In what ways can our offerings today reflect those in Exodus 35:29? Scripture Focus Exodus 35:29: “All the men and women whose hearts were willing brought to the LORD freewill offerings for all the work that the LORD had commanded through Moses to be done.” Timeless Principles in the Verse • A willing heart, not compulsion • Men and women serving side-by-side • Offerings directed toward God’s specific work • Variety of gifts—materials, skills, labor • Unity of the whole community How Our Offerings Today Can Reflect These Patterns • Willing, Cheerful Giving – 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give…for God loves a cheerful giver.” – Give because we want to honor God, not because we feel forced. • Bringing the Whole Self – Romans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” – Money, yes—but also time, expertise, creativity, and hospitality. • Supporting God-Ordained Work – Philippians 4:18: Paul calls the Philippians’ gift “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” – Direct resources toward gospel proclamation, church planting, missions, and practical mercy. • Variety of Gifts, Same Purpose – Exodus list: gold, silver, fabric, spices, craftsmanship (Exodus 35:22-26). – Today: • Financial resources • Skilled labor (construction, IT, design) • Administrative talent • Musical or teaching abilities • Hospitality and meals • Technology and media support • Sacrificial Generosity – Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” – Give first, not leftovers; trust God to supply needs. • Unified Participation – Men and women, young and old, wealthy and modest—everyone has something God can use. – Acts 2:44-45 shows early believers sharing so none were in need. Motivation of the Heart • Gratitude for redemption (Ephesians 1:7) • Desire for God’s glory in the world (Matthew 5:16) • Anticipation of eternal reward (Matthew 6:19-21) Putting It into Practice 1. Pray for a willing heart; ask God what, where, and how to give. 2. Set aside a planned, first-portion gift each pay period. 3. Identify talents or possessions that could strengthen your local church or a missionary effort. 4. Volunteer regularly—service is an offering (Hebrews 13:16). 5. Encourage others to join you so the whole community participates. Encouraging Outcome When our offerings mirror the pattern of Exodus 35:29—voluntary, generous, varied, and unified—God’s work advances, our faith deepens, and the watching world gains a living picture of His grace. |
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