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Partnership in the Gospel
Philippians 1:5

I.    Introduction
      A.  The elders are presenting the budget to us this morning.
      B.  Our contribution is a powerful way to accomplish God’s purposes for His church.
          1.  Money is necessary to the functioning of the church.
          2.  It has always been the case that contribution is an integral part of the work of the church.
II.  The New Testament church was empowered by those who gave.
      A.  Paul was able to be more effective because of the support he received.
          1.  He was able to go more places than when he worked to support himself (Acts 18:1-3)
          2.  He could demonstrate the integrity of his ministry (II Corinthians 11:7-9)
      B.  Paul was able to to these things because he had “partners” in the gospel.
          1.  Paul describes their relationship as a partnership (Philippians 1:3-5; 4:15-17)
          2.  Those who gave received more than just a “good feeling” (Philippians 4:18; Matthew 6:4)
III.  We have the opportunity to be “partners” in the gospel.
      A.  We have been involved in the work of the kingdom here
          1.  By investing in the facility, establishing a presence in the community.
          2.  By partnering with those who preach the word.
      B.  We have been involved in the work beyond our own community
          1.  In Costa Rica
          2.  In Brazil
      C.  Now we are looking at stepping up our commitment
      D.  Let’s be supportive of this work and of our plans for the coming year.
          1.  Going to God in prayer
          2.  Committing ourselves to giving