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I. The Christian's OBJECT.

1. Not self, but Christ.

2. Not the world, but heaven.

3. (And the minister of the gospel especially may add), not yours, but you.

II. The Christian's PRACTICE.

1. To do something for God's cause.

2. To devote all he possibly can for this purpose.

3. To do this as a privilege.

III. The Christian's REWARD.

1. It is personal and reciprocal — there is individual satisfaction and return of benefits given.

2. It is fruit — continually increasing in extent and value.

3. It is eternal — a reward with Christ, and His holy angels and spirits of just men made perfect.

(I. W. Tapper.)

I. The NATURE of Christian giving. It should be —

1. Systematic.

2. Proportionate.

3. Regarded as a plain and prescribed duty.

4. An honoured privilege.

II. ITS FRUIT OR REWARD.

1. The Divine approval and promise.

2. Soul satisfaction.

3. Eternal results in the world to come.

(G. Webber.)

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KJV: Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

WEB: Not that I seek for the gift, but I seek for the fruit that increases to your account.