The word “offering” is very
interesting. In today’s society most would say it’s what you bring (skills,
talents, materials) into a situation. In most churches would say it’s what you
put in the collection plate. We’ll spend a few days looking at what the Bible
has to say about it.
In Mark 12:41-44 Jesus is at
the Temple where people bring their offerings. Jesus sat down
opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting
their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.
42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a
few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this
poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave
out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had
to live on.”
The word “Offering” is by Strong’s definition: The act of: bringing to; setting before; sacrificing; presenting; a
gift.
It is used 728 time in the Bible, most (over half) in Leviticus and
Numbers. In the Old Testament it deals with the sacrificial system set in place
by God and performed by the priest in the Temple.
It is used only 23 times in the New Testament. Where it is about: Giving,
Involvement, and Relationship.
Be wise today - consider your
offering.
