How does Ezekiel 45:13 connect to New Testament teachings on generosity? Ezekiel 45:13 in Context “ ‘And this is the contribution that you shall offer: one sixth of an ephah from each homer of wheat and one sixth of an ephah from each homer of barley.’ ” Principles Embedded in Ezekiel’s Offering • God sets the portion—His people do not negotiate it. • The share is proportional (one-sixth of an ephah per homer), establishing fairness across all harvest sizes. • The contribution is devoted to ongoing worship in the temple, not to personal projects. • By commanding a precise measure, the Lord protects both givers and receivers from manipulation. New Testament Echoes of the Same Heart • Proportional giving remains the pattern: “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income.” (1 Corinthians 16:2) • Generosity is still directed toward worship and ministry: the believers “sold their property and possessions and shared with anyone who had need.” (Acts 2:45) • The motive is cheerful obedience, not coercion: “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) • God promises sufficiency to those who honor Him with their resources: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) Bringing the Two Testaments Together • Ezekiel’s fixed fraction teaches that generosity starts with a planned, measurable commitment; Paul echoes this with intentional weekly giving. • The Old Testament offering funds temple worship; the New Testament collections support gospel work and care for the poor—different forms, same purpose: advancing God’s glory. • In both eras, giving is an act of covenant faithfulness. Obedience precedes abundance; generosity flows from gratitude, not surplus. Practical Take-Aways for Today • Decide on a clear percentage of income to set apart first, not last—mirroring the “one sixth” principle. • Treat giving as worship. Whether supporting your local church, missions, or benevolence, see every gift as laid on God’s altar. • Give consistently. Just as harvests came in seasons, our modern “harvest” (salary, profit, benefits) calls for regular offerings. • Trust God’s provision. The same Lord who regulated grain in Ezekiel and supplied the Macedonians (2 Corinthians 8:2-3) is faithful now. |
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