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MUSIC & SCRIPTURE

God Is With Us (Psalm 46:10-11a) – Louder Than Creation by Michael Olson (North Point)

Raise Up The Crown (Psalm 148:13) – Hymns Ancient & Modern by Chris Tomlin (Passion)

The Solid Rock (Psalm 18:2) – Original Arrangement

I Lift My Hands (Lamentations 3:22-23) – Hello Love by Chris Tomlin

You Never Let Go (Psalm 23:4) – Beautiful News by Matt Redman

TEACHING: The Next Generation Church – Lives Generously

Our natural tendency is to believe that it is always better to receive than it is to give, and so we typically feel guilty when addressed about generosity. But in 2 Corinthians 8, scripture gives us an equation for generosity that is only possible through the grace of Christ Jesus: Great Trial + Tremendous Poverty = Joyful Generosity. Guilt leads to “spot giving.” Gratefulness leads to a lifestyle of generosity.

CLICK HERE FOR THE AUDIO AND VIDEO

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. If Pastor Mike were to give an abbreviated version of last weekend’s message, what two points would you have him include, no matter what?
2. Read and discuss 2 Corinthians 8:1-12. What do these verses tell you about the nature of man? What do these verses tell you about Jesus?
3. What practical application do these verses have for our church? What are the implications for you personally?
4. Why is guilt so often associated with money? Why is guilt a poor motivator toward generosity?
5. How is Jesus the ultimate motivator toward generosity?
6. A couple weeks ago, the discussion questions included this question regarding “The Cheerio Principle”: “What ‘Cheerios’ in your life do you have trouble letting go of?” Do you feel you’ve grown in that area over the last few weeks? Why or why not?
7. How do you feel that you are doing in the area of Christ-centered, gospel-proclaiming generosity? What adjustments could you make in your life in order to grow in joyful generosity? Spend some time in prayer for these as a small group.