Introduction

Introduction

The lessons in this series are meant to give the student a fresh perspective regarding their offertory giving. God wants us to realize that our offertory giving is about more than the gift itself, it is about our relationship with Him. The Lord uses the activity of giving to draw us into a fuller, more intimate fellowship with Him.

The human parallel to how God uses our offerings can be found in how parents involve their children in gift giving at an early age. Typically the child lacks the inclination to give. They must be taught. They also lack the resources to give. The resources must be given. The goal of the process isn’t the gift itself but rather the lessons that the child learns. The lessons are about relationships. They are about love, honor, gratitude, respect, etc. On the surface it appears that the child is the giver but in actuality he is the receiver.

God does not ask for our gifts that He might add to His wealth. First, He gives of His wealth to us. Then He creates opportunities for us to give back to Him. This is done for our benefit. He is teaching us and nurturing us that we might draw closer to Him. We give to Him not out of substance we actually own, but of substance we have received. As we do so He then reveals to us the depths of himself. We receive, then give but in doing so we receive the greater gift.

The lessons are interactive. As you read write down any additional scriptures that come to mind. Next reflect on the principles that you believe the Holy Spirit is revealing to you. Then answer the questions at the end of the lesson. Mostly importantly, determine what you might do differently as a result of the truths that God has revealed and commit to doing so. Finally, encourage someone else to pursue this course of study as well. We will post one topic on the website each month.

We want to create an internet-based conversation about this topic. If you have questions or comments click on the link for the web log on the SBC website or simply visit the blogsite at: christiangiving.blogspot.com

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All inquiries should be forwarded to the author at morethanthegift@comcast.net.

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