8:16 But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. 17 For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more diligent, he went to you of his own accord. 18 And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, 19 and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, 20 avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us-- 21 providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 22 And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, because of the great confidence which we have in you. 23 If anyone inquires about Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker concerning you. Or if our brethren are inquired about, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ. 24 Therefore show to them, and before the churches the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf.
You probably have a lot of experience handling money. At least – for yourself. But have you ever had to take care of money that belonged to someone else? Maybe you were the treasurer of your kid’s booster club. Or, more significantly, the trustee of your elderly parents’ money and care. Today, Pastor John says that’s nothing compared to the responsibility of handling money that’s been given to God. When you’re dealing with what has been donated to the kingdom, you’re entrusted with God’s funds.
Now, let’s join Pastor John in the book of 2 Corinthians chapter 8 as he begins his message, Grace Giving Part 3.