Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical times, the term "penny" is often used in English translations of the Bible to represent a small denomination of currency. The Berean Standard Bible uses the term "denarius" in the New Testament, which is sometimes translated as "penny" in other versions. The denarius was a Roman silver coin that was commonly used during the time of Jesus and the early church. It was approximately equivalent to a day's wage for a laborer, making it a significant yet modest amount of money.Biblical References: 1. Matthew 20:2 : "He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard." This parable of the workers in the vineyard illustrates the kingdom of heaven and the generosity of God. The denarius, or penny, here represents the agreed-upon wage for a day's labor, highlighting the fairness and sufficiency of God's provision. 2. Matthew 22:19-21 : "Show Me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought Him a denarius. “Whose image is this,” He asked, “and whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they answered. So Jesus told them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” In this passage, the denarius is used to teach about the relationship between civic duty and spiritual obligation. The coin, bearing the image of Caesar, symbolizes the temporal authority of earthly governments, while Jesus emphasizes the higher duty to God. 3. Mark 12:42 : "Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amount to a small fraction of a denarius." This account of the widow's offering underscores the value of sacrificial giving. Although her contribution was monetarily small, it was significant in the eyes of God because it represented her total trust and devotion. 4. Luke 10:35 : "The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Take care of him,’ he said, ‘and on my return I will reimburse you for any additional expense.’" In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the use of two denarii demonstrates the Samaritan's compassion and willingness to provide for the injured man's needs. The denarius here serves as a measure of generosity and neighborly love. Cultural and Historical Context: The denarius was a standard Roman coin made of silver, widely circulated throughout the Roman Empire. Its value as a day's wage for a common laborer made it a practical unit of currency for everyday transactions. The use of the denarius in Jesus' teachings and parables reflects the economic realities of the time and provides a relatable context for His audience. In the broader biblical narrative, money, including the denarius, is often used to teach spiritual truths about stewardship, generosity, and the priorities of the heart. The Bible consistently emphasizes that while money is a necessary part of life, it should not become an idol or a source of greed. Instead, believers are encouraged to use their resources to honor God and serve others, reflecting the values of the kingdom of heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 20:2And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. Torrey's Topical Textbook Mark 6:37 Library Anointed for Burial. Eighth Commandment The Danger of Riches Christ Teaching by Miracles Letter xiv. To Heliodorus, Monk. Letter xxii. To Eustochium. Christ's Curate in Decapolis A Catholic Household a Catholic Household Off Duty Resources Should the church accept money if it is obtained in an ungodly manner? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian invest money in the stock market? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about handling money in a marriage? | GotQuestions.org Money: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Money Changers: General Scriptures Concerning Money of the Jews Regulated by the Standard of Sanctuary Money of the Romans, Stamped With the Image of Caesar Money was Current With the Merchants Money was Given for Merchandise Money was Given: Custom of Presenting a Piece of Money was Given: Love of, the Root of all Evil Money was Given: Power and Usefulness of Money: Brass Introduced As, by the Romans Money: Gold and Silver Used As Money: Jews Forbidden to Take Usury For Money: Love of, the Root of Evil Money: Originally Stamped With the Image of a Lamb Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Farthing Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Fourth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Gerah the Twentieth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Half Shekel or Bekah Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Mite Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Penny Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Pound Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Shekel of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Gold Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Third of a Shekel Money: Usually Taken by Weight Money: Value of, Varied Corruptly Related Terms Money-changers (5 Occurrences) Redemption-money (3 Occurrences) |
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