NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 22
The ultimate illustration of New Testament giving is seen in Paul’s admonition to husbands to love their wives; “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Eph 5:25) CHRIST’s example is always our pattern in all things. Love is the very basis for giving in the New Testament as HE has demonstrated. True love is the greatest motivator. When fear fails, duty is neglected, and the thought of future reward is forgotten, love will cause a man to give. The LORD JESUS demonstrated his willingness to give HIMSELF for HIS bride because HE loved her with an everlasting love.
HE was willing to spend and be spent because of HIS great love for her. HE considered the cost and gladly paid it, demanding nothing in return, but determined to purchase whatever HIS bride stood in need of. Love does not ever consider the cost too high but is willing to do all that is necessary. “Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honorable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.” (Isa 43:4) Quantities and quotas have nothing to do with giving which is motivated by love.
This is the same motivation for all that the LORD’s people are called upon to perform; regardless of whether it is in our marriages, the church, or even our place of employment. “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men.” (Eph 6:5-7) Love for CHRIST will make men good employees as well as good employers.
Epaphroditus is held up as an example to the Phillipian church by Paul, as one who was willing to give of himself and his substance even when he was not necessarily feeling like it. He told them to hold him in high esteem for his works sake (see Phil.2:29) because he had ministered to Paul’s needs even when the Phillipians had neglected to do so. GOD always provides such things as those HE sends to a task need. They may not dine with fine china but HE will never leave them nor forsake them and will provide for them even if it is by their own hand as Paul often demonstrated. Epaphroditus was especially blessed in this “ministry” to which he was sent.
Paul then exhorts his “true yokefellow” (chap.6:3) (which was probably Timothy or Ephaphroditus, though we cannot be certain) to take special care of those who had labored with him no doubt giving of their substance and support. Just as he was mindful of the needs of widows and orphans, he was also mindful of those who had sacrificed much for the cause of CHRIST. Dare the sons of GOD neglect those who have given themselves for their service?
Paul is mindful to thank the Phillipians for their renewed support which evidently had been somewhat neglected (2:30) but perhaps stirred up in them by the consideration of Epaphroditus selfless love and they had began again to help Paul with the necessities of life. Rather than upbraid them for this neglect he lays it off to their not having had the proper opportunity to accomplish it. (see Phil.4:10) He reiterates his own willingness to be content with such things as he has, which lesson he had learned by experience wherein he had enjoyed abundance and had suffered lack, yet the LORD was sufficient for all things.(v.11,12)
His thankfulness for their present support serves as an occasion for him to remind them that their faithful support of him in the beginnings of his labors was of a singular blessing since they were the only church who did help him. (v.15) He uses this as an opportunity to remind them that it is more blessed to give than to receive by telling them that he was thankful for their support because of the blessing that he knew it was unto them to be enabled to give with a pure heart. (v.17)
“But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phi 4:18-19)
(to be continued, DV) mam
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING-Part 21
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 21
Whenever the scripture mentions “giving” it is not always concerned with money as we see in Galatians 6:2; “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” This is the very basis of the true believer’s relationship to his brethren (and of course subsequently the LORD). Whatever the burdens are which are born by our brethren, we are to stand with them and minister to them as we are able. The LORD JESUS plainly taught this to HIS disciples, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Mat 25:40) If we are the followers of CHRIST ought we not to emulate HIS example who “is touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” (Heb.4:15) Is this not the fulfilling of the very “law” of CHRIST who said to love our neighbor as ourselves. It is a right understanding of this principle which will be that which guides the true sons of GOD in regard to the stewardship of those goods which the LORD has placed within our hands.
