2 Corinthians 9:10-15
“He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Ephesians 4:16 (p.896)
- We Enrich The Church.
Series Memory Verse: “You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.” Luke 6:36 (p.786)
- Shift my mindset.
“For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.” 2 Corinthians 9:10 (p.886)
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” Matthew 6:31-32 (p.738)
- Do my part.
“Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:11-12 (p.886)
“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.” Hebrews 13:16 (p.928)
- Support unity in The Church.
“As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” 2 Corinthians 9:13-15 (p.886)
“Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:6 (p.868)
My Next Step This Week:
_____ I will sign up to serve in my church and be part of the mission of the global Church.
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION
One Thing: We Enrich the Church
Key Verse: “You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.” Luke 6:36
Bible References: 2 Corinthians 9:10-15
CONVERSATION STARTER
// Was there ever a time when you felt you had nothing left to give (either emotionally, physically, financially, or spiritually) and yet somehow you found the strength? When you think back, how were you able to make it happen?
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The concept of generosity was not new to those of Jesus’ time. Generosity towards others, however, outside one’s own religion or beliefs, was not widely practiced at the time. Jesus demonstrated the importance of generosity to everyone. Generosity toward others was a characteristic of the early church, as seen in the Book of Acts. In fact, being a part of the church and being a member was viewed as a long-term covenant relationship between people resolved to glorify God. It was a serious commitment in which those involved were part of something greater than any one person.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
// Read 2 Corinthians 9:10 (p.886). Shift my mindset.
- What barriers do you put up in your life that prevent you from utilizing the resources God has provided?
- What resources do you possess that you could use to serve others?
// Read Matthew 6:31-32 (p.738). We need to trust in God.
- Do you find that you are often worried or anxious? What are some things you worry about?
- Do you find that your worries and anxieties were realized?
- How does God provide for you?
// Read 2 Corinthians 9:11-12 (p.886) and Romans 12:4-5. Do my part. In both of these passages, we are reminded that we can take the gifts that God has given us and be generous and compassionate with them. We all have something to contribute and when we do, good things will happen.
- Have you ever been part of a team? Did everyone on the team have the same role?
- How successful was the team when people were not in the roles they were skilled at? How did the team do when everyone knew their roles and were skilled in those roles?
// Read 2 Corinthians 9:13-15 (p.886). Our generosity reflects that we are being obedient to Jesus as His followers.
- When you think of generosity what comes to mind?
- How is being generous being compassionate? Can you be one without the other?
- How does our generosity help others?
// Read Romans 14:19. Support unity in The Church.
- What does unity look like?
- How can we encourage unity and support The Church?
NEXT STEP
Next Step_____ I will sign up to serve in my church and be part of the mission of the global Church.
DIGGING DEEPER
There are other passages throughout the New Testament that show the connection between The Church and the human body. It illustrates how we are all involved as believers.
Ephesians 5:23 (p.898), Colossians 1:24 (p.902), Ephesians 4:16 (p.896),
1 Corinthians 12:16 (p.877)
Think of some ways you can be generous and some steps you can take to help unify the church.