A LIFE WELL LIVED

While pagan temples may not be a big draw today, the temptation of idols is alive and real.  In fact, the most attractive idol is our self! Our excuses for not giving more may be about our loyalties and values more than the excuse we verbalize.  We are told by Jesus to "lay up treasure in heaven" because our hearts follow our money!  The invitation isn't so much about "need," but it has its roots in avoiding idols. Even good, worthy, enjoyable things can elevate to the place of primary purpose of our lives and the consumer of all our resources.  Choosing the right God removes the power of the idol.

Understanding tithing is important for today.  It seems sort of arbitrary that God would say that 10 off the top of our increase is claimed by him! Is this still true for today?  Is "tithing" some old covenant law like circumcision that is no longer valid for Christians today?  Or are the reasons behind tithing still valid and still important? How are tithe dollars used, and what's the biblical mandate?

The generosity of God towards us inspires our generosity.  When we think we are being really generous, it’s important to remember that we aren't' even being generous with our own stuff, but only what God has put under our management. At the same time, Scripture is clear that whoever sows generously will reap generously.  How can we escape the scarcity mindset and live with more open hands (and billfolds)?

We will look at the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son to see how service and evangelism are two sides of the same coin, not too distant kin from faith and works. We first come in and receive mercy which every prodigal needs, and then having received mercy, we go out to care for our fellow humans as the Samaritan exemplifies.