The sixth verse says “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.”,(Gal 6:6) Since we have already commented on this subject we do not wish to labor the point . The blessing of a man is directly tied to his generosity. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” (Gal 6:7) Those who are the most blessed are those who are given a liberal spirit which carries with it great joy and gladness in serving the KING of kings. (see v.8)
Paul continually demonstrated that generous spirit which the LORD had granted to him as he reminds the Ephesians that he is the “prisoner of CHRIST” for their benefit,. (see Eph.3:1; 4:1) He was committed to their spiritual wellbeing because of the calling which the LORD had given him, from which he could not escape but gladly fulfilled for their profit, according to the measure of grace given to him. (see I Cor.9:16-19)
He gives a startling admonition when he says that we are to be “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” (Eph 5:21) He has reference here to the relationship which the sons of GOD are to have towards one another as they come together in the local church. We are indeed our brother’s keeper which is again set forth for us in the example of marriage which is typical the relationship which CHRIST has for HIS church and subsequently as we follow in HIS steps, that which the brethren are to have one to the other. Let each esteem the other above himself.(see Phil 2:3)
“Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 6:23)
(to be continued, DV) mam
Whenever the scripture mentions “giving” it is not always concerned with money as we see in Galatians 6:2; “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” This is the very basis of the true believer’s relationship to his brethren (and of course subsequently the LORD). Whatever the burdens are which are born by our brethren, we are to stand with them and minister to them as we are able. The LORD JESUS plainly taught this to HIS disciples, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” (Mat 25:40) If we are the followers of CHRIST ought we not to emulate HIS example who “is touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” (Heb.4:15) Is this not the fulfilling of the very “law” of CHRIST who said to love our neighbor as ourselves. It is a right understanding of this principle which will be that which guides the true sons of GOD in regard to the stewardship of those goods which the LORD has placed within our hands.
The sixth verse says “Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.”,(Gal 6:6) Since we have already commented on this subject we do not wish to labor the point . The blessing of a man is directly tied to his generosity. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” (Gal 6:7) Those who are the most blessed are those who are given a liberal spirit which carries with it great joy and gladness in serving the KING of kings. (see v.8)
Paul continually demonstrated that generous spirit which the LORD had granted to him as he reminds the Ephesians that he is the “prisoner of CHRIST” for their benefit,. (see Eph.3:1; 4:1) He was committed to their spiritual wellbeing because of the calling which the LORD had given him, from which he could not escape but gladly fulfilled for their profit, according to the measure of grace given to him. (see I Cor.9:16-19)
He gives a startling admonition when he says that we are to be “Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” (Eph 5:21) He has reference here to the relationship which the sons of GOD are to have towards one another as they come together in the local church. We are indeed our brother’s keeper which is again set forth for us in the example of marriage which is typical the relationship which CHRIST has for HIS church and subsequently as we follow in HIS steps, that which the brethren are to have one to the other. Let each esteem the other above himself.(see Phil 2:3)
“Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Eph 6:23)
(to be continued, DV) mam
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING-Part 20
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 20
Paul continues to remind the Corinthians that he did not in any way slight them in his faithfulness to minister to them, because it appears that some had arisen in their midst who felt that Paul had somewhat neglected them “Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.” (2Cor.12:12-13) He said that the only difference in the ministry which he performed among them and that which was performed in other places is that he was careful to place no burden at all upon them for his physical needs and care. He did not receive nor require any financial benefit from them preferring to minister to his own needs and those that were with him. Now they seem to have forgotten his sacrifice and service to them and he (I believe facetiously) asks them to forgive him for not burdening them with those needs.
The carnal nature of men is always moving men to complain and feel slighted even when there is obviously nothing to be complained about nor any real slight that has occurred. It is also a sad but true occurrence motivated by the same carnality, wherein the sons of GOD would have such little regard to the needs of those GOD has sent to minister in their midst, who often (as Paul did) spend their own substance for the good of those who receive blessings at their hand. (see v.15) Paul reiterates that neither he nor Titus nor any of the other men who he sent to minister among them ever did so for financial gain. (see v.16-19) A man faithful to his calling does not ask for money for his services but those to whom he ministers who are led by the SPIRIT of GOD are mindful of the blessings they receive and cannot disregard those needs.
