MAIN POINT:

Paul encourages the Corinthian church to finish what they started in their ministry of giving.

ICEBREAKER:

Most of us have given away or received something for free. What is your favorite thing that you have ever given away or received freely?

INTRODUCTION:

In Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth, he enourages them to give generously to the christians who are suffering in Jerusalem. This month at Faith Promise we are fasting and praying for our annual free will offering called Heart for the Harvest. As Paul encourages the Corinthians to give, may we also be encouaraged to sacrifce for the benefit of others.

ENCOUNTERING GOD THROUGH BIBLE STUDY:

Read 2 Corinthians 8:10-11.

1. How long ago did the Corinthians begin their ministry of giving?

2. Paul encourages the Corinthians to finish what they started. Do you find it easy or difficult to finish what you start? Who encourages you to continue on and finish projects that you have begun?

Read 2 Corinthians 8:12-15.

3. Have you ever wanted to give to a cause, but could not give what you did not have?

4. What does it mean to sacrifce with “equality”?

Read 2 Corinthians 8:16-24.

5. Why did Paul, Titus, and the two unnamed others travel together?

6. Paul gives an account of the people who are traveling with him–why?

7. How do you know whether to trust an organization, church, or charity with your gift?

8. If you have a history of giving, when did you start giving (tithes or other offerings) and why? If you have never given, what are some obstacles you face in giving?

9. What fruit or blessings have you witnessed as a result of your giving?

10. Please continue in fasting and prayer for our 2015 Heart for the Harvest offering. You can read about the projects that will be funded by this offering at faithpromise.org/h4h.

LEADER NOTES

1. One year ago
4. Each one should give in proportion to what he has. Also, verse 14 says that those who have plenty now should share with those who have little, and later those with whom they shared will share with them when they are in need.
5. To guard against criticism in their handling of the offering.
6. Paul is giving the Corinthians reason for trusting the brothers with their gift.
7. Reputable organizations perform both internal and external audits, and they make that information available to donors and potential donors. You can find a link to Faith Promise’s audit info here.