Doing Life Together As We EXCEL In Grace

This morning we are going to look at the 3rd E: Excel into Spiritual Maturity, which is rooted in love. The focus will be how we are to excel in Grace, or more specifically acts or disciplines of grace. Paul writes to the Corinthians: "But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also." (2 Corinthians 8.7) Paul is affirming the believers in Corinth in how they excel in everything. He then encourages them to also excel in "this act of grace." He is referring to their Christian offering or stewardship. As one commentary puts it: "We humans are selfish by nature. Generosity is not something that comes naturally but is the result of God's grace in our lives. This is why Paul refers to the Corinthian offering as “this act of grace." As we look at the early church, let us fix our heart, soul and mind upon the things that will help us grow into the fullness of Christ.