Contagious Generosity – The Key to Continuous Blessings

A book review by: Rusty Lewis

Contagious Generosity – The Key to Continuous Blessing
By Barry L. Cameron
HeartSpring Publishing – www.heartspringpublishing.com - 194 pages

One of the most sensitive subjects in church life today remains the subject of giving. Some pastors avoid the topic until the annual stewardship drive begins, while others avoid preaching on money and possessions altogether.

How refreshing it is to come across Barry Cameron’s new book, “Contagious Generosity – The Key to Continuous Blessing!”. Barry is the senior pastor at Crossroads Christian Church in Grand Prairie, TX. He is the author of “The ABC’s of Financial Success”.

The author begins by telling us that generosity is contagious, that we were designed to be givers, not keepers. “God never intended for any of us to be keepers. He created us to give and to give generously.” Following a thorough explanation of how contagious generosity is defined; Barry then provides a solid Biblical foundation for his thesis. It should be noted that all of the author’s views are supported in scripture, and many biblical references are provided throughout.

With a solid foundation established, the author then provides many illustrations of generosity. Some come from modern day stories, others from recent history, still more from well-known Bible stories. Each is an example not only of someone’s generosity, but how their initial act becomes contagious, spawning further acts of generosity.

The fun begins in Chapter Four. Is the tithe still relevant to us today? As believers in Christ, haven’t we been released from the law? Here you will find an excellent discourse on the subject of tithing. The author holds that the tithe is the starting point for contagious generosity and explains how God differentiates between tithing (obedience) and offerings (generosity). He addresses those who hold that tithing is an Old Testament doctrine and does not have to be practiced in the New Testament church. For those who struggle with these questions about giving, or who desire to provide answers to those who do, this chapter alone is worth the price of admission. It is one of the best-written chapters on the subject of tithing, with views fully supported in scripture.

From here, the author discusses what limits our generosity; that generosity is a matter of the heart, not the balance of one’s assets. Finally, we read about application and celebration of generosity. You will be inspired, challenged and encouraged through these final chapters.

The appendix includes the author’s personal tithing testimony. He provides references to examples of different offerings that are found in the Bible. Answers to the common questions on the subject of tithing, giving and generosity are also found here.

If you are in need of a fresh, renewing, challenging perspective on Christian stewardship, you will want to read this latest offering from Barry Cameron.