Moving into the book of Galatians, Paul once again mentions that a necessary part of the ministry which he was performing was to collect benevolent help for the poor saints in Jerusalem. As the apostles in Jerusalem sent them on their way they made especial reference to this need which Paul was already aware of and was inclined towards. “Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. (Gal 2:10)
While upbraiding these Galatians for their tendency to listen to the Judaizers and slip back into legalism Paul reminds them of their initial love of the gospel. In doing so we see an illustration of the true spirit of giving taught in the new testament. “Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.” (Gal 4:15) Those who are given a true spirit of giving are not looking for bounds and limits, but are ready to bestow whatever the LORD has placed at their disposal because of the love they have for CHRIST.
.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Paul continues to remind the Corinthians that he did not in any way slight them in his faithfulness to minister to them, because it appears that some had arisen in their midst who felt that Paul had somewhat neglected them “Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.” (2Cor.12:12-13) He said that the only difference in the ministry which he performed among them and that which was performed in other places is that he was careful to place no burden at all upon them for his physical needs and care. He did not receive nor require any financial benefit from them preferring to minister to his own needs and those that were with him. Now they seem to have forgotten his sacrifice and service to them and he (I believe facetiously) asks them to forgive him for not burdening them with those needs.
The carnal nature of men is always moving men to complain and feel slighted even when there is obviously nothing to be complained about nor any real slight that has occurred. It is also a sad but true occurrence motivated by the same carnality, wherein the sons of GOD would have such little regard to the needs of those GOD has sent to minister in their midst, who often (as Paul did) spend their own substance for the good of those who receive blessings at their hand. (see v.15) Paul reiterates that neither he nor Titus nor any of the other men who he sent to minister among them ever did so for financial gain. (see v.16-19) A man faithful to his calling does not ask for money for his services but those to whom he ministers who are led by the SPIRIT of GOD are mindful of the blessings they receive and cannot disregard those needs.
Moving into the book of Galatians, Paul once again mentions that a necessary part of the ministry which he was performing was to collect benevolent help for the poor saints in Jerusalem. As the apostles in Jerusalem sent them on their way they made especial reference to this need which Paul was already aware of and was inclined towards. “Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. (Gal 2:10)
While upbraiding these Galatians for their tendency to listen to the Judaizers and slip back into legalism Paul reminds them of their initial love of the gospel. In doing so we see an illustration of the true spirit of giving taught in the new testament. “Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.” (Gal 4:15) Those who are given a true spirit of giving are not looking for bounds and limits, but are ready to bestow whatever the LORD has placed at their disposal because of the love they have for CHRIST.
.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING--Part 19
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 19
Because there were many false teachers which had arisen (even in those early days of the church), Paul found himself in a position wherein he felt compelled to remind these Corinthians (whom he had taught in the way of GOD) of his apostle-ship and rightful place as their “father” in the gospel. Men by nature are fickle at best and often easily swayed by those who come speaking with silver tongues. Paul made no boast of eloquence (see II Cor.10:10; 11:6) and sought to impress upon them that the worth of a man’s message was in its substance rather than its style. (v.3,4) His chief concern for them was that they be found walking in obedience to CHRIST and not that they were entertained or had their egos stroked. It is rare to find churches today whose main purpose is not in making folks feel good about themselves. Psychology and empty assurance has replaced the soul searing message of GOD’s truth. Man rather than CHRIST is at the center of their message.
He does not spare them (the Corinthians) in pointing out that they were lacking in a due consideration of the worth of his ministry among them. He plainly and gladly preached and ministered among them, never making any demands for payment for his services. As we have pointed out before, he felt it necessary to labor with his own hands so that no man might be able to accuse him of preaching for money. It is a testimony to the shallowness of men by nature that they would have a tendency to devalue the worth of his ministry on that account. I have often witnessed this same phenomenon in the present time. TV preachers and so called traveling evangelists, by the score, are not ashamed at all to beg and cajole money from professing believers and amazingly many will gladly open their coffers and bestow wealth upon these charlatans and imposters while neglecting the needs of those whose main concern is their spiritual well being.
