Faithful Giving, Faithful God

Philippians 4:14-19

14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction.

15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

What does generous giving look like in the life of maturing believers? What principles about financial stewardship are evident in the life of the early church? This passage is a wonderful reminder about the priorities of the faithful giver and how money and possessions can be utilized to further the kingdom of God.

Faithful Giving:

The Philippians

with Paul’s

The Philippians gave

and were

through the

of giving.

Application:

The faithful giver

recognizing it is an

The faithful giver

in the

of God’s gracious

Additional Bible Passages to Reference:
Deuteronomy 14:22-29; 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 9:7,8; Matthew 6:19-21; Exodus 35-36; 1 Timothy 6:7,18; Luke 6:38, 12:33; 1 Peter 2:5; 2 Samuel 24: 18-25; Proverbs 22:9; Ephesians 3:20; Acts 20:35

For Personal Reflection:

In what ways did the Philippians share with Paul in his affliction?

Go back and reread Philippians 1:5. What is significant about this? How is it connected to our passage in Philippians chapter 4?

What distinction did the Philippians have in verse 15? What does this tell us about them?

When the believers in Philippi supported the work of the Lord who was it pleasing to, and what was it likened to?

What is your definition of the word sacrifice?

Looking again at verse 17 Paul demonstrates what his priorities are. What does this tell us about his attitude?

In this section of Philippians, Paul speaks of thankfulness and contentment. How are you thankful for how the Lord provides for your needs? In what areas do you need to allow Christ to meet your deepest needs?

Are you currently giving to support the work of the church? If not, why not?

My Personal Notes: