“In Acts 20, Paul stops in Ephesus to speak to some dear friends whom he helped lead to Christ and disciple. He is on his way to Rome where he believes he may even be going off to his death and will never see them again. In verses 32-34 he shares with them the main thing that he wants them to remember for the rest of their lives.
Remember the gospel (you are sinners saved by grace) and live generously.
He adds that he showed them a life poured out in deeds of mercy to those in need and quotes the Lord Himself who said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
When we share our last words to those we love, we want to say the things that are most important, Paul left his good friends with believe the gospel and live radically generous lives.
Paul clearly sees these two things as absolutely inseparable. If we are a people who understand we are sinners truly saved by grace, then it is natural to live lives of radical generosity. Radical generosity looks differently for each of us as we surrender the time, talents, and treasures the Lord has entrusted to us for His kingdom wherever He leads.”
Tim Keller, pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, as recounted on receipt stuffer from my friends at Westminster Christian School, Elgin, IL.
Amen and Amen! The gospel of Jesus Christ and the radically generous life are inseparable!