How does Exodus 35:9 connect to New Testament teachings on giving? The Scene in Exodus 35:9 “and onyx stones and gemstones to mount on the ephod and breastpiece.” • The LORD specifically names costly, beautiful items—stones fit for priestly garments. • They are part of a larger call: “Whoever has a willing heart, let him bring an offering to the LORD.” (Exodus 35:5) • Every contribution is voluntary, yet it supplies what will visibly display God’s glory among His people. What God Was Teaching Israel About Giving • God owns everything, yet invites His people to participate (Psalm 50:10-12). • He values motive over amount—“a willing heart.” • The offering meets a tangible need (the tabernacle) and a spiritual one (worship). • Precious materials signify that God deserves our best, not leftovers. New Testament Echoes of the Same Heart • Cheerful, voluntary giving – “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Sacrificial generosity – The Macedonians “gave according to their ability and even beyond it, of their own accord.” (2 Corinthians 8:3) – The widow’s two coins (Luke 21:1-4). • Meeting the needs of ministry – Early believers “brought the proceeds… and laid them at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.” (Acts 4:35) • Honoring Christ our High Priest – Precious stones once adorned Aaron’s ephod; today believers adorn the ministry of Christ through their gifts (Hebrews 8:1-2). • Building a living temple – “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” (1 Peter 2:5) – Material gifts support the spiritual construction of Christ’s Church. Consistent Motives: Love, Worship, Obedience • Love: Giving responds to God’s prior generosity (John 3:16; 1 John 4:19). • Worship: Offerings declare His worth (Matthew 6:19-21). • Obedience: Following clear commands to support the work of ministry (Galatians 6:6). Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Examine the heart first: willingness matters more than value. • Give the “precious stones” of your resources—quality, not leftovers. • View giving as partnering with God’s ongoing work, just as Israel’s gifts made the tabernacle possible. • Expect God’s glory to be displayed through faithful generosity—souls saved, disciples matured, needs met. |
    |