1
First A Willing Mind
Introduction

• Regardless of the particular, attitude and mental
  posture is of the utmost importance and largely
  determine the success of a given matter.
• For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he
  (Prov. 23 7).

2
First A Willing Mind

• 11 Now therefore perform the doing of it that
  as there was a readiness to will, so there may be
  a performance also out of that which ye have. 12
  For if there be first a willing mind, it is
  accepted according to that a man hath, and not
  according to that he hath not (2 Cor. 8).

3
First A Willing Mind
Context

• The Macedonia Christians were poor (v. 2). Yet,
  they were liberal in their giving (Ibid.). They
  had a certain willingness (v. 3). Their attitude
  was exemplary (v. 4). They gave themselves to
  the Lord (v. 5). They were used to teach the
  Corinthians (v. 7). The ultimate example (v. 9).
  The willing mind (v. 12).

4
First A Willing Mind

• Verse 12. For if there be first a willing mind.
  If there is a readiness, a disposition to give
  if the heart is in it, then the offering will be
  acceptable to God, whether you be able to give
  much or little. A willing mind is the first
  consideration. This had relation, as used by
  Paul, to the duty of almsgiving but the
  principle is as applicable to everything in the
  way of duty. A willing mind is the first and main
  thing. It is that which God chiefly desires, and
  that without which everything else will be
  offensive, hypocritical, and vain. (Albert
  Barnes, cp. 2 Cor. 9 7.)

5
First A Willing Mind

• Notice again this section of the quotation from
  Barnes
• the principle is as applicable to everything
  in the way of duty. .

6
First A Willing Mind
Application

• While the specific teaching relative to giving
  pertains to needy saints, certainly such teaching
  generally serves I Cor. 16 1, 2, 2 Cor. 8, 9,
  cp. I Cor. 9 14).

7
First A Willing Mind
Application

• Ephesians 4 3 applies to all Christians and
  implies a love of the truth and the ability to
  correctly apply it.

8
First A Willing Mind
Application

• Ephesians 5 22 through 6 4 pertains to family
  order, structure, and several duties. The ideal
  family involves each family member, doing their
  part.

9
First A Willing Mind
Application

• Ephesians 4 29 forbids corrupt communication
  but also enjoins speech that is edifying and that
  ministers grace unto the hearers.

10
First A Willing Mind
Application

• The early Christians were busy attempting to
  teach and instruct others (Acts 8 4). They held
  forth the word of life (Phili. 2 16).

11
First A Willing Mind
Application

• God has provided the local church arrangement for
  Christians to corporately function (I Tim. 3
  15). Within the local church, there is much
  work.

12
First A Willing Mind
Conclusion

• First a willing mind is elemental and
  essential. Providing there is the right attitude
  and correct teaching, the action will be
  forthcoming, attended by all the various nuances.