Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

Mark A. Copeland
b. To a rich ruler - Lk 18:18-27
2. Paul also connected sharing one’s wealth with laying up treasure in heaven - 1 Ti 6:17-19
a. To be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share
b. Storing up a good foundation for the time to come
c. To lay hold on eternal life
B. NOT THAT ETERNAL LIFE CAN BE PURCHASED...
1. Salvation is by grace through faith, not of works - Ep 2:8-9; Ti 3:5
a. We are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ - 1 Pe 1:18-19
b. And as children of God we are joint-heirs with Christ, recipients of every spiritual
blessing in Christ - Ro 8:16-17; Ep 1:3
2. But giving to the poor helps us to lay hold on eternal life
a. By freeing our hearts from covetousness (idolatry) - cf. Ep 5:5
b. By reminding us when our true reward will be received - cf. Lk 14:12-14
CONCLUSION
1. We are not called to asceticism...
a. God wants us to enjoy what we have - 1 Ti 6:17c; cf. Ecc 5:18-20
b. Yet proper enjoyment requires a heart for giving - cf. Ac 20:35
2. Thus we are to work with our hands...
a. Not just to provide for our families - 1 Tim 5:8
b. But also for others in need - Ep 4:28
3. Are we laying up treasure in heaven...?
a. Jesus told us why
b. Jesus (and Paul) also told us how
Have you given much thought as to how you can be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share?
Store up a good foundation for the time to come, and lay hold on eternal life...!
Topical Sermons 217