“Why Tithe?”

1 Corinthians 16:1-2

2 Corinthians 9:7

Malachi 3:10-11

April 19, 2009

I. Biblical guidelines govern giving.

Giving should be intentional– Set it aside

Purposeful Proportionate

– Plan in advance Save up Avoid crisis offerings

I. Biblical guidelines govern giving.

Giving cannot be forced– Not grudgingly

It has to be our heart-decision We cannot begrudge or be reluctant

– God loves a cheerful giverhilaron

I. Biblical guidelines govern giving.

God cannot be out-given– He will open the floodgates of heaven.

So much blessing we cannot contain it 90% will go further than 100%

– He gives back to us accordingly.

II. Principles govern our thinking.

God’s work done God’s way will never lack God’s supply.– If we are good stewards, God will supply.– God will honor our faithfulness in giving.

II. Principles govern our thinking.– Psalms 37:25, “…I have never seen the righteous

forsaken or their children begging bread.”– Psalms 50:10, “for every animal of the forest is mine,

and the cattle on a thousand hills.”– 1 Corinthians 10:26, “The earth is the Lord’s and

everything in it.”– Philippians 4:19, “And my God will meet all your

needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”

II. Principles govern our thinking.

We need the experience of giving.– It is a spiritual discipline.

Just as much as praying and Bible reading Giving builds Christian character

– Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”– Giving is being obedient to the Word of God.

II. Principles govern our thinking.

We need the experience of giving.– It puts material things into perspective.

It helps us prioritize spending.– What have we done with the money we did have?– What does it say about our view of God?

It helps us develop sensitivity towards others.– We should put others before ourselves.– We must ensure that our attitude is appropriate.

Conclusion – Next Steps

Get on a budget– Evaluate where you spend your money

Reduce your debt– Pay off credit cards as soon as possible

Begin to give by faith– $1.00 or 1%– Commit to give more as God provides