Rock Harbor Christian Fellowship
"The Joy and Blessing of Giving" - Philippians 4:15-20
Join us as we discover The Joy of Good News as we study the book of Philippians!
Locations & Times
Rock Harbor Christian Fellowship
1475 Quintana Rd, Morro Bay, CA 93442, USA
Sunday 8:30 AM
Sunday 10:00 AM
Big Idea: A generous heart blesses others and generates tremendous joy.
I. The Joy of Giving (vv. 15-18).
A. Despite being in prison, Paul is filled with joy. Why? How? Because of Jesus’ very real presence with Paul and the clear work of the Holy Spirit in the Philippian church, seen in their prayerful concern and generous giving. For Paul, the joy is not just in the gift, but in the spiritual growth of the church that generates lasting fruit for God’s glory (cf. Col. 3:17).
B. Giving fuels joy through:
1. The grace of giving (vv. 15-16; cf. 2 Cor. 9:12-15) – Giving is a recognition of God’s grace toward us.
2. The heart of giving (cf. 2 Cor. 9:6-7) – This is less about the amount than it is about our heart in giving.
3. The compassion of giving (vv. 17-18) – When our giving helps comfort and encourage others.
C. Paul’s gratitude is not just for the financial gift, but also for the partnership it produces with the church in the proclamation of the Gospel. Ultimately, giving is one significant way we extend God’s grace and demonstrate Messiah Jesus to a needy world.
II. The Blessing of Giving (vv. 17-20)
A. As thankful as Paul is for the generous giving of the Philippians, he is even more encouraged by the blessings they receive for their sacrifice. Paul’s concern was less about his comfort than in seeing the church grow in the grace and knowledge of Messiah Jesus (cf. 2 Pet. 3:18).
B. Giving is a blessing because:
1. It keeps our eyes on true treasure (v. 17; cf. Matt. 6:19-21).
2. It helps to meet the needs of God’s people (v. 18; cf. 2 Cor. 9:12a).
3. It brings glory to God (v. 18; cf. 2 Cor. 9:12b).
4. It reminds us of God’s promise to meet all our needs through Messiah Jesus (v. 19; cf. Matt. 6:25-26).
C. Giving not only reflects the grace of our Savior, but it also blesses us spiritually because it frees us from the materialism so often prevalent in the world, and helps us to focus on things of eternal significance (cf. 2 Cor. 4:16-18).