8:1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us--see that you abound in this grace also. 8 I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.
How would you like it if you went to a car dealership and bought a new car, then found out that certain things in the car you test-drove weren’t in the “package” you bought? Or what if you ordered a meal at the restaurant, but they didn’t bring the potatoes? Today, Pastor John shows that the grace of giving is part of the “total package” of being a Christian. You may excel in many graces, and that’s great! But without giving, you’re missing the sunroof or the French fries of the Christian life.
Now, let’s join Pastor John in the book of 2 Corinthians chapter 8 as he continues his message, Grace Giving Part 1.