There’s no shortage of church buildings in America.  I know this may not be true of every city, but I am surprised when I drive around my community at how many unique gathering places are present for Christians.  A lot of resources have been given to construct these physical buildings, but how many of them are relevant to the community around them?

In Matthew 4:7, Jesus says, “If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that.” If your church were to answer Jesus’ question today, ‘how are you different from anyone else?’ what response would be given?

I believe the church has an opportunity to be relevant to those around them through relevant sacrificial giving of their time, talent and treasure.  Think about it.  What “religion” doesn’t encourage giving?  All of them have a component of generosity intertwined into their teaching.  So, what makes follower of Jesus any different than the religious?  I believe the answer is sacrificial giving.  Jesus set the ultimate example by giving His life.  He gave everything and He calls us to follow His example through a lifestyle of generosity.