The Biblical Basis

2 Corinthians 8:1-5 (NIV)
"And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will."

In reading through this passage , I am reminded of the basis to joyful and abundant giving to the Lord's work. The Apostle Paul noted three significant characteristics of the saints in the Macedonian churches:

1. They gave beyond their ability. (verse 3)
2. They appealed/asked to be able to give to the need (verse 4). Wow!! What a testimony.
3. And, all of this was caused by the fact that “they gave themselves first.” (Verse 5)

This, I argue, is the primary basis that caused the church to give joyfully and abundantly to the needs. Project S.O.W. provides the impetus for this to happen.