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)
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.
20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen
"‘Generous’ refers to showing a readiness to give more of something—especially money—than is strictly necessary or expected."
"The ‘work of God’ refers to the actions of believers who are motivated by faith and love for God. These works include spreading the gospel, performing acts of service, and living in a way that reflects God’s character."
"In this context, ‘partnership in sharing the Gospel’ refers to believers working together—united in faith, resources, and mission—to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. It reflects collaboration among individuals, churches, and ministries to fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20)."
Apostle Paul highlights that the Philippians were the only church that financially supported him when he left Macedonia. Their giving was not just charity but a spiritual partnership in advancing the Gospel.
Firstly. being generous promotes partnership in sharing the gospel because
A.It meets real ministry needs (v. 15-16)
Generosity is an incredible catalyst for Gospel partnership, igniting the flames of ministry and ensuring that the work of evangelism can flourish without hindrance. Apostle Paul shines a spotlight on the remarkable generosity of the Philippian Church. While other congregations turned a blind eye, the Philippians consistently sent financial support, even during his time in Thessalonica. Their unwavering commitment not only met Paul’s physical needs like food, lodging, and travel expenses but also showcased their profound dedication to spreading the Gospel.
By giving sacrificially, the Philippians became dynamic partners in Paul’s mission, illustrating that true Gospel collaboration encompasses both proclamation and provision. This principle is just as vital when believers generously support missionaries, Churches, and outreach initiatives. This denotes active engage in God’s transformative work, dismantling barriers and empowering the message of Christ to reach new heights.
Together, we can unleash the power of generosity and watch as it propels the Gospel further than we ever imagined.
Secondly, being generous promotes partnership in sharing the gospel because
B.It is an investment in eternal rewards (v. 17)
Apostle Paul's declaration 'Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account' (Philippians 4:17, NIV) reveals that Christian generosity in gospel partnership transcends transactional giving - it's an eternal investment where material support for ministry becomes spiritual fruit, as God's heavenly accounting system transforms earthly sacrifices into imperishable rewards. The phrase “more will be credited to your account” suggests divine record-keeping of gospel investments.
It maintains the paradox that cheerful givers store treasure in heaven precisely when they don't seek earthly repayment.
Thirdly, being generous promotes partnership in sharing the gospel because
C.It results in praise to God. (v. 20)
The Doxological Outcome of Generosity
The spontaneous outburst of praise in verse 20 ("To our God and Father be glory forever") reveals the ultimate purpose of this exchange that when gifts are given as sacrifices, they cease to be mere business and become occasions for divine glorification.
ILLUSTRATIVE TEXT: 2 Corinthians 9:7
"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
APPLICATION:
Brethen, in the realm of business, various forms of partnerships and investments exist, including General Partnerships, Limited Liability Partnerships, Fixed Income Investments, Equity Investments, and Alternative Investments such as cryptocurrencies. While these partnerships and investments can yield returns and profits, they also carry inherent risks that may result in losses.
Recently, we witnessed significant declines in government bonds, (Head cuts) leading to liquidity challenges for several banks, some of which were ultimately forced to close down. In contrast, when it comes to Ministry, there is a singular partnership and investment that stands out: sharing the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. This endeavour offers divine and eternal rewards without any associated risks.
Engaging in this partnership not only provides returns and profits that transcend earthly measures but also enriches your heavenly account. The spiritual and physical rewards derived from this investment are immeasurable and cannot be quantified in monetary terms.
Generosity is an essential aspect of Christian discipleship, and our attitudes toward giving reveal much about the condition of our hearts. Generosity is not just about money; it is worship—an act of devotion that Honors God. “The measure of a life is not its duration but its donation."
Do we contribute out of a genuine delight in God's work, or do we view it merely as an occasional obligation, something we engage in only when prompted by a sermon, a crisis, or a year-end appeal? Brethen, we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.
Christian generosity is both a responsibility and a blessing—it fuels God’s work while bringing spiritual and eternal benefits. True generosity doesn’t ask, ‘How much do I have but how much can I give.
The Bible calls us to a higher standard, exemplified by the Macedonian churches, including those in Philippi, who gave joyfully, sacrificially, and consistently (2 Corinthians 8:1-5; Philippians 4:14-19). Their inspiring example invites us to reflect on our own giving practices and encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity that aligns with our faith. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." – Hebrews 13:16
SOME PRACTICAL EXAMPLES OF GENEROSITY IN PARTNERSHIP FOR SHARING THE GOSPEL.
How can we be generous in these modern times toward the spread of the Gospel and Ministry?
1.Prison Ministry – Support rehabilitation programme that teach job skills while introducing inmates to Christ
2.Homeless Outreach – Provide hygiene clothing, or hot meals while engaging in conversations about Christ’s love.
3.Free Medical Clinics – Organize or volunteer at health camps in underserved areas, praying with patients and sharing the Gospel
4.Disaster Relief – Work with organizations like Samaritan’s Purse, Compassion International to aid disaster victims, offering both physical help and spiritual comfort
5.Social media Giving Campaigns – Fundraising for causes (e.g., child sponsorships, Bible translations) while sharing testimonies online. (Digital Generosity)
6.Foster Care & Adoption Ministry – Provide financial and emotional support to foster families, reflecting God’s love for orphans (James 1:27).
