Next Week's Reading

October 11

2 Corinthians 8:1-9, Title: How Much Do We Truly Need?

1. Introduction
2. Background
1. The Jerusalem collection (Acts 24:17; Rom. 15:27-29; 1 Cor. 16:1-4; 2 Cor. 8-9)
2. Paul’s location and plans
3. Passage makes no sense in contemporary culture
1. Paul speaks of not straining yourself in giving
2. Media messages
1. You don’t have enough
2. You need _________ to be happy, fulfilled, attractive, current, complete, etc.
3. Look at __________
4. Consumer culture constantly promotes conspicuous consumption
3. I should not have to give, or give very little
4. How can we understand this passage?—start at the end
1. Exodus 16:18—obvious sounding passage
2. Larger story—manna
1. People kvetch (complain)
2. Morning dew brings manna
3. Take what you need for the day, not too much
5. Application
1. Decisions made in context of grace, not consumer culture
2. Take what you truly need
3. Too much becomes “foul”
4. “Fair balance”
6. Conclusion—why give?
1. Because God has given us an abundance
2. Because too much becomes “foul”

Future Readings

Oct. 18

2 Corinthians 9:1-10, Topic: Giving

Oct. 25

2 Corinthians 9:11-15, Topic: Giving

Nov. 1

Revelation 21:1-6a; John 11:32-44, Topic: All Saints’, those who have died

Nov. 8

Mark 12:38-44, Topic: Giving all to God

Nov. 15

TBA

Nov. 22

John 18:33-37, Topic: Christ the King, Jesus’ Kingship