But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.   Galatians 5:22, 23 (ESV)

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.   2 Corinthians 8:9 (ESV)

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.   2 Corinthians 9:6, 7 (ESV)

Introduction - The power of generosity  

"Giving is truly loving"   Charles Spurgeon

Fallen Condition Focus: Unfortunately, we are all by nature selfish, greedy, covetous, and stingy without the regenerating and transforming work of the Holy Spirit. 

"There are people who are known to be very liberal, yet they never give without scolding or pride or even insolence."   John Calvin, Golden Booklet of the True Christian Life, p 39.

Sermon Proposition: Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give generously to others.

I. Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give liberally and bountifully. (2 Cor. 9:6, 8)

II. Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give intentionally and thoughtfully. (2 Cor. 9:5, 7a)

III. Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give cheerfully. (2 Cor. 9:7b)

IV. Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give confidently. (2 Cor. 9:8-11)

V. Since we have been made rich by the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, we ought to give for the glory of God. (2 Cor. 9:11-15)

"In all of my years of service to my Lord, I have discovered a truth that has never failed and has never been compromised. That truth is that it is beyond the realm of possibilities that one has the ability to out-give God. Even if I give the whole of my worth to Him, He will find a way to give back to me much more than I give."   Charles Spurgeon

 Conclusion and Call to Respond