In the sermon “Generosity Is Influence,” the speaker builds on the foundation of generosity as freedom and love, moving into the powerful reality of how giving makes a difference. Using the story of Millard and Linda Fuller—who gave up their millions to start Habitat for Humanity and eventually provided homes for 62 million people—the sermon illustrates that true liberty for kingdom righteousness comes when we have little equity in the things of this world.
The message focuses on the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippian church, a community he founded starting with a woman named Lydia. This young, affluent church became Paul’s most faithful partner in ministry. Their generosity demonstrates four key areas of influence:
- Generosity Influences the Kingdom: Giving is not optional; it is a command (1 Timothy 6:17-18). When we support the true preaching of the Word, that Word is guaranteed to accomplish its purpose (Isaiah 55:11). Whether through opening our homes for “Connect Groups” or supporting global missionaries, our resources ensure the gospel reaches the lost.
- Generosity Influences the Giver: Contrary to the enemy’s lie that giving leads to lack, Paul teaches that giving credits our “heavenly account.” While earthly wealth is temporary and susceptible to theft or decay, the treasures we store in heaven are secure for eternity.
- Generosity Influences God: Our giving is described as a “fragrant offering” and an “acceptable sacrifice pleasing to God” (Philippians 4:18). Just as we can grieve the Holy Spirit, we can also please Him through cheerful, sacrificial giving that proves we treasure Christ above our possessions.
- Generosity Influences God’s Promises: The famous promise that “God will meet all your needs” (Philippians 4:19) is conditional. It was written to a people who were first generous to the work of God. We unlock God’s provision by first being faithful with our resources.
The sermon concludes with Martin Luther’s observation that a Christian requires three conversions: the heart, the mind, and the purse. Mature spiritual growth is marked by a “converted purse”—a life where the urgency of the gospel dictates how we spend our time, our talents, and our money.
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Are you ready to influence the kingdom and grow your heavenly account? We invite you to take the next step in your spiritual maturity by making a commitment to kingdom building. Check out our missions board to see how your generosity is supporting missionaries in Burundi, South Sudan, and Romania today.
