09/11/2025
GRAND FINALE - AFAHA IBESIKPO MAJOR CONVENTION
EXHORTATION BY APOSTLE E. E. DUKE
Text: Luke 6:30–38; Exodus 25:1; Matthew 25:31–40
Theme: The Blessing of Giving
Introduction
Beloved, the Lord is calling His people back to the foundation of love, unity, and generosity. As Christians, we must remember that we are one family in Christ — irrespective of tribe, language, or background. The early church grew strong because they shared everything in common. They understood that love is not complete without giving.
The spirit of giving reflects the very heart of God, for “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.” (John 3:16). Therefore, a true Christian life must be marked by cheerful generosity, compassion, and a willingness to bless others.
MAIN MESSAGE
1. Giving Reflects the Nature of God (Luke 6:30–38)
Giving is one of the greatest acts of faith and obedience. Jesus Himself said, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over…”
When you give, you open a spiritual account with God — and His reward is always greater than what you gave. You cannot outgive God.
2. Giving Unites the Body of Christ (Exodus 25:1; Matthew 25:31–40)
In Exodus 25:1, God commanded Moses to receive offerings from everyone whose heart moved them to give. God wanted His people to participate in building His dwelling place. Likewise, in Matthew 25, Jesus said, “When you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to Me.”
When we give to others — to the poor, to the church, to missions — we are giving directly to God. Giving breaks barriers and unites us as one body in Christ. It replaces selfishness with service and turns the church into a family.
3. A True Giver Never Lacks (Proverbs 11:24–25; Philippians 4:19)
A genuine giver may face challenges, but will never remain in lack. God ensures that such a person always bounces back. He provides resources, ideas, and opportunities to sustain them.
Remember: “There is he that scattereth, and yet increaseth.” (Proverbs 11:24)
Your giving becomes a seed for your future harvest. You may not see the result immediately, but in due season, God will return it with increase.
4. Giving Opens Doors and Elevates the Giver (Proverbs 18:16; Genesis 27:1–4, 28–29)
The Scripture says, “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.”
When you give, you activate divine favor. Giving can move you into circles you never imagined, and open doors you could not open by strength.
Jacob’s gift to his father brought him blessings that lasted generations. So, also, when you give in faith, God uses your generosity to position you for greatness.
5. The Secret of Remembered Blessings (Proverbs 19:17; Malachi 3:13–18)
A giver is never forgotten. Even in difficult times, the memory of their kindness speaks for them. God Himself keeps records of giving. He said, “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord.”
Whenever you are placed in a position to bless others, do not hesitate. Your act of generosity becomes a testimony that will defend you in your time of need. The reward from God will always be bigger than your sacrifice.
CONCLUSION
The kingdom of God is built on the principle of giving — not just of money, but of love, service, and compassion. Let us therefore return to that original belief: we are one in Christ, and we are blessed to be a blessing.
No one becomes poor by giving; rather, giving connects us to the endless resources of Heaven. Be a channel, not a container. For as long as you release, you will continue to receive.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, every door that has been closed in my life, let it be opened through the power of this Convention, in Jesus’ Name!
2. Lord, if I was born into a poor family, I shall not die poor — raise me as a testimony of Your divine provision!
3. Heavenly Father, if I was born in limitation, lift me up by Your grace! (Psalm 113:7–8)
4. Father, make me a vessel of blessing. Let my hands never be empty, and my heart will never be hardened against giving.
5. Lord, through my giving, let souls be touched, lives transformed, and Your kingdom expanded. Amen.
