Topical Bible: Poor: Inexpensive offerings of People Who Have Very Little Money

◄ Poor: Inexpensive offerings of People Who Have Very Little Money ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the term "poor" often refers to individuals who lack material wealth and resources. Despite their financial limitations, the poor are frequently depicted as having a significant role in the spiritual and communal life of Israel and the early Christian church. The Bible provides numerous examples of how the poor contribute to religious practices through their offerings, which, though inexpensive, are highly valued by God.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Law of Moses made provisions for the poor, ensuring they could participate in religious offerings. Leviticus 5:7 states, "If, however, he cannot afford a lamb, he may bring to the LORD as his guilt offering for the sin he has committed two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering." This provision highlights God's understanding and accommodation for those with limited means, allowing them to maintain a relationship with Him through sacrificial offerings.

The account of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:8-16 illustrates the faith and generosity of the poor. Despite her dire circumstances, she provides for the prophet Elijah, and God miraculously sustains her household. This narrative underscores the principle that God honors the faith and sacrifice of the poor, often using their offerings to demonstrate His power and provision.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently emphasizes the value of the poor and their offerings. One of the most poignant examples is the account of the widow's mite in Mark 12:41-44 : "Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into it. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amounted to a small fraction of a denarius. Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, 'Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more than all the others into the treasury. For they all contributed out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.'" This passage highlights the principle that the value of an offering is not measured by its monetary worth but by the heart and sacrifice behind it.

The early church also recognized the importance of supporting the poor and valuing their contributions. In Acts 2:44-45 , the believers are described as having "all things in common" and selling their possessions to give to anyone in need. This communal approach ensured that the poor were not only recipients of aid but also active participants in the life of the church.

Theological Implications

The Bible consistently teaches that God is concerned with the heart and intention behind an offering rather than its material value. The offerings of the poor, though inexpensive, are often portrayed as more genuine and sacrificial than those of the wealthy. This perspective challenges believers to evaluate their own giving and to recognize the spiritual richness that can be found in poverty.

Furthermore, the biblical narrative encourages the community of faith to support and uplift the poor, ensuring their inclusion in worship and communal life. The offerings of the poor serve as a reminder of God's provision and the call to live in dependence on Him, regardless of one's financial status.

Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 5:7
And if he be not able to bring a lamb, then he shall bring for his trespass, which he has committed, two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, to the LORD; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering.
Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 12:8
And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean.
Nave's Topical Index

Leviticus 14:21,22
And if he be poor, and cannot get so much; then he shall take one lamb for a trespass offering to be waved, to make an atonement for him, and one tenth deal of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering, and a log of oil;
Nave's Topical Index