How does 2 Chronicles 35:7 connect with New Testament teachings on generosity? setting the scene 2 Chronicles 35:7: “Josiah contributed to the laypeople, to all who were present, a total of thirty thousand lambs and young goats for the Passover offerings, along with three thousand cattle. These were from the king’s own possessions.” A king personally funds worship so the entire nation can celebrate Passover. Thirty-three thousand animals—no holding back, no charging the people, no strings attached. key observations in the verse • personal sacrifice – “from the king’s own possessions” • generosity aimed at corporate worship – the gifts enable everyone to participate • leadership by example – the king models what he desires his subjects to do • abundance, not bare minimum – thirty-three thousand animals exceed basic need new testament echoes • sacrificial, personal giving – 2 Corinthians 8:3 “they gave according to their ability and even beyond” – Luke 21:1-4 (the widow’s mites) • cheerful, voluntary generosity – 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 “God loves a cheerful giver” – Acts 5 contrasts forced, deceitful giving with sincere generosity • supporting worship and ministry – Luke 8:3 “Joanna, Susanna and many others were supporting them out of their own means” – Philippians 4:18 (Paul receives gifts “a fragrant offering”) • the wealthy stewarding resources for others – 1 Timothy 6:17-18 “instruct those who are rich… to be generous and willing to share” – Acts 4:36-37 Barnabas sells a field, lays proceeds at the apostles’ feet the passover link fulfilled Josiah’s gift enables Israel to celebrate the Passover lambs; the New Testament reveals the ultimate Passover: “Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). The King of kings gives not livestock but His very life so all may enter the true redemption. His self-giving becomes the model for all Christian generosity (Ephesians 5:2). practical takeaways • give from what is truly “yours,” not what costs nothing (2 Samuel 24:24) • aim to remove barriers so others can worship freely • let generosity flow from gratitude for the greater Gift—Christ Himself • if God has entrusted you with much, lead the way in giving much • remember: abundance in giving does not impoverish but aligns us with God’s own heart—“with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you” (Luke 6:38) summary Josiah’s lavish provision in 2 Chronicles 35:7 is an Old Testament snapshot of the New Testament call to open-handed, joyful, sacrificial giving. The same God who inspired the king to fund Passover invites believers today to mirror that generosity, confident that He has already given far more in His Son. |
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