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Bible Study: March 23, 2014


NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, LifeWay publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.

This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Bible Studies for Life curriculum.

Bible Passages: 2 Corinthians 8:10-15, 9:1-5

Discussion Question: What steps can we take now so we can give when a need arises?

Food for Thought:

Giving is a sticky subject. Approach it with thoughtfulness, recognizing that people really do want answers to the why and how of giving. Let your group find those answers as they study 2 Corinthians 8 and 9.

Paul had received an incredible report from Christians in Corinth. They had pledged to give generous relief to Christians in Jerusalem. Their generosity inspired Macedonian Christians to give generously, and these Macedonians did not have nearly the wealth of the Corinthians.

Nearly a year later, Paul used the Macedonians’ generosity to inspire the Corinthians to follow through.

We find specific takeaways in these verses.

— Eagerness is contagious. Your zeal inspires others, even when you might not realize it. The Corinthians inspired the Macedonians, who in turn inspired the Corinthians.

— Nothing is wrong with asking people to make a commitment to give financially. The apostle Paul was very clear in what he asked of the Corinthians.

— Accountability is acceptable. Paul sent Titus to ensure the Corinthians followed through on their commitment to give. Without accountability, greed and stealing from God can occur.

— Giving is not about getting. Genuine, generous giving expects nothing in return.

Our giving and our motives for giving are very important to God, and to people. Be ready to give as the need arises, but do so with right motives.

Bible Studies for Life

Bible Studies for Life tackles real life issues, both struggles and joys of life, while creating a safe environment for people to have in-depth spiritual conversations each week. Want to help the people in your church know Christ, connect the unconnected, strengthen families, and disciple people with wisdom? Then Bible Studies for Life is for you.

To find extra suggestions for specific age groups (men, women, singles, parents) search the lower left corner of blog.lifeway.com/biblestudiesforlife/

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    About the Author

  • Staff/Lifeway Christian Resources