Connect 1 Chronicles 26:27 with New Testament teachings on stewardship. Spoils dedicated for God’s house “They dedicated some of the plunder taken in battle to repair the house of the LORD.” (1 Chronicles 26:27) • Victory belonged to the LORD, so Israel treated the plunder as His property. • The gift was practical—funding repairs and upkeep of the temple. • It was forward-looking, ensuring that worship would continue for generations. Heart motives that drive stewardship • Gratitude: the soldiers knew the triumph was God-given (Psalm 20:7). • Reverence: first fruits belong to the LORD (Proverbs 3:9). • Responsibility: caring for the place where God’s presence was manifest. New Testament echoes of the same stewardship • 1 Corinthians 4:1-2—“Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” – We are managers, not owners. • Luke 16:10—“The one who is faithful with very little is also faithful with much.” – Daily choices with money prove trustworthiness. • Acts 4:34-35—“There were no needy ones among them… the proceeds were distributed to each as anyone had need.” – Resources released for God’s people and God’s work. • 2 Corinthians 9:7—“God loves a cheerful giver.” – Giving isn’t forced; it’s joyful participation. • 1 Timothy 6:18—“Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” – Wealth becomes a tool for eternal impact. Parallels between 1 Chronicles 26:27 and New-Covenant giving • Source of provision – Old Testament: battlefield plunder. – New Testament: wages, profits, inheritances—every income stream God supplies. • Destination of the gift – Temple maintenance. – The ministry of the gospel, the needs of the saints, the spread of the kingdom. • Underlying principle – God gives victory → dedicate spoils. – God gives increase → steward it for His purposes. Practical takeaways for today • Calculate victories: salary raises, business success, investment gains—see them as God-given “plunder.” • Set aside a dedicated portion first, not last (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Aim your giving where worship is fostered and people are served—local church, missions, mercy ministries. • Track impact just as priests tracked temple repairs; be intentional and accountable. • Expect God’s continued supply: “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) |
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