Paul points out that because he did not “require” of them that he be paid, it was still incumbent upon them to give due consideration for the service which he had rendered unto them. He even points out the fact that others (Macedonians) to whom he had ministered were forthcoming to supply such things as he was lacking because of his ministry among them even though he was presently engaged in such service to the Corinthians. (see II Cor.11:7-9) Those who are ministered to by those sent from the LORD’s hand should give due consideration to those who watch for their souls (see Heb.13:17). Even in this admonition Paul’s purpose was not to enrich himself but to benefit the Corinthians in stirring them up to receive the blessings which are incumbent in a giving spirit.
“To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” (2Cor 10:16-18)
(to be continued, DV) mam
Because there were many false teachers which had arisen (even in those early days of the church), Paul found himself in a position wherein he felt compelled to remind these Corinthians (whom he had taught in the way of GOD) of his apostle-ship and rightful place as their “father” in the gospel. Men by nature are fickle at best and often easily swayed by those who come speaking with silver tongues. Paul made no boast of eloquence (see II Cor.10:10; 11:6) and sought to impress upon them that the worth of a man’s message was in its substance rather than its style. (v.3,4) His chief concern for them was that they be found walking in obedience to CHRIST and not that they were entertained or had their egos stroked. It is rare to find churches today whose main purpose is not in making folks feel good about themselves. Psychology and empty assurance has replaced the soul searing message of GOD’s truth. Man rather than CHRIST is at the center of their message.
He does not spare them (the Corinthians) in pointing out that they were lacking in a due consideration of the worth of his ministry among them. He plainly and gladly preached and ministered among them, never making any demands for payment for his services. As we have pointed out before, he felt it necessary to labor with his own hands so that no man might be able to accuse him of preaching for money. It is a testimony to the shallowness of men by nature that they would have a tendency to devalue the worth of his ministry on that account. I have often witnessed this same phenomenon in the present time. TV preachers and so called traveling evangelists, by the score, are not ashamed at all to beg and cajole money from professing believers and amazingly many will gladly open their coffers and bestow wealth upon these charlatans and imposters while neglecting the needs of those whose main concern is their spiritual well being.
Paul points out that because he did not “require” of them that he be paid, it was still incumbent upon them to give due consideration for the service which he had rendered unto them. He even points out the fact that others (Macedonians) to whom he had ministered were forthcoming to supply such things as he was lacking because of his ministry among them even though he was presently engaged in such service to the Corinthians. (see II Cor.11:7-9) Those who are ministered to by those sent from the LORD’s hand should give due consideration to those who watch for their souls (see Heb.13:17). Even in this admonition Paul’s purpose was not to enrich himself but to benefit the Corinthians in stirring them up to receive the blessings which are incumbent in a giving spirit.
“To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” (2Cor 10:16-18)
(to be continued, DV) mam
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING-Part 18
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 18
Paul continues his exhortation unto the Corinthians to carry through with what they had promised to do in this matter of collecting an offering for the relief of the saints in Jerusalem. “For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.” (2Cor. 9:2) The best of intentions without action is no better than inaction. Our benevolence is intended to stir up the benevolence of our brethren as we build one another up in the most holy faith. But mere promises of benevolence without actually doing what we are motivated to do is but a mere sham and is like James said, “And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (James 2:16-17) True faith always produces actions and not just words.
