GIVING IN GRACE

These studies are all taken from 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 which we are following at 9.00 am and 6.30 pm services. Money issues can run very deep and be very personal so do be aware of this.

Study 2
ACTION OF GRACE
2 Corinthians 8:10-24

If you can, get some glossy magazines and get the group to look through them and choose adverts that:

a) attract them,
b) make them angry,
c) have a strong message .

Invite the group to speak about their choices (without judging them!). At the end of the discussion, make the point that money messages surround us every day and make it difficult for us to think Christianly about it.

Read the passage

v 10: Paul is sensitive on the subject and knows that generosity can never be commanded.

Why does Paul use the word 'advice' rather than 'command'?

Wwhy is money such a sensitive subject?

How do you react when the church talks about money?

vv 11-15: For Paul willingness is an important characteristic in giving.

What does Paul hope will be achieved in giving?

What issues are there for us in deciding who to give to, whether church or charity, Christian organisation or non-Christian?

Does Paul say we should give what is leftover after our needs have been met or from what we have received from God in the first place?

How does this make you feel?

vv 16-24: Paul chooses three men to visit the Corinthians.

What does Paul want these men to do?

What personal qualities do they need to have?

Why is it important that money is carefully handled?

Is Paul only concerned about money here or something else?