What connections exist between 2 Chronicles 31:4 and New Testament teachings on giving? Verse Focus “Moreover, he commanded the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due the priests and Levites, so that they might devote themselves to the law of the LORD.” (2 Chronicles 31:4) Setting the Scene • King Hezekiah is leading a revival in Judah. • The people are ordered to supply material support to the priests and Levites. • Goal: free the ministers to focus entirely on teaching and preserving God’s Word. Timeless Principle Provision for those who teach Scripture enables unhindered ministry. New Testament Echoes of the Same Principle • Jesus: “The worker is worthy of his provisions.” (Matthew 10:10) • Paul: – “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:14) – “Let him who is taught in the word share all good things with the one who teaches.” (Galatians 6:6) – “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.’” (1 Timothy 5:17-18) • Early Church practice: believers laid resources at the apostles’ feet so “distribution could be made to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 4:34-37) • Philippian partnership: their gifts became “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” (Philippians 4:18) Shared Motivations in Both Testaments • Obedience to God’s direct command. • Gratitude for spiritual instruction received. • Desire to advance God’s Word without distraction. The Heart Attitude • Cheerful, voluntary generosity: “Each one should give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Proportionate giving: “Let each of you set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income.” (1 Corinthians 16:2) • Faith-filled trust that God supplies needs: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) Purpose of the Provision • Old Testament: enable priests and Levites to “devote themselves to the law of the LORD.” • New Testament: enable pastors, missionaries, and teachers to devote themselves “to prayer and the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:4) Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Regularly set aside a planned portion of income for kingdom work. • Channel gifts through local churches and faithful ministries that proclaim Scripture. • View financial support as participation in the spread of the gospel, not merely a monetary transaction. • Remember that generous giving is an act of worship treasured by God, generating eternal fruit for the giver and the recipient alike. |
    |