God’s Invitation to Be a Giver
Malachi 3:7-12
I. The Lord’s Statement that Calls for a Change (v. 7)
A. They rejected God’s instructions
“…you have gone away from my ordnances…” – v. 7a
1. It is a measurement of our love (John 14:15)
2. It is a measurement of our gratitude
B. They refused God’s invitation
“…return to me and I will return to you…” – v. 7b
1. God desires intimate fellowship
2. We must move back toward God (James 4:8)
C. They rationalized God’s indictment
“In what way shall we return?” – v. 7c
1. Disobedience leads to excuses
2. Disobedience dulls our conscience
II. The Lord’s Answer with a Charge (v. 8-9)
A. The charge of their sin (v. 8)
1. Their charge was robbery
2. Their charge was unbelievable
3. Their charge was unadmitted
4. Their charge was undeniable
B. The consequences of their sin (v. 9)
1. They were robbing themselves (Haggai 1:6)
2. Their robbery was widespread
“…even this whole nation..” –v. 9b
III. The Lord’s Promise With a Condition (v. 10-12)
A. God’s provision (v. 10)
1. There should be a gathering place for our tithes and offerings (I Cor. 16:2)
2. There is a reason for bringing the tithe and offering
3. There is the result of faithful giving
B. God’s protection (v. 11)
1. Our lack of kingdom investment may bring opposition
2. Our proper investment will bring His involvement
C. God’s prestige is lifted (v. 12)
When we are faithful in the area of Biblical Giving:
1. God is glorified in our personal lives
2. God is glorified in our church
“We are never more like Jesus than when we give sacrificially”
