READ | SERMON NOTES
SUMMARY l Christian giving is far more than simply meeting financial needs. It is a partnership in the gospel, an investment into God’s eternal kingdom and an act of worship to Him.
While under house arrest in Rome, the Apostle Paul depended on the generosity of fellow believers for his daily needs. The church in Philippi held a special place in Paul’s heart. It was the first church he planted in Europe, and from the very beginning, they faithfully supported his ministry. Paul credits them as the only church who had sent him aid when he was in need.
When the Philippians heard of Paul’s imprisonment, they once again shared in his troubles (v.14) by sending financial support through Epaphroditus. Paul was deeply encouraged by their generous gifts and their loving sacrifice and commitment to the gospel.
WHY SHOULD WE GIVE?
a. Our Partnership in the Gospel (v14-16)
– Paul commends the Philippians for sharing in his troubles. The word translated as “shared” comes from the Greek word koinonia, meaning fellowship, participation or sharing in common.
– Koinonia reflects a deep, active and reciprocal relationship in which people are united by a shared commitment, affection, and/or spiritual bond.
– By sending financial support to Paul, the Philippians were declaring that his gospel mission was also their mission. They were actively participating in the work God had entrusted to him.
Similarly, our financial giving is an expression of our partnership with God in the gospel. Through our financial support, we invest in the advancement of God’s kingdom and participate in His work. Our giving carries an impact far greater than the dollar value given. It is a declaration that the mission of the gospel is both our personal and collective responsibility.
b. As an Act of Worship
– In the Old Testament, God’s people gathered around the altar to worship. Each brought an offering, presenting to God something precious and valuable.
– Giving is an expression of worship in which we demonstrate our gratitude and reliance on God.
– Jesus taught: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt 6:21)
– Our giving is one of the clearest places where our professions of love and faith meet everyday practice. It reveals what we truly value and whom we ultimately trust.
– Paul reminds that “Godliness with contentment is great gain…For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” (1 Tim 6:6-10)
– It is possible to sing songs of worship without truly engaging our hearts. Yet it is often much harder to part with our money without exposing the true condition of our hearts. Generous giving becomes a tangible expression that God, not wealth, holds first place in our lives.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE GIVE?
a. God Credits Spiritual Dividends to Our Account (v17)
– Paul was less concerned about how the Philippians’ gift benefited him than about how it would benefit them spiritually. He says “not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.” (Philippians 4:17)
– Earthly treasures may disappear overnight; heavenly treasures are eternal, guaranteed by Jesus himself (Matt 6:19-20).
– In Malachi, God invites the Israelites to trust His faithfulness by bringing their tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:10-12). Likewise, Paul encouraged the Corinthian church that if they gave generously, they would also reap generously (2 Cor 9:6). He also reminded them that God enriches His people “in every way” so that they may be generous on every occasion (2 Cor 9:11).
– Giving reveals our priorities and demonstrates trust in God. When we give generously for the advancement of God’s kingdom, faith grows, gratitude deepens, selfishness diminishes and dependence on God increases.
– God promises that faithful sowing produces spiritual dividends.
b. God Supplies All Our Needs (v19)
– “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:19) This promise was made to believers who have faithfully and generously given to meet the needs of others. They have done so consistently, conscientiously and with great considerations for the advancement of God’s kingdom.
– “When God’s work is done in God’s way for God’s glory, it will lack not for God’s supply” (Hudson Taylor). God never promises to satisfy every desire, but He faithfully promises to provide everything we truly need according to His abundant riches in Christ Jesus.
CONCLUSION
The ultimate act of Christ’s generosity enables and inspires us to be generous and sacrificial in our giving. He gave everything for us. Let us look at this opportunity to give to God and the church as an incredible privilege to partner in God’s mission, invest in His kingdom and worship Him with grateful hearts.
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. (2 Cor 8:9)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- Study Scripture
a. Read Philippians 4:14-20. What stands out in this passage about giving? - Recall Sermon
a. Why should we give financially to the daily operations of the Church? (vv. 14-16, 18)
b. What happen when we give generously and sacrificially? (vv. 17, 19)
c. What is the context of the promise in verse 19? - Relate Personally
a. How am I partnering the Church in the gospel? What role does it play in the partnership?
b. Is my giving an act of worship or merely a financial transaction? How may my pledge, tithe and offerings be a pleasing aroma to God?
c. Is the love of God or money guiding my giving? How may I give with gratitude and joy so that more spiritual dividends be credited to my account?
d. What is hindering me from trusting in God’s promise to supply all my needs? - Commit to Action
a. Jesus gave up everything for my sake (2 Cor. 8:9). I will send in my pledge this weekend as a reflection of His generosity.
