Way of Christ: First Fruits

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 NLT

We don’t give to get. Our motivation for giving is our love for God 2 Cor. 9:6-7

Tithing is a non-essential doctrine of the church, but surrender is essential

Was Jesus interested in Zacchaeus’ money or his heart?

Luke 19: 2-10

Generosity should be a mark of the church

Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the first fruits of all your increaseProverbs 3:9-10

Notice that first fruits are about what AND when you give

Genesis 4:1-5 NASB Joshua 8:1-2 NLT

1st born that are clean are sacrificed. 1st born that are unclean are redeemed Exodus 13:11-15 NLT

Leviticus 23:9-10

Jesus fulfilled the First Fruits Sacrifice

1st Corinthians 15:20-23 NIV

Put something aside on the first day of the week

1st Corinthians 16:1-4 NIV

Don’t give to the church because we need it or because you should. Give because lives are being changed

We pay tithes, we contribute offerings, and we give alms.

Offerings imply sacrifice. Mark 12:41-44 NIV

Alms imply mercy Acts 3:1-3 NASB

Is God first in your heart? Matthew 6:21 NASB