The Secret of the Double-Portion Blessing

Jimmy Evans
Focus God gave His firstborn son, Jesus, responsibility for us. In biblical times, the
firstborn son received a double portion of his father’s inheritance. This was not
due to preference but because he would be responsible for taking care of the
family after his father’s passing. Today both men and women are considered
“firstborn sons” after they are saved. We are to care for others just like Jesus
cares for us. When we receive this principle into our hearts, God makes his
double-portion blessing available to us.

Fun
Open If you were one of the world’s weathiest people, how would you spend this
money?

Review Key Scriptures: Hebrews 12:22–24; Matthew 14:14–21; Matthew 16:5–12

How to Receive the Double-Portion Blessing of God:

1. Understanding the Principle of Double Portion.

A. Rather than send the multitude away, Jesus made the disciples take
responsibility for them.

B. Fast-Forward: Jesus exposes the real problem—selfishness and self-interest.

C. Before we enter into a realm of giving and blessing, we must change by

having the attitude of the firstborn, “I will take care of God’s family and His
interests and not just live for myself.”

2. Believe in the Power of the Double-Portion Blessing.

 A. After Jesus commanded His disciples to take responsibility for the multitude,
they immediately complained about their lack of ability.

B. Jesus commanded them to give Him their food.

C. Once they gave it to Him, the miracle began.

3. Understand the Purpose of the Double-Portion Blessing.

A. The purpose is so that we can live a blessed life, generously giving without
fear when we see an opportunity or need.

B. Without the double-portion blessing, we live in fear and greed trying to protect
what little we have.

*Group Dynamics Idea* It is heart-warming to bless someone, especially when they are not
expecting it. Consider how your group could fulfill someone’s need. Not only will this person
be blessed, but you will be too.

Discuss
1. Who did God consider the firstborn Son? What was His responsibility?

2. When we are saved, God views his sons and daughters as firstborn sons. What
is our responsibility?

3. Read Matthew 14:16–21. As Jesus transferred the problem of feeding the

multitude to the disciples, what lesson did Jesus want to teach them? What
does this mean for all of us?

4. Pastor Jimmy explained that just as Jesus broke the bread, He can break things
off us. Name those things. Example: a spirit of selfishness.

5. According to 2 Corinthians 9:5–11, what does our attitude need to be toward

giving or helping someone in need? How can our fears directly affect this
attitude?

6. A miracle is an extraordinary event that surpasses all known human or natural

powers. How does the miracle of the double-portion blessing work in our lives?
 7. You must first be saved to receive God’s double-portion blessing. Take time to
quietly come before God. If you have never done so, ask Jesus to come into your
life and forgive your sins, then be true to His Word. By faithfully presenting your
tithes and offerings to His Church, you will bless many and receive His blessing in
return.

Take Home As we conclude, remember the following:

• As God’s firstborn Son, Jesus was given responsibility for us.
• When we are saved, God considers all of us to be His firstborn sons.
• As first bornsons, the double-portion blessing is available to us.
• The double-portion blessing appoints us to be responsible for others.
• Lives change when we receive the miracle of the double-portion blessing.

Prayer Father, thank You for registering my name in heaven as Your firstborn son. Help
me to be faithful in my responsibility to those around me. I give You anything that
will hinder my caretaking responsibilities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*New Leader Tip* As leaders we sometimes feel that silence during a group discussion is not
a good thing. However, people often need time to think about a question. When this happens,
tell your group that you recognize their need to reflect, then after a pause, encourage
feedback.