The very basis and principle of new testament giving is set forth in v.7, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” (2Cor. 9:7) When a “gift” is given grudgingly or out of necessity it is no “gift” at all, rather it is but a duty for which there can be no blessing. (see Luke 17:9-10) The scripture is very clear that there is a great blessing in giving, “he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” (2Cor 9:6) This reaping is not something that comes later, like a reward for services rendered, but is a very present reaping as one sows. The blessing is in the giving not the future. We are not to give as though GOD is keeping a tally sheet and will reward us accordingly. Rather HE pours out HIS blessing and its enjoyment as we give. Only those who serve from a legal principle expect otherwise. A generous spirit is a great reward and enjoyment for those to whom it is given
It is in an understanding of this principle that HE does “increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” (2Cor. 9:10-11) Nothing can produce greater thankfulness in the children of GOD than to be found acting in the SPIRIT of CHRIST. In the activity of that which is produced in and through us by HIS SPIRIT we are moved to worship HIM and say with the apostle, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” (2Cor. 9:15) Giving of ourselves and our substance for the sake of the brethren, by the power and grace of GOD at work in us, is the nearest that we can come in this world to imitating HIM who gave himself for us, expecting nothing in return.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Paul continues his exhortation unto the Corinthians to carry through with what they had promised to do in this matter of collecting an offering for the relief of the saints in Jerusalem. “For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.” (2Cor. 9:2) The best of intentions without action is no better than inaction. Our benevolence is intended to stir up the benevolence of our brethren as we build one another up in the most holy faith. But mere promises of benevolence without actually doing what we are motivated to do is but a mere sham and is like James said, “And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (James 2:16-17) True faith always produces actions and not just words.
The very basis and principle of new testament giving is set forth in v.7, “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” (2Cor. 9:7) When a “gift” is given grudgingly or out of necessity it is no “gift” at all, rather it is but a duty for which there can be no blessing. (see Luke 17:9-10) The scripture is very clear that there is a great blessing in giving, “he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” (2Cor 9:6) This reaping is not something that comes later, like a reward for services rendered, but is a very present reaping as one sows. The blessing is in the giving not the future. We are not to give as though GOD is keeping a tally sheet and will reward us accordingly. Rather HE pours out HIS blessing and its enjoyment as we give. Only those who serve from a legal principle expect otherwise. A generous spirit is a great reward and enjoyment for those to whom it is given
It is in an understanding of this principle that HE does “increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” (2Cor. 9:10-11) Nothing can produce greater thankfulness in the children of GOD than to be found acting in the SPIRIT of CHRIST. In the activity of that which is produced in and through us by HIS SPIRIT we are moved to worship HIM and say with the apostle, “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” (2Cor. 9:15) Giving of ourselves and our substance for the sake of the brethren, by the power and grace of GOD at work in us, is the nearest that we can come in this world to imitating HIM who gave himself for us, expecting nothing in return.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
New Testament Giving- Part 17
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 17
All New Testament giving is patterned after the example of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” (2Cor.8:9) The benefit and blessing which can be bestowed on our brethren is much more important than holding onto our possessions. CHRIST gave all of HIMSELF for our sakes, can we do less for those for whom HE shed HIS precious blood? Can we say that we love HIM if we do not express our love to those of our brethren who may be in need? Is this not what James meant when he said, “And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?” (James 2:16)
Paul exhorts the Corinthians to carry out in fact that which they are motivated to do by the SPIRIT, even reminding them of their intentions from a year ago. (see v. 10) Good intentions do not fill the mouths of the hungry with food but those who act in faith upon those intentions do. (see v.11) We are to exhort one another unto good deeds, not as though we would not otherwise be inclined to perform them but in order to “stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:.”(2Pet 3:1) Let us not neglect that gift which is in us. (see I Tim.4:14; II Tim.1:6)
Paul is not trying to shame them into giving of their substance but is gently reminding them that they may one day be in the same place of need. (see v.12-14) GOD’s purpose is manifested in the mutual benefit that the brethren are to be to one another. “Bear ye one another’s burdens”. What a glorious privilege it is to be included in the family of GOD! The care of Titus (see v.16,17) for these Ephesians is already a demonstration of that continual supply which the LORD provides for HIS own through the ministry of the saints one to the other.. One may provide butter and the other bread so that a sumptuous meal is spread for all to eat of and be filled. (see Eph.4:16) Regardless of the provision the LORD is to be thanked and praised.
Paul is very careful to point out that great care is taken to deliver these funds to the brethren in Jerusalem without any part of them being used by those who did the delivery. Those who “collect” such funds in our day often feel entitled to a portion of them for their own benefit. Such should never be the case and to do so is contrary to the spirit of giving. (see v.20-22) Funds collected and given for a specific purpose must be used for that specific purpose and those entrusted with such gifts must give due diligence to see that they are applied as desired by those who gave them.
