The subject of financial giving to the church can create tension and anxiety if not understood from the scriptural perspective of the Christian's heart for Christ. In this theological treatment of giving, Steve Swartz examines the biblical basis for obedience in giving to the Lord's work, which is, ultimately, because of his love for and loyalty to Jesus Christ. The gospel of Christ compels the Christian to respond in gratitude for God's grace in salvation, and giving is one such tangible response.Dr. Steve Swartz (M.Div., The Master's Seminary, D.Min., The Master's Seminary) serves as the senior pastor of Grace Bible Church of Bakersfield, California. He is the author of several books such as Shattered Shepherds and Strength in the River and is a regular lecturer at John MacArthur's Grace Advance, a post-graduate academy for church-planting pastors. Steve is the featured Bible teacher at Steadfast in the Faith (www.steadfastinthefaith.org), the online media ministry of Grace Bible Church."The call to give is often met with tension in today's church. But with the mind of a theologian and the heart of a shepherd, Dr. Swartz carefully tackles a sensitive subject with grace, compassion, and clarity, guiding the reader to a better understanding of the heart of God... This book includes practical teaching on giving, but even more, provides a pathway to a life of real joy focused on worshiping the Lord with a generous heart... After reading Joyful Generosity: Responding to God's Grace, I have a greater desire to give to Kingdom work, a clearer view of God's heart, and a more intense longing for heaven."-Dr. Michael Staton, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Mustang, Oklahoma, and featured speaker of Every Word Preached, www.everywordpreached.com."Joyful Generosity: Responding to God's Grace is a spiritually powerful, biblical-theological approach to the subject of financial stewardship. Dr. Swartz avoids the heresies of prosperity theology while teaching God's clear commands and promises related to giving ... I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting a God-centered and audience-sensitive exposition of biblical giving. I will be providing this book to the pastors in all our capital campaigns."-Dr. Rod Rogers, Owner/principal consultant with AMI Church Consulting Services, www.abundantgiving .com.
