What scriptural connections exist between 2 Kings 12:11 and New Testament stewardship teachings? Stewardship at Work in 2 Kings 12:11 “Then they would give the money weighed out into the hands of those doing the work, who were overseeing the house of the LORD, and they paid it out to the masons and carpenters, as well as to the builders and stonemasons used to repair the house of the LORD.” Key Old-Testament Principles in the Verse • Accountability – money is “weighed out” before distribution. • Designated giving – funds go only to temple repairs. • Fair compensation – workers receive payment for their labor. • Oversight by trustworthy men – “those doing the work, who were overseeing.” • Priority on God’s house – the temple project comes first. Parallels in New-Testament Stewardship 1. Faithful Handling of God’s Resources • “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Colossians 4:2) • “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” (Luke 16:10) 2. Transparency and Integrity • Paul sends multiple brothers with the collection “to avoid any criticism.” (2 Corinthians 8:20-21) • He renounces “secret and shameful ways.” (2 Colossians 4:2) 3. Designated, Purposeful Giving • The church in Philippi sends gifts “for my needs.” (Philippians 4:16-18) • Offerings for the Jerusalem poor are “for the saints.” (1 Colossians 16:1-3) 4. Fair Support for Workers • “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” (1 Timothy 5:18; cf. Luke 10:7) • Those who preach the gospel “should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:14) 5. Building God’s Dwelling—Now the Church • Temple repairs foreshadow caring for Christ’s body: “You are God’s building.” (1 Colossians 3:9-17) • Each believer supplies “according to the proper working of each individual part.” (Ephesians 4:16) Timeless Takeaways • God values meticulous stewardship; weight your resources carefully. • Direct giving toward gospel-centered purposes. • Pay and honor those who labor for the Lord. • Maintain open, transparent financial practices to protect the testimony of Christ. • Recognize that supporting the local church today echoes Jehoash’s repair of the temple—both uphold the visible witness of God’s dwelling among His people. |