Yesterday we observed the generosity of the Antioch Christians: Acts 11:29-30— "So each of the disciples, according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brothers who lived in Judea. This they did, sending it to the elders by means of Barnabas and Saul."
1. They gave voluntarily and cheerfully, “So each of the disciples…”
“Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
2. They gave proportionally, “according to his ability…”
3. Their giving was purposeful and determined, “determined to send relief to the brothers who lived in Judea…”
4. Their giving was entrusted to the elders (“Storehouse giving”), “This they did, sending it to the elders by means of Barnabas and Saul.” See also Malachi 3:10; Acts 4:35, 37; and 1 Corinthians 16:2.
5. The generosity of these Christians was a mark of their spiritual growth.
“But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” 2 Corinthians 8:7 NIV
Bible teacher Gene Getz also considers the "who" these Antioch Christians sent relief to. It was the church at Jerusalem who sent Barnabas to travel to Antoch to disciple the these new Christians. Now they have the opportunity to return a blessing. Getz refers to this as "reciprocity giving."
Here's Gene Getz teaching from Acts 11:29:
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