Prepare: Giving should be a natural result of a Christian's walk with the Lord.
Read: Romans 15:22-33
The Gentiles' ministry to the Jews: The Gentile Christians in Greece made a special offering to the poor Jews in Jerusalem and Paul had to take it to Jerusalem (2 Cor.8:9). Paul looked on this offering as the repaying of a debt. The gentiles had received spiritual wealth from the Jews and the Gentiles now share their material wealth with the Jews. This gift was an expression of their love and gratitude. It also helped to unite the Jews and Gentiles in the church. A few days ago, we saw that disunity and disagreement do not glorify God, while mutual care and concern unite believers together. The Christians in Greece have set a good example to all believers in the present day church. Are you concerned about the need of believers around you and in your church?
It was considered to be fruit: Not only was this offering a repayment of debt, but also a 'fruit'. This act of giving was a natural result of their walk with the Lord (John 15:1-8). When the life of the Spirit flows through a church or a group of beleivers, giving becomes natural. Paul describes giving as a miracle of grace that occured in the churches in MACEDONIA (2 Cor.8:1-5). If you do not have this grace, ask God for it. Paul closes this chapter, urging the church at Rome to 'wrestle together' in prayer for him.
Respond: Father God, give me the grace of giving to You and Your ministries, without counting the cost.
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