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.
If you were asked to list some of the important aspects of living the Christian life, which ones would you name? One of them would probably be fellowship with other believers. Today, Pastor John agrees, and he explores one of the ways in which it’s manifested – giving. The apostle Paul didn’t hesitate to ask the church in Corinth to excel in giving. He knew it was part of the lifestyle of being a Christian. And when you put generosity into action, it’ll spill out into other parts of your Christian experience.
Now, let’s join Pastor John in the book of 2 Corinthians chapter 8 as he begins his message, Grace Giving Part 1.