True Generosity

State of the Church — Romans Series | Part 7Pastor Dan Harrison | Ravenna Assembly of God

What if true generosity isn’t measured by how much we give, but by how much of ourselves we’re willing to share?

In today’s message, “True Generosity,” Part 7 of Pastor Dan Harrison’s State of the Church — Romans Series, we explore what it really means to live generously, love our neighbors, and demonstrate the transforming power of Jesus Christ through authentic Christian relationships.

Drawing from Romans 12:13, Pastor Dan challenges us to look beyond financial giving and discover the deeper meaning of biblical generosity.

“Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” — Romans 12:13 (ESV)

At first glance, this verse may seem like a simple instruction to give to those in need. But when we examine the original Greek language, we discover something much more meaningful.

The word translated contribute is connected to koinonia, a word describing fellowship, participation, and genuine connection with others.

True generosity isn’t simply handing someone a gift, writing a check, or offering assistance when it’s convenient. It’s becoming involved in people’s lives, understanding their struggles, and being willing to walk alongside them.

Because genuine Christian love isn’t transactional. It’s relational.

Pastor Dan shares a deeply personal challenge about the familiar phrase, “If you need anything, let me know.” While those words may sound compassionate, biblical generosity calls us to move beyond good intentions and actively demonstrate love through meaningful relationships.

He also reminds us that generosity isn’t only about helping others carry their burdens. Sometimes it means being willing to let others help carry ours.

You weren’t created to carry every burden alone.

As we continue through Romans 12, we also discover the biblical meaning of hospitality: demonstrating love toward strangers and making room in our hearts for people who may be different from us.

Through the example of the Good Samaritan, the fellowship of the early church, and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:35, Pastor Dan challenges us to examine the boundaries we’ve placed around our relationships.

Are we willing to love someone outside our normal circle?

Are we willing to welcome people who look different, think differently, or come from unfamiliar backgrounds?

And are we willing to move beyond simply inviting people to church and begin inviting them into our lives?

From supporting foster children and missionaries to encouraging coworkers, neighbors, and those who feel forgotten, true generosity reflects the heart of Jesus Christ.

Lean In

As you listen to today’s message, lean in to what Pastor Dan has to share. Invite the Holy Spirit to speak directly to your heart.

Ask God to reveal where your generosity may have become more about what you give than how you love.

Is there someone whose burdens you could help carry?

Is there someone you’ve kept outside your circle because loving them might require stepping beyond your comfort zone?

And is there an area of your life where God is asking you to do something new?

Today’s Takeaway

True generosity is more than giving something. It’s giving yourself.

This week, ask God to place one person on your heart who needs genuine connection, encouragement, or compassion.

Don’t simply offer to help. Look for an opportunity to show up, listen, and demonstrate the love of Christ.

Because the love of Jesus was never meant to remain inside the walls of the church.

It was meant to transform our relationships, our communities, and the lives of those around us.

True generosity begins when we make room in our hearts for someone else.