Today’s message summary of December 25, 2016 from Pastor Gus Brown:
There is a spiritual reward for those who give generously; however, we should not expect to become wealthy through giving to others. Those who receive your gifts will be helped, will be joyful, and comforted that someone thought about them. As you bless others, you will be blessed.
Giving is done because we love others. It is the example of what God has done for us.
John 3:16
For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
Romans 5:8
But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!
Romans 8:32
He did not even spare His own Son but offered Him up for us all; how will He not also with Him grant us everything?
The gift of Jesus Christ is a gift that continually gives and it is for everyone who acknowledges Him. It is a lasting gift that is beyond description. It is His gift of eternal life for all who believe in Him.
2 Corinthians 9:12-15
For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many acts of thanksgiving to God. They will glorify God for your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with others through the proof provided by this service. And they will have deep affection for you in their prayers on your behalf because of the surpassing grace of God in you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.
The service of giving is addressing needs that others have. It is to bring forth a great relief in someone’s life. Your giving is a reflection of God’s gift to all people for all to see.
God’s gift of eternal life–salvation through Jesus Christ–brings peace, wisdom, knowledge, discernment and fellowship–and many other things. It is a lasting gift that no one else can provide but Him.
Thanks be to God!
Akron Alliance Fellowship 