Browse Bible Study Resources

The fellowship of ministering to the saints

Text: 2 Corinthians 8
14 September 2008

(I) THE CONCEPT OF FELLOWSHIP

1. Associated with Salvation in Christ

“…called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9

2. Associated with Ministering to the Saints

“Imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.” 2 Corinthians 8:4

(II) THE CONTEXT OF THIS PROFOUND VIEW OF FELLOWSHIP

1. The poverty of the Macedonian churches noted

a) “…deep poverty…” 2 Corinthians 8:2

b) “…beyond their ability…” 2 Corinthians 8:3

2. The difficult circumstances that confronted the Macedonian Churches

“…in a great trial of affliction…” 2 Corinthians 8:2

(III) THE CHALLENGE OF THE MACEDONIAN CHURCHES

1. Collected a love gift for Paul to minister with

2. Conviction within their hearts that they want to do this

a) Joy

“…abundance of their joy…” 2 Corinthians 8:2

b) Liberality

“…riches of their liberality.” 2 Corinthians 8:2

c) Imploring

“Imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift…” 2 Corinthians 8:4a

d) Fellowship

“…and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.” 2 Corinthians 8:4b

(IV) CONTRIBUTION TO THE CONCEPT OF FELLOWSHIP

1. Friendship

With Paul and his company of servants of God

a) Happy to be associated with Paul

b) Proud to be associated with his ministry

2. Fellowship

a) Identifying with others less fortunate

b) Caring for people in a practical manner

(V) CONCLUSION OF PAUL

1. Experiencing the grace of God in its fullness

“Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia” 2 Corinthians 8:1

2. Example to others (2 Corinthians 8:6-7)

“…the churches of Macedonia” 2 Corinthians 8:1

3. Encouragement to cultivate this grace of giving

“But as you abound in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us – see that you abound in this grace also.” 2 Corinthians 8:7