness as opposed to “reluctantly” or under “compulsion.” That we must foster an attitude of cheerfulness as we give, instead of being full of sadness to see our gift lift from our hands, or that we give it no thought. Charles Spurgeon stated, “The greatest joy of a Christian is to give joy to Christ.” Who we are in Jesus drives our generosity. To be a happy giver is to think more deeply and intently on who Christ is and what He accomplished on the cross. Discipleship Reflection: How can we be examples of a cheerfully giving church?

1. Trust in God’s Provision
2. Instead of focusing on how much you do, focus on the impact

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