Being Generous Towards The Work Of God Series

OUTLINE

Text: Philippians 4:15-20 (NIV)

Subject: Generosity

Theme: Being generous towards the work of God

Preposition: Christians should be generous towards the work of God.

I.CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE GENEROUS TOWARDS THE WORK OF GOD BECAUSE IT PROMOTES PARTNERSHIP IN SHARING THE GOSPEL (V. 15-17,20)

Being generous promotes partnership in sharing the gospel because

A. It meets real ministry needs (v. 15-16)

B. It is an investment in eternal rewards (v. 17)

C. It results in praise to God. (v. 20)

ILLUSTRATIVE TEXT: 2 Corinthians 9:7

II.CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE GENEROUS TOWARDS THE WORK OF GOD BECAUSE IT INVITES DIVINE PROVISIONS (V. 18-19)

Being generous invites divine provisions because

A. God receives your giving as worship (v. 18)

B. God meets the giver’s needs from His riches (v. 19)

ILLUSTRATIVE TEXT: Matthew 6: 19-21

TEXT: Philippians 4:15-20 (NIV)

15 Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only;

16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.

17 Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.

18 I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

SUBJECT: Generosity

THEME: Being generous towards the work of God

INTRODUCTION:

Imagine a modest church located in a remote village, where the congregation endures daily struggles merely to provide food for their families. Despite their own hardships, these devoted individuals united, contributing their limited resources to support a missionary in a neighbouring country. Years later, the missionary returns with an incredible story: their selfless sacrifice has sparked a movement, leading an entire community to embrace faith.

This act of generosity, though seemingly insignificant by worldly standards, has created waves of eternal significance. It serves as a profound reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can inspire transformative change. The impact of their love and dedication is truly extraordinary.

SERMONIC EXPRESSION:

Just as the members of the small, struggling village demonstrated remarkable generosity by supporting the ministry of a missionary in a neighbouring country. In a similar spirit, Christians should contribute generously to the work of God.

SERMONIC PURPOSE:

It is my earnest desire that by the end of this sermon, every Christian present here will know why he or she should be generous towards the work of God.

PROPOSITION:

In light of the aforementioned, I respectfully propose that Christians should be generous towards the work of God.

BACKGROUND:

The Book of Philippians is one of the epistles authored by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment in Rome under Emperor Nero. This letter is addressed to the saints, overseers, and deacons of the Philippian church, which holds the distinction of being the first Christian congregation established in Europe. It reflects Paul’s profound affection for a community renowned for its generosity and steadfast faith. The Philippians not only supported Paul’s ministry financially (Philippians 4:10-16) but also served as a model for other churches (2 Corinthians 8:1-5).

Paul composed this epistle in response to two significant developments. First, after a period of silence during his imprisonment, the Philippians sent Epaphroditus to deliver gifts and encouragement. Following Epaphroditus's illness and subsequent recovery, Paul seized the opportunity to convey his gratitude and offer exhortations to the church.

The central themes of the letter encompass joy, unity, humility, and perseverance. In Chapter 1,Paul articulates his deep love for the Philippians, prays for their spiritual growth, and reassures them of his contentment despite his chains. Chapter 2 encourages believers to emulate the humility of Christ and to live in harmony with one another. In Chapter 3, Paul contrasts his former Jewish credentials with the incomparable value of knowing Christ, emphasizing the importance of faith over legalistic achievements.

In Chapter 4:15-20, the pericope under consideration Paul expresses his heartfelt thanks to the Philippians for their financial support, noting that they were the only church to assist him during his time in Macedonia. He assures them that God will meet all their needs, underscoring the spiritual blessings that accompany generosity and divine faithfulness

TRANSITIONAL SENTENCE:

Now Church, let us delve into the text to explore two compelling reasons why Christians should embrace generosity in support of God's work.

I.CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE GENEROUS TOWARDS THE WORK OF GOD BECAUSE IT PROMOTES PARTNERSHIP IN SHARING THE GOSPEL (V. 15-17, 20)