TITLE: The Problem of Giving

TEXT: Exodus 25:1-8

PROPOSITION: Our giving is only valid when we make a personal offering to our God.

QUESTION: What?

KEY WORD: Conditions

READING: Same

INTRODUCTION:

            1. David 2 Samuel 24:18-25

                        a. What has your offering cost you today?

                        b. "Miss-A-Meal" World Bible School

                        c. What have you given up for God?

            2. Learn a lesson from the CONDITIONS of Israel

1. Conditions of the Sermon

            1. Slavery, poverty

            2. Bring an offering

                        a. Sacrifice = "have to do this"

                        b. Offering = above and beyond

            3. With his heart

            4. Willingly

                        a. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Not grudgingly, of necessity

                        b. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Begged us to accept the gift

2. Conditions of Giving

            1. Exodus 35:21-29

            2. Exodus 36:3

3. Conditions of Over-giving

            1. Exodus 36:4-7

            2. Elders would love to have this "problem"

            3. When people give in response to their blessings-

                        a. They will give more.

                        b. Church will have TOO MUCH to handle.

Conclusion:  Two stories

            1. The tenth apple

            2. "Sell all that you have."  Mark 10:21