Identity - Giving - Richard Sutton - 12-20-2020
Teachers
Lesson Summary
Richard Sutton led a Bible study on the gift of giving, the fifth of seven spiritual gifts Paul outlined in Romans 12. He began by connecting the Christmas season's emphasis on giving to the broader biblical principle of spiritual gifts, noting that seasonal songs like "The 12 Days of Christmas" remind us of the importance of generosity. Sutton explained that while all believers are called to give, some are specially gifted with the motivation and ability to give generously. He provided detailed word studies of the Greek terms: metadidomi (to impart or share) and haplotes (simplicity, sincerity, openness of heart without self-seeking motives). The teacher emphasized that givers serve as models who inspire others to generosity, countering humanity's natural inclination toward self-preservation and materialism. He referenced Psalm 50 to establish that all possessions ultimately belong to God, making generous giving an act of faithful stewardship. Sutton then began examining Acts 4 as a practical example of how the early church demonstrated radical generosity, with believers of one heart and mind sharing possessions to meet one another's needs. The overarching message was that recognizing the gift of giving—both in ourselves and in others—transforms our understanding of generosity as a spiritual calling rooted in trust in God's provision.
Key Scriptures
So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
He who gives, let him give generously.