The sermon titled "Giving Grace" by Fred Evans addresses the doctrine of grace in the context of Christian giving, particularly as articulated in Galatians 6:6-10. Evans argues that genuine giving should stem from a recognition of the grace received from God rather than a legalistic obligation, drawing a distinction between New Testament giving and the Old Testament practice of tithing. Key Scripture references include Galatians 6:7-8, which emphasizes the principle of sowing and reaping, and 1 Corinthians 9:14, supporting the idea that those who minister the gospel should derive material support from their ministry. The practical significance hinges on the believer's responsibility to support the preaching of the gospel freely and joyfully, illustrating the heart of the giver as one transformed by God's grace.
Key Quotes
“You give unto the Lord... That's not just the man, but the reason is not the man. Don’t support the man just because you like the man or you care for the man. It is because of the gospel that I proclaim to you.”
“It is the power of God. It is the means by which God communicates life and faith to the sinner.”
“You want it? Keep it. Please. I’m begging you. Keep it. If you will not give willingly, please don’t give at all. God doesn’t need your money. He just doesn’t.”
“The most important thing is that this gospel be preached. That this word be heard.”
The Bible emphasizes the importance of giving grace through support for those who teach the gospel, as seen in Galatians 6:6.
In Galatians 6:6, Paul instructs believers to support those who teach the Word of God. This support is not based on personal affection for the teacher, but on the value of the gospel they proclaim. True giving reflects our gratitude for the grace received and is an act of love towards God and His servants. It signifies our understanding that everything we have is a gift from God, thus we should respond with generosity.
Galatians 6:6
Salvation is by grace alone as taught throughout Galatians, emphasizing that it is entirely the work of God without human contribution.
The book of Galatians is fundamentally about grace, arguing against the belief that rituals like circumcision or adherence to the law contribute to salvation. Paul clearly states that salvation is the work of God from beginning to end. Believers are cautioned against adding any works to their faith because doing so undermines the complete and finished work of Christ, showing that salvation is indeed a free gift of God's grace, unearned and fully sufficient.
Galatians 5:1, Ephesians 2:8-9
Preaching is vital as it communicates the gospel, which is the power of God unto salvation.
Preaching serves as the primary means by which God imparts faith and life to sinners. As Paul states in 1 Corinthians 1, the gospel preached is foolishness to those who are perishing, yet it is the power of God to those who believe. The necessity of preaching cannot be overstated, especially in a time when many regard it as outdated. It is through preaching that individuals are taught about their sin and their need for a Savior, thus emphasizing its critical role in Christian life and the propagation of the gospel.
1 Corinthians 1:17-18, Romans 10:14-15
Christians should give to support the gospel ministry and out of gratitude for the grace they have received.
Believers are encouraged to give to those who preach and teach the Word out of love and as an act of gratitude for the grace they have received. This giving is not to be confused with tithing under the law but is a free and willing response to God's grace. As Paul teaches in Galatians 6:6, supporting the ministry is a manifestation of the gospel at work in the believer's life, demonstrating both stewardship and a heart that desires to see the furtherance of the gospel.
Galatians 6:6, 2 Corinthians 9:7-8
Sowing to the Spirit means living in accordance with the Holy Spirit, which leads to eternal life.
Sowing to the Spirit entails aligning one's life with the guidance and fruit of the Holy Spirit as expressed in Galatians 6:8. When believers act in faith, relying on God's grace, they cultivate a life that bears spiritual fruit, contrasting with sowing to the flesh, which leads to corruption. The expectation from sowing to the Spirit is life everlasting, illustrating the rewards of living in harmony with God's will and empowers believers to trust in His promises.
Galatians 6:8, Romans 8:1-2
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