City Group Guide: The Kingdom Week 6 – “Giving”
1. Setting the Kingdom Vision (10 min)
In Matthew 6:1–4, Jesus teaches that Kingdom giving is not about recognition or applause—it’s about heart-level generosity. He warns against performing righteous acts for human approval, saying:
“Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
Kingdom giving flows from love and trust in God. It’s not measured by the size of the gift or the visibility, but by the heart behind it. True generosity reflects God’s character and blesses both giver and receiver.
Discussion:
Why do you think people often give for recognition rather than love?
How does giving secretly change your perspective on generosity?
What might God be inviting you to give from your heart this week?
(Leader note: emphasize that this isn’t about legalistic performance, but cultivating sincere generosity.)
2. Guide Overview: Kingdom Generosity (2 min)
Giving in God’s Kingdom is a reflection of our dependence on Him and our care for others. Jesus contrasts public giving for praise with quiet giving for God’s approval. Tonight, we’ll explore the heart behind our generosity and practice aligning our giving with Kingdom values.
3. Kingdom Practice: Reflection and Prayer (30 min)
Step 1: Read the Passage (5 min)
Read Matthew 6:1–4 aloud. Pause and ask: “Which word or phrase speaks to your current practice of giving?”
Step 2: Reflect (5 min)
In quiet prayer, ask:
“Where do I give for recognition rather than love?”
“What would it look like to give from a heart fully dependent on God?”
Step 3: Share and Pray (15 min)
Invite each person to share one area of generosity they want to cultivate privately. Pray together:
“Father, shape [name]’s heart to give generously, quietly, and freely. Let their generosity reflect Your love rather than seeking human praise.”
(Leader tip: model vulnerability by sharing your own giving journey or challenges.)
Step 4: Group Reflection (5 min)
Discuss together:
How does private generosity cultivate trust in God?
How can our giving, though unseen, impact our relationships or community?
4. Reflection: Kingdom Giving (5 min)
Re-read Matthew 6:4:
“Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Reflect: God sees the heart, not the applause. Where might He be inviting you to give in ways that only He sees this week?
5. Exercise for the Week Ahead (3 min)
Practice: Daily Generosity
Identify one small, intentional act of generosity to do in secret each day.
Pray before and after each act: “Lord, let this be for You, not for recognition.”
Notice how giving quietly shapes your heart and reliance on God.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, You call us to give with hearts fully Yours. Teach us to be generous without seeking praise. May our giving reflect Your love, blessing others and drawing us closer to You. Amen.”