Sermon Notes for 7/15/2012 (Mark 12:41-44)
Things You Wanted to Know (But Couldn't Ask) About Giving

Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything--all she had to live on.

A. Common Misconceptions
1. Participation in God's work (not like "saisen"--giving money at a temple or shrine)
2. The amount is not what is most important
3. 10 percent is a standard (not the minimum or the maximum)
4. There is no need to compete with others

What does Your Church believe about giving?
1. Giving out of our own initiative
2. Handling tithes and offerings
3. Using tithes and offerings
4. Money is not the only way to give


Summary

Giving tithes and offerings are a way to participate in God's work using our money. In the Old Testament, the Levites did not need to earn their living, but focused on their priestly work because the people offered a tenth of their earnings to support them. This amount (10 percent) is a standard we use in our church, but the Bible also provides other standards for giving. We need to take a holistic view of giving by looking at the scriptures. If we don't, we can become legalistic or complacent as a church.

For Discussion
1) Why did Jesus praise the woman who gave two coins?
2) Why do we give our money?

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