:”STEWARDSHIP AND THE PURPOSE OF GIVING IN THE CHURCH”
Introduction
You are most welcome to this service in the precious name of our Lord and Saviour Christ Jesus.
Last Sunday our focus was being a prayerful church” which requires walking in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Today we focus on ‘Stewardship’ which means an ethic that embodies responsible planning and management of resources. The concept can be applied to the environment and nature, economies, health, property, information and theology. Specifically, today we shall focus on theology – Christian teachings on ‘Stewardship’ which is that which God has made us Stewards of four (4) things, namely (1) Bodies (2) Time (3) Possessions and (4) Talents:
- Bodies – to keep healthy and use wisely in His service.
- Time – we must use our time well to worship, serve, work, rest and recreation.
- Possessions – we must use them unselfishly to benefit us, others and to give glory to God.
- Talents and Gifts – a believing Christian has received the Holy Spirit and therefore has gifts for service. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are individually experienced (Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11; 1Corinthians 12:4-11, 20-30). A Christian needs to be ever open to the empowering and leading of the Spirit.
Secondly, on the purpose for giving in the church. the reason is for God’s work to grow in this world and souls won for the Kingdom of God.
Conclusion
The Christian Church needs every member to use his/her gift, talent, possessions, time and body in promoting God’s Kingdom (1Corinthians 12: 27-28). No one else can fulfil your role in the Church except you and also we shall be judged, based on the level of faithfulness as Stewards. UDONGO ALBERT FESTUS (Rev. Canon)
CHAPLAIN
QUESTIONS FOR HOME CELL BIBLE STUDY AND PERSONAL REFLECTION
Read carefully Matthew 25:14-30, Romans 12:6-8, Ephesians 4:11, 1Corinthians 12:4-11, 27-30 and reflect on the need to be a Good Steward, the challenges you have encountered as you plan to be a Good Steward and share with your Cell Members.
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