Why Do We Give to the Church?

This message confronts us with a powerful truth: generosity isn't about changing our behavior—it's about transforming our hearts. Drawing from Luke 19, where Jesus weeps over Jerusalem because people don't recognize the path to peace, we're reminded that God's Word serves as our timeless guide, not a buffet where we pick only what tastes comfortable. The teaching challenges us to embrace Scripture as 'all God-breathed,' useful for teaching, rebuking, and correcting—even when it pushes against our natural inclinations. We're invited to understand that the battle between flesh and spirit, described in Galatians, keeps us from simply doing whatever we want because that path leads to emptiness. The most profound insight? Giving moves us beyond ourselves. Whether it's time, talent, or treasure, generosity awakens something in our spirit that consumption never can. We see this principle in 1 Peter 4, which calls us to use our gifts to serve others as faithful stewards. The message isn't about guilt or manipulation—it's about positioning ourselves for the favor of God by living with open hands. When we serve, volunteer, and give generously, we're not just helping others; we're discovering the life Jesus promised—the abundant life that comes when we stop focusing solely on ourselves and start investing in eternity.