From the Inside Out
A Grace Filled Life
Grace to give and receive (2|2)
Pages 237-241
Matthew 5:43-48 (NIV) “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?”
Acts 2:44-47 (NIV) All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day, they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Why do you think churches sometimes struggle to find the right balance between maintaining beautiful, welcoming spaces and prioritizing care for people in need?
How do the conditions and atmosphere of a church building affect your sense of worship, belonging, and community? What message do you think your own church space communicates to visitors and the local community?
When you think about generosity, do you usually associate it with money or with how you give your time, attention, and care? How can you personally cultivate a lifestyle of everyday generosity in your relationships?
How does understanding that everything in the Christian life flows from grace shape our view of church life, service, and personal decision-making?
In what areas of your life do you find it hardest to rest in grace rather than striving for self-justification or approval?