Modern “mission” endeavors fail the test of New Testament giving because most often great portions of funds, supposedly collected for a specific (perhaps even noble) purpose, are used up by those who “administrate” such. When paid jobs are created, ostensibly to distribute collected funds, then there is a disregard of New Testament principle and a reliance on the invention of men. This concept is foreign to the New Testament and is but the product of those who think the kingdom of GOD is meat and drink or are either greedy of filthy lucre.
(to be continued, DV) mam
All New Testament giving is patterned after the example of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” (2Cor.8:9) The benefit and blessing which can be bestowed on our brethren is much more important than holding onto our possessions. CHRIST gave all of HIMSELF for our sakes, can we do less for those for whom HE shed HIS precious blood? Can we say that we love HIM if we do not express our love to those of our brethren who may be in need? Is this not what James meant when he said, “And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?” (James 2:16)
Paul exhorts the Corinthians to carry out in fact that which they are motivated to do by the SPIRIT, even reminding them of their intentions from a year ago. (see v. 10) Good intentions do not fill the mouths of the hungry with food but those who act in faith upon those intentions do. (see v.11) We are to exhort one another unto good deeds, not as though we would not otherwise be inclined to perform them but in order to “stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:.”(2Pet 3:1) Let us not neglect that gift which is in us. (see I Tim.4:14; II Tim.1:6)
Paul is not trying to shame them into giving of their substance but is gently reminding them that they may one day be in the same place of need. (see v.12-14) GOD’s purpose is manifested in the mutual benefit that the brethren are to be to one another. “Bear ye one another’s burdens”. What a glorious privilege it is to be included in the family of GOD! The care of Titus (see v.16,17) for these Ephesians is already a demonstration of that continual supply which the LORD provides for HIS own through the ministry of the saints one to the other.. One may provide butter and the other bread so that a sumptuous meal is spread for all to eat of and be filled. (see Eph.4:16) Regardless of the provision the LORD is to be thanked and praised.
Paul is very careful to point out that great care is taken to deliver these funds to the brethren in Jerusalem without any part of them being used by those who did the delivery. Those who “collect” such funds in our day often feel entitled to a portion of them for their own benefit. Such should never be the case and to do so is contrary to the spirit of giving. (see v.20-22) Funds collected and given for a specific purpose must be used for that specific purpose and those entrusted with such gifts must give due diligence to see that they are applied as desired by those who gave them.
Modern “mission” endeavors fail the test of New Testament giving because most often great portions of funds, supposedly collected for a specific (perhaps even noble) purpose, are used up by those who “administrate” such. When paid jobs are created, ostensibly to distribute collected funds, then there is a disregard of New Testament principle and a reliance on the invention of men. This concept is foreign to the New Testament and is but the product of those who think the kingdom of GOD is meat and drink or are either greedy of filthy lucre.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING - Part 16
NEW TESTAMENT GIVING – Part 16
Paul begins chapter 8 of his second epistle to the Corinthians by calling their attention to the source of all of the blessings and obedience which is demonstrated in the lives of the sons of GOD by pointing out to them the actions of the Macedonians. He says, “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit (i.e.; we want you to take notice) of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;” (2 Co 8:1) Here Paul plainly attributes the generosity of those Macedonian churches to the abundance of GOD’s grace which was poured out on them. He does not say GOD blessed them because they gave but that their giving was the result of HIS blessing. This is a clear illustration that it is indeed more blessed to give than to receive. When GOD’s grace is poured out on any people HE will give them a generous spirit towards their fellow believers and this is exactly the motivation that stirred in these Macedonians. A stingy and selfish spirit is not an evidence of GOD’s blessing. On the contrary, when men must be cajoled and persuaded to give out of the abundance with which the LORD has blessed them, or they have a desire to take advantage of one another in financial dealings (see I Cor.6:7) there is great evidence that such men are outside of the outpouring of HIS mercy. GOD’s grace is the first cause of all obedience in the sons of GOD and it is the moving cause of their esteem for the wellbeing of their brethren above themselves.
