Giving Like the Macedonian Believers
VBC Albuquerque · Sep 5, 2025
The sermon encourages believers to complete their charitable commitments, using the Macedonian believers as an example. It teaches that true giving comes from a joyful heart and understanding of Jesus' grace, who became poor so we might become rich.
The sermon begins by citing 2 Corinthians 8:10-11 to call believers to complete their charitable commitments that they began last year. The pastor emphasizes that completion must correspond to each person's ability and original desire. Perseverance in doing good is a sign of living faith and obedience to God.
The second section develops the argument by presenting the model of the Macedonian believers, who gave beyond their means despite living in difficult circumstances (2 Corinthians 8:2-4). The pastor cites 2 Corinthians 8:9 to explain the theological foundation of giving: Christ was rich but became poor out of love for us, so that by His poverty we might become rich. This is the foundation of all Christian giving.
The third section emphasizes that giving must come from a willing heart, not forced or coerced. The pastor cites 2 Corinthians 9:5-7 to teach that God loves a cheerful giver. The sermon warns against greed, citing 1 Timothy 6:7-10 that the love of money is the root of all evil.
The fourth section applies the message to practical life by clarifying the connection between faith and action. Citing James 2:15-17, the sermon teaches that faith without works is dead. Helping the poor is not only an act of charity but also an expression of living faith and love for God.
The final section encourages believers to store treasure in heaven rather than on earth (Matthew 6:19-21), reminding them that where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The sermon closes with the promise from Malachi 3:10 that if we are faithful in giving, the Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings without measure.