The 7th sermon in our journey through the book of Malachi, under the overall heading of – “From the ashes of failure to the anticipated future” The practical application of the teaching will be worked out in the house groups.
The service will also
include communion
and reception into membership
So far we have looked at the failings of the people of Israel in Malachi’s day, but how in spite of this God still loves them and desires that they should repent. This passage looks at the tithing of our money and time in the Lord’s service.
1. What was the tithe? The tithe was a tenth of a person’s income that was dedicated to the Lord for the upkeep of the priests and Levites, the work of the temple and the relief of the poor. Numbers 18:21; Deuteronomy 14:22-29; Deuteronomy 26:12.
2. Should the Christian tithe, or was it just part of the Old Testament law? Jesus condemned those who tithed merely out of ritual duty – Matthew 23:23. The New Testament emphasises not the amount of the gift, but the attitude of worship behind it. We should give generously – 2 Corinthians 9:6/7 and regularly – 1 Corinthians 16:2.
3. To whom should we give – to the church or to good causes?
4. What does the Bible teach about our attitude to money and money management?
(I) We should share what we have with the needy – Luke 3:11.
(ii) We should be honest in all our financial dealings – Luke 3:13
(iii) We should be content with what we have – for we are entrusted with it by the Lord – Luke 3:14.
5, How is it possible that we could rob God?
(I) We can rob God of our worship – as the people in Malachi’s day were doing. – Malachi 1:13. Is worship a burden to us?
(ii) We can rob God of our service. He has given us gifts and talents to use for Him. He requires of us a “living sacrifice” – Romans 12:1.
(iii) We can rob God of our witness. Is what we do and say glorifying to God? – 2 Timothy 4:2
(iv) We can rob God of our money – do we give generously and regularly?
6. God has promised us great rewards and blessings if we obey His commands – Malachi 3:10.
Service Details
Theme: “How is it possible for us to rob God?”
Reading: Malachi 3 v 6 – 12
Preacher: Alan Cole
Led by: Robin Brenchley