The abundance of GOD’s grace was so evident on the Macedonians that Paul says they went above and beyond what men would normally consider proper. “How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality., For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; (2 Co 8:2,3) They did not limit themselves to percentages or a consideration of their ability to give, but were even willing to impoverish themselves for the benefit of those brethren who they deemed in need of their help. They gave with the same spirit that the widow of Zarephath did when she fed the prophet Elijah with the last handful of meal which she possessed, and the woman which cast in her last pennies into the treasury at the temple. GOD is able to bless HIS people to be generous even when they themselves are impoverished demonstrating that they are the most blessed of all. A generous spirit has nothing to do with the size of a mans bank account.
True giving is described by Paul in verse 5 when he said they “first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.” (2 Co 8:5) The LORD demonstrated HIS abundant grace in them by stirring them up to do as Paul had exhorted the Corinthians in an earlier letter saying, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. “ (1 Co 10:31) If a man has given his own self to the LORD then his possessions are seen as belonging to the LORD. This is a most blessed state for a man to be brought to for it is even the same state of mind which was in CHRIST when HE gave HIMSELF for us. Oh may our prayer be, “Dear LORD evermore stir our souls that we may cast ourselves at thy feet and say Here am I, send me. O FATHER revive thy work in the midst of the years and cause thy people to be conformed to the image of JESUS CHRIST.” May we each one be givers of the Macedonian type.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Paul begins chapter 8 of his second epistle to the Corinthians by calling their attention to the source of all of the blessings and obedience which is demonstrated in the lives of the sons of GOD by pointing out to them the actions of the Macedonians. He says, “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit (i.e.; we want you to take notice) of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;” (2 Co 8:1) Here Paul plainly attributes the generosity of those Macedonian churches to the abundance of GOD’s grace which was poured out on them. He does not say GOD blessed them because they gave but that their giving was the result of HIS blessing. This is a clear illustration that it is indeed more blessed to give than to receive. When GOD’s grace is poured out on any people HE will give them a generous spirit towards their fellow believers and this is exactly the motivation that stirred in these Macedonians. A stingy and selfish spirit is not an evidence of GOD’s blessing. On the contrary, when men must be cajoled and persuaded to give out of the abundance with which the LORD has blessed them, or they have a desire to take advantage of one another in financial dealings (see I Cor.6:7) there is great evidence that such men are outside of the outpouring of HIS mercy. GOD’s grace is the first cause of all obedience in the sons of GOD and it is the moving cause of their esteem for the wellbeing of their brethren above themselves.
The abundance of GOD’s grace was so evident on the Macedonians that Paul says they went above and beyond what men would normally consider proper. “How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality., For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; (2 Co 8:2,3) They did not limit themselves to percentages or a consideration of their ability to give, but were even willing to impoverish themselves for the benefit of those brethren who they deemed in need of their help. They gave with the same spirit that the widow of Zarephath did when she fed the prophet Elijah with the last handful of meal which she possessed, and the woman which cast in her last pennies into the treasury at the temple. GOD is able to bless HIS people to be generous even when they themselves are impoverished demonstrating that they are the most blessed of all. A generous spirit has nothing to do with the size of a mans bank account.
True giving is described by Paul in verse 5 when he said they “first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.” (2 Co 8:5) The LORD demonstrated HIS abundant grace in them by stirring them up to do as Paul had exhorted the Corinthians in an earlier letter saying, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. “ (1 Co 10:31) If a man has given his own self to the LORD then his possessions are seen as belonging to the LORD. This is a most blessed state for a man to be brought to for it is even the same state of mind which was in CHRIST when HE gave HIMSELF for us. Oh may our prayer be, “Dear LORD evermore stir our souls that we may cast ourselves at thy feet and say Here am I, send me. O FATHER revive thy work in the midst of the years and cause thy people to be conformed to the image of JESUS CHRIST.” May we each one be givers of the Macedonian type.
(to be continued, DV) mam
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)