Lesson 5: Does the Bible Promise Financial Rewards for Offerings? Student Handout

Theme: Examining the purpose of offerings and whether Scripture promises financial rewards for giving.

Key Scripture Passages:

• Malachi 3:10 “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse… Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven.”

• 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly… God loves a cheerful giver.”

• Luke 6:38 “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”

Teaching Highlights:

1. Purpose of Offerings in Scripture:

   • Offerings are acts of worship, reflecting trust and devotion to God.

   • Malachi 3:10 calls Israel to covenant faithfulness, using offerings to support the temple and community needs.

2. Critiquing Hyper-prosperity Theology:

   • Hyper-prosperity theology emphasizes giving as a means to receive financial rewards, distorting the relational and sacrificial intent of biblical giving.

3. Biblical Prosperity in Context:

   • True biblical giving reflects a heart aligned with God’s purposes, focusing on spiritual and relational blessings rather than personal gain.

     
     

Discussion Questions:

1. What does Malachi 3:10 teach about giving and faithfulness?

2. How do you interpret the blessings described in Luke 6:38?

3. Why is it important to avoid a transactional view of giving?

Reflection and Application:

1. Reflect on 2 Corinthians 9: Meditate on what it means to give cheerfully and generously.

2. Evaluate Your Giving: Prayerfully consider how your giving reflects your faith and priorities.

3. Act on Generosity: Look for opportunities to bless someone in need this week, either financially or through time and talents.

Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 9:7 "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Closing Prayer:

• Thank God for His faithfulness and provision.

• Pray for a heart that reflects Christ’s generosity in all acts of giving.

Session Objective:

By the end of this session, participants will:

1. Understand the biblical purpose of offerings as acts of worship and faith.

2. Recognize and refute transactional interpretations of Scripture regarding giving.

3. Develop a holistic view of generosity that aligns with God’s character and Kingdom values.