Lesson 6: Are Offerings a Perversion of God’s Word? Student Handout

Theme: Understanding the biblical purpose of offerings and addressing the misuse of teachings about giving.

Key Scripture Passages:

• Genesis 4:3-5 “The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor.”

• 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 “They gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded for the privilege of sharing in this service.”

• Matthew 6:1-4 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”

Teaching Highlights:

1. Purpose of Offerings in Scripture:

   • Offerings are acts of worship and faith, reflecting trust in God’s provision.

   • Giving is meant to honor God and serve His purposes, not to guarantee personal financial gain.

2. Critiquing Hyper-prosperity Theology:

   • Hyper-prosperity theology distorts the purpose of offerings, treating them as transactions for personal rewards.

   • Biblical giving emphasizes faith, community care, and stewardship, not manipulation or guarantees of wealth.

3. Biblical Prosperity in Context:

   • True biblical giving fosters spiritual growth, communal blessings, and eternal rewards.

   • Material wealth may follow, but it is not the focus or goal of faithful giving.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does Scripture define the purpose and heart behind offerings?

2. What are the dangers of treating giving as a transactional act?

3. How can we cultivate a heart of generosity that honors God?

Reflection and Application:

1. Pray About Your Offerings: Seek God’s guidance to align your giving with His will.

2. Practice Secret Giving: Follow Matthew 6:3-4 by giving privately this week, focusing on worshiping God through your generosity.

3. Evaluate Your Heart: Reflect on whether your offerings are motivated by worship or obligation.

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 the privilege of giving as an act of worship.

• Pray for discernment to give faithfully and to align your offerings with God’s purposes.

Session Objective:

By the end of this session, participants will:

1. Understand the biblical purpose of offerings.

2. Recognize and refute manipulative teachings on giving.

3. Develop a deeper appreciation for offerings as acts of worship and faith.