What connections exist between Nehemiah 10:33 and New Testament teachings on giving? Setting the Scene Nehemiah 10:33: “for the showbread, for the regular grain offering, for the regular burnt offering of the Sabbaths, New Moons, and appointed feasts, for the holy offerings, for sin offerings to make atonement for Israel, and for all the work of the house of our God.” What Nehemiah 10:33 Teaches about Giving • Purpose-driven: offerings earmarked “for all the work of the house of our God.” • Regular and rhythmic: “regular grain offering… regular burnt offering… Sabbaths… New Moons.” • Community-wide covenant: the whole nation pledged support (vv. 28-39). • God-focused: every gift underwrites worship and atonement, not civic projects or personal acclaim. New Testament Echoes • Support of gospel ministry – 1 Corinthians 9:13-14: “Those who serve at the altar share in the offerings… the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” – Philippians 4:15-18: gifts to Paul called “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” • Planned, rhythmic giving – 1 Corinthians 16:2: “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income…” – 2 Corinthians 9:5: “the bountiful gift you promised.” • Cheerful, voluntary generosity – 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” – Acts 4:34-35: believers laid proceeds “at the apostles’ feet” to meet needs. • Worship at the center – Hebrews 13:16: “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Romans 12:1: lives (and resources) offered as “living sacrifices.” Shared Principles Bridging Both Testaments 1. God Himself designates the need. 2. Giving is regular, not sporadic. 3. The whole covenant community participates. 4. Offerings maintain worship and advance God’s mission. 5. Gifts are viewed as sacrifices that please the Lord. Practical Takeaways • Budget worship first, not last—just as Israel supplied the temple before anything else. • Treat weekly giving as a joyful rhythm that mirrors “Sabbaths and New Moons.” • Direct gifts where God’s word is proclaimed and His people are served. • Give proportionately and cheerfully, trusting God to multiply grace (2 Corinthians 9:8). |
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