In this week’s message, Pastor Mark explains Jesus’s teachings about generosity and reward, particularly how Christians should practice righteousness not for public recognition but for God’s approval. The message traces generosity throughout scripture, from God’s creation to Old Testament tithing practices to Jesus’s teachings, emphasizing that generosity should flow from the heart in all areas of life. Using personal stories about extraordinary acts of giving, Pastor Mark challenges the congregation to reframe their understanding of reward beyond financial security and to honestly evaluate whether they’re giving according to their true ability, inviting them to upcoming financial stewardship sessions to explore these concepts further.
Reflection Questions
- What stuck out in today’s message? What did you find challenging and encouraging? Did you learn anything new?
- Think about generous people in your life (past and present). What characteristics to do they have? What did you notice about their behavior and motivation?
- Read Matthew 6:1-4 . What are the two types of rewards Jesus shares?
- Define “practicing your righteousness” from what we see in this passage (read v. 5-18 for additional examples for your definition).
- How do we see this passage in light of Matthew 5:14-16 and 5:42?
- Why is generosity a countercultural example to the world around us?
- Would you describe yourself as someone who lives a life of generosity? Why or why not?
- What aspects of reward do you need to reframe your understanding to look like Jesus’s example of reward?
- Take time this week to reevaluate my posture toward generosity: What areas of your life are you more generous? What areas of your life do you struggle to be generous? What thoughts and/or emotions do you recognize in these struggle areas? What would it look like to take a step towards more generous living this week?
