Money and the gospel

Matthew 6:1-4, don't give for others to see. Give for God to see.
Acts 2, learn from the beginning

Matthew
Talents: Money is a tool for others.

But why do rich people kill themselves for more money?

Jim Carey, "I wish everyone could have all the money they ever wanted so they would know it doesn't satisfy. "

Money as a drug for self, (verses).

Bennett to giving
1. Unleashes God's blessings on a community. Acts 2, people have because hearts were changed.
- No needy people among them.
- everyone contributed... out of this world!
- favor with all
- favor with God, "being saved"
2. Protection from worry and anxiety. Matt 6:25-30,33
- Giving to and living for the kingdom of God is the way to living worry free.
- Luke 16:13, one master to serve

3. Money brings self reliance, God teaches reliance when we trust Him with our lives.
Acts 20, "blessed life that no one wants" giving.
- when we give we get more, Talents
2 cor 9:11, enriched brings generosity
- am I experiencing this rhythm in life?

4. Prepares us for Christ's return
Luke 12:47-48, much given much required
- case study in management
- a wise manager knows she's not the owner
- a foolish manger believes accounting is far away (long journey)
Application: I want to be ready to open the books and give an accounting for what I've done with the gifts given.

Giving is a matter of trusting God
- when you don't give your hurting yourself
- not a tax break

2 cor 9:7, giving decided in their heart, not reluctantly. Planning, not thoughtlessly.
- not raising money but maturing his people
- take giving seriously, maturity is generosity
- last thing baptized is the wallet

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
Romans 12:6‭-‬13 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/rom.12.6-13.ESV