Audio Sermons
Have we Robbed God? (I)
Building Up the Church of Christ:
Have we Robbed God?
Life B-P Church Worship Services, 25th August 2024
Text: Malachi 3:6-18
Introduction
Malachi was addressing the Israelites who were familiar with worshipping God, but their fervor was short-lived although they had witnessed God’s deliverance from their enemies and His providence in rebuilding the temple. They departed from His ordinances and soon became rebellious, oppressive, corrupt, unfaithful and idolatrous. There was no fear of God, and their hearts were as hard as ever.
The Unchanging God (v6)
Despite their disobedience and unfaithfulness, God was unchanging because He is the faithful and covenant keeping God. Therefore, the sons of Jacob were not consumed. We did not choose God, but He has chosen us because of His unchanging love, grace and mercy.
The Unrepentant People (v7-9, 13-15)
Israel had a long track record of ingratitude, rebellion and disobeying God (Deuteronomy 31:27-29). They violated the 8th commandment, “thou shall not steal” by robbing God of His tithes and offerings meant to support the Levites.
Although the New Testament does not explicitly command tithing in the same way as the Old Testament, it does emphasize the principles of generosity, stewardship, and giving out of love and gratitude. God is the Owner and Giver of all things, who we are and what we have belong to Him. We ought to give whole-heartedly what belong to Him as exemplified by Christ’s giving of Himself.
The Unfailing Promises of God (v7b, 10-12)
God’s promises are yea and amen. God is a not man that He should lie ... hath He said, and shall He not do it? Or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good? (Numbers 23:19). When God opens the window of heaven, He does not promise material return or prosperity, but He shall supply all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
The Unwavering Fear & Service (v16–18)
The remnants are the faithful ones who fear the Lord, trust in Him and speak often one to another and who think upon His name. They are His precious jewels whose names are written in the book of remembrance. As recipient of God’s mercy and grace, let us give Him our all; time, talent and money, willingly, cheerfully and sacrificially, to serve Him (Romans 12:1-2). Giving that costs us nothing is WORTHLESS (2 Samuel 24:24) and the right time to give of our best to Him is NOW!
Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to rob God in tithes and offerings?
- Discuss in what other ways we have robbed God?
- Share how the Lord had “opened” the window of heaven to bless you in your giving to Him.