A Church That Shares | Sermon 11/23/2025

1 Corinthians 16:1-12

The passage teaches that after addressing the Corinthians’ many problems and grounding their hope in the resurrection, Paul closes his letter with practical commands that strengthen unity in the church through generous, self-giving love. First, believers are to share what they have, giving regularly, proportionately, and willingly to support needy saints—especially the persecuted Jerusalem church to whom Gentile Christians are indebted for the gospel. Second, Christians are to share themselves, as Paul models by planning an extended visit, inviting their partnership in his ministry, and submitting all plans to God’s will. True fellowship means letting others into our lives, bearing burdens, and choosing the good of others over personal comfort. Third, believers are to share their community, receiving servants like Timothy with honor, peace, and support, rather than suspicion or contempt, and extending warm fellowship to all who belong to Christ. The sermon concludes by pointing to Jesus as the supreme example: He shared His riches, His very self, and His kingdom with His people—therefore His church must reflect His generosity, hospitality, and sacrificial love toward one another.