How can we encourage others to contribute to God's mission, like in Ezra 1:4? Ezra 1:4—The Call to Share in God’s Mission “And let every survivor, wherever he resides, be assisted by the men of his region with silver and gold, with goods and livestock, along with freewill offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.” Key Observations • God’s plan is clear: rebuild His house in Jerusalem. • The exiles must go, yet those who stay are still invited to participate. • Giving is specific—silver, gold, goods, livestock, freewill offerings. • The verse treats the historical event as an objective fact, underscoring the reliability of Scripture. Timeless Principles for Encouraging Others • Participation is broader than physical presence; everyone has a role. • Clear vision mobilizes people—identify the project and its purpose. • Tangible needs invite tangible gifts—outline exact resources required. • Voluntary giving, not coercion—note the “freewill offerings.” • Assurance that contributions directly advance God’s work. Practical Ways to Invite Participation Today • Share the narrative: retell what God is doing locally and globally, just as Cyrus proclaimed God’s plan. • Communicate details: publish budgets, project timelines, and progress reports so supporters see where their gifts go. • Celebrate every contributor: publicly acknowledge both large and small acts of generosity (1 Chronicles 29:9). • Provide multiple avenues to give—finances, skills, time, prayer support. • Model generosity from leadership downward; people imitate what they observe (Acts 4:34-35). • Keep the focus on worship: giving is to “the house of God,” not to human agendas. • Reinforce eternal reward: “I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account” (Philippians 4:17). • Maintain joyful tone: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Grounding Our Appeal in God’s Promises • God fulfills His word; He moved Cyrus to act (Ezra 1:1). • He supplies every need for His assignments (Philippians 4:19). • When people obey, God multiplies the outcome (Nehemiah 2:18). • The generosity of believers becomes a testimony to His grace (Acts 4:33-35). Closing Thoughts Inviting others to contribute mirrors the cooperative spirit of Ezra 1:4. By presenting a clear God-given vision, detailing concrete needs, fostering voluntary and joyful generosity, and grounding every appeal in the sure promises of Scripture, we motivate believers to unite in advancing the mission God has entrusted to us. |
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