1 Chronicles 16:29 Give to the LORD the glory due to his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. In accordance with the Mosaic regulations, and as a fitting expression of pious feeling, the people were enjoined to "bring an offering, and come before him." By an "offering here we are to understand a gift rather than a sacrifice (see Malachi 2:8-10). From the very earliest beginnings of the human race it was distinctly apprehended - whether by following the instincts with which God endowed man, or by special Divine revelations, we cannot say - that a man can and may give himself to God by and through the presentation to God of something that he has. This is the underlying principle of all tithes, offerings, and sacrifices. Nothing presented to God can be acceptable unless it carries with it the person presenting, seeing that what he cares for is man's love and trust and service. Illustrate from the case of Cain and Abel, each bringing a thank offering from that in which God had blessed him. Show how the principle gained development in the Mosaic system; the regular devotement of property being enjoined, and gifts being required in connection with all sanctuary attendances. Show that the principle has our lord's commendation, and passed over into the early Church, forming one of the first impulses of awakened Christian feeling (see Barnabas), and being specially commended to the attention of the Churches by the apostles (Acts 2:45; Galatians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 16:1, 2). It may be enforced - I. THAT CHRISTIAN FEELING STILL IMPELS GIFTS. The sense of indebtedness and of thankfulness always wants this mode of expression. II. THAT CHRISTIAN FEELING STILL SEEKS RIGHT SPHERES FOR GIFTS. These are found in every age in connection with Divine worship. And as Christ is not now with us in the body, we find spheres for gifts in helping and blessing others for his sake. III. THAT CHRISTIAN FEELING STILL SEEKS TO SERVE GOD BY ITS GIFTS. Letting them be (1) signs to him, and (2) inspiring examples to our fellow-men. Press the duty of seeking right ideas concerning the trust of money, and the due apportionment of it so that God may be glorified in its use. - R.T. Parallel Verses KJV: Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. |
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