Text: Malachi 3:6—12

Topic: What happens when we give

Introduction:

Illustration: Geraldo Rivera interviewed a soldier who had genuine love for his commanding officer.

Malachi 3 is a lover's quarrel between God and his people.

We rob God when we don't give.

Malachi 3:6—12

Illustration: Many lovers' quarrels are over money.

The robbery is in tithes and offerings God's people are withholding from him.

We need to look at this O. T. problem through the lens of the N. T.

2 Corinthians 8—9

We are to give generously to God's church.

Since obedient Israelites were giving 25% of their income to God, what should our standard be?

2 Corinthians 9:7

Acts 4:34—35

1 Corinthians 16:1—4

Illustration: Mathewson describes his personal financial commitment to Dry Creek Bible Church.

When we give, God blesses us abundantly.

Malachi 3:10—12

In the New Testament God's blessing has shifted in its emphasis from material blessings to spiritual blessings.

Illustration: Mathewson tells of a friend who adjusted his lifestyle in order to give 30% of his income.

Conclusion

Are we willing to accept God's challenge to give at a level that tests his ability to bless us?