We respond to the gospel by bringing our first and best because God gave His first and best in Jesus. Generosity is a gift from God that reflects our love for Him and transforms us into the likeness of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. As we empower generations to love God, love people, and put that love into action, we embrace generosity as a core expression of our faith.
Foundational Truths
- God is First. God Went First.
God is first in all things (Genesis 1:1-31), and He demonstrated His love by going first through Christ (Romans 5:8). Therefore, we bring our first and best to Him because Jesus is preeminent and first in all things. (Colossians 1:15-20; Genesis 4:2-5; Matthew 6:25-34)
Principles of Generosity
- We are Gospel Driven
Our giving is motivated by the gospel: Jesus died for our sins, and our lives are fully surrendered to Him. (2 Corinthians 9:1-15)
- Money Reveals the Heart
Money is not our idol; rather, it reveals where our idols lie. (Matthew 6:1-34)
- Our Hope is in Eternity, Not Earth
We give because our hope is rooted in eternal things, not in earthly possessions. (1 Timothy 6:6-19, Matthew 6:19-21, Luke 12:13-21)
- We Trust in God’s Provision
Investing in God’s economy reflects our trust in His provision over the world’s economy. (Mark 10:17-31)
- We are a Conduit of God’s Grace
God enriches us in every way to be generous on every occasion, producing thanksgiving to Him. Generosity flows from His grace. (2 Corinthians 9:1, 2 Corinthians 9:11)
- Giving is a Privilege
Generosity is a joyful privilege, not an obligation. We don’t have to give; we get to give. (2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15, Luke 18:9-14)
As followers of Christ, we give in response to God’s ultimate gift: His Son. Our generosity reflects His character, advances His kingdom, and draws us closer to Him. We give with joy, trust, and hope, knowing that our treasures are stored in heaven.
