“The Principle of the First”
Malachi 1
Sermon Series: “Thrive”
Introduction: The definition or idea of the principle of the first is that we sacrifice for that which we value the most. In other words, our actions show what is really important to us. That is true in life generally. It is also a spiritual principle that connects to our relationship with Jesus.
Main Idea-Principle of the First Defined Biblically: The principle of the first is that Jesus is worthy of our first and best because He is a great King who loves us so much that He gave everything for us.
Key Questions For Us To Consider
1. Who do we believe that Jesus is? Do we believe He is a great King? Do we believe that He loves us and gave Himself for us (see John 3:16 and Romans 5:8)?
2. In light of who He is, how are we responding to Him? Are we giving Him our first and best or are we giving Him our leftovers?
Practical Applications
1. Give Him our lives (Romans 12:1). Confess Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9). Surrender to Him by faith and ask Him to take over.
2. Give Him the first and best part of our day in spending time with Him (Mark 1:35).
3. Give Him the first and best part of our finances (Proverbs 3:9-10, Malachi 3:8-12).
