Church Culture Part 5

Acts 2:41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

Culture: A system of beliefs shared by a group of people

Cultivating Culture

Early Church impact on culture

Acts 17:6 But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren to the rulers of the city, crying out, “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too.

A Spirit of Generosity

Acts 2:44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common,

Acts 2:45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.

The value of life isn’t determined by how much you accumulate, but how much of your life you give away.

10 times mentioned in the Bible about generosity than prayer

3 Times mentioned in the Bible about generosity than love

Live so you can Give!

Acts 20:35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Proverbs 11:25 The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.

Choose to Give Joyfully

II Corinthians 9:6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

II Corinthians 9:7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.

There is a place in your brain that releases hormones when you are generous

Choose to Give Selfishly

II Corinthians 8:5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.

If you give yourself, all other giving is easy.

Choose to Give Willingly

II Corinthians 8:9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.

You don’t have to Give – you get to Give

Choose to Give Thankfully

Psalms 116:12 What shall I render to the Lord For all His benefits toward me?

II Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

We cannot outgive God