7.Christian Film Screenings – Sponsor free movie nights with faith-based films followed by discussions
8.Free Music & Drama Outreach – Perform in public spaces or prisons, using creativity to share the Gospel (Targeting the youth)
9.Donating to missionaries or mission organizations to help cover travel, living expenses, and outreach materials.
10.Funding Church Plants – Assisting new churches with rent, equipment, or outreach materials
11.Creative Arts for Evangelism – Musicians, writers, and artists producing worship songs, films, or literature to spread the Gospel.
12.Training Leaders – Equipping pastors and evangelists in underserved areas
TRANSITIONAL SENTENCE:
Not only should Christians be generous towards the work of God because it promotes partnership in sharing the gospel but also:
II. CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE GENEROUS TOWARDS THE WORK OF GOD BECAUSE IT INVITES DIVINE PROVISIONS (V. 18-19)
18I 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.
Firstly, being generous invites divine provisions because:
A.God receives your giving as worship (v. 18)
Paul joyfully extends his heartfelt gratitude to the Philippian believers for their generous and timely gift, delivered through their devoted messenger, Epaphroditus. He expresses that he has been abundantly supplied and is more than satisfied by their provision—not just in a physical or material sense, but in a profoundly spiritual way.
In a beautiful twist, Paul elevates their act of giving by framing it with the rich language of Old Testament worship. He describes their generosity as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” This powerful imagery transforms their support from a simple charitable deed into a sacred and worshipful act. It highlights that their contributions to his ministry are ultimately directed toward God, received by Him as a genuine expression of faith, love, and obedience.
Moreover, Paul’s message underscores the incredible truth that acts of generosity within the Christian community carry eternal significance. They are not just gifts; but vital components of the believer’s spiritual service. This is an inspiring reminder that our acts of kindness and support for one another resonate in the heavenly realm, reflecting our commitment to God and His work.
Secondly, being generous invites divine provisions because:
B.God meets the giver’s needs from His riches (v. 19)
Paul anchors his promise of divine provision ('And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus,' 4:19 NIV). In the theological reality that generous participation in gospel ministry activates God's faithful covenant, where the measure of His supply is not the giver's limited resources but Christ's unlimited riches, ensuring that those who invest materially in God's work will experience supernatural provision that meets every need—physical, spiritual, and emotional—through their union with Christ and for the advancement of His glory.
ILLUSTRATIVE TEXT: Matthew 6: 19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven."
APPLICATION:
Senior Ministers and Colleagues Bible Students, during our time on campus, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to God's work through our support of the Auditorium project and various mission projects. There have been moments when it was challenging to meet our financial obligations, yet your unwavering generosity has shone through.
I want to assure you that your contributions will never be in vain. God promises to meet all your needs according to His riches in glory. Rest assured, your support will yield abundant blessings.Your supply is on the way.
Brethen, God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. Trusting in God’s provision when we engage in sacrificial giving is a profound expression of faith. This act challenges our deepest fears of scarcity and tests our reliance on His promises. When God provides, He doesn’t send a shipment—He opens a river.
Scripture consistently encourages us to embrace generosity, not out of obligation, but from a place of trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness. However, the tension between faith and fear is tangible; our instinct often leads us to hold back, fearing that if we give too much, we may not have enough for ourselves.
As stated in Luke 6:38, "Give, and it will be given to you—pressed down, shaken together, and running over." This verse reminds us of the abundant blessings that come from a generous spirit. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 9:8 assures us that "God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
The decision to either withhold or give sacrificially ultimately reflects our trust—whether we place our confidence in ourselves or in God. The more we practice radical generosity, the more we come to understand that God is never outdone in generosity.
Will we take Him at His Word and give with open hands, or will we cling tightly to our possessions, fearing that there may not be enough? The answer to this question reveals the true nature of our trust.
As Proverbs 11:24 states, "One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want." This wisdom underscores the transformative power of generosity and the abundant life that awaits those who trust in God’s provision.
CONCLUSION:
The Philippians' generosity was a beautiful expression of their faith and partnership in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Through their giving, they were not only supporting Paul's ministry but also laid up treasures in heaven for themselves. We can emulate these acts because it promotes partnership in sharing the gospel of the Lord Jesus and invites God’s divine provisions.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of the Philippian church, who gave joyfully and sacrificially to support Paul’s ministry, even in their own poverty. Just as they partnered in spreading the Gospel, stir in us that same spirit of generosity not out of obligation, but out of love for Christ and the lost.
Lord, open our eyes to see the needs of missionaries, church planters, and evangelists, like those serving in the Philippines and beyond. Help us remember that our giving is an act of worship, storing up treasures in heaven.
Break any chains of selfishness or fear that hold us back from giving. Teach us to trust Your promise that You will supply all our needs as we sow into Your Kingdom.
Raise up faithful partners individuals, churches, and businesses who will support Gospel workers with finances, prayer, and practical help. May our giving be cheerful and our partnership intentional, just as the Philippians’ gifts were a fragrant offering to You
Bless the missionaries we support protect them, encourage them, and multiply their labour. Let every dollar, every prayer, and every act of service bear eternal fruit.
Finally, unite Your Church across the globe, just as the Philippians and Paul were united in Christ. Make us one in the mission to proclaim your glory to all nations.
We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
