1 Chronicles 26:20 And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things. Only very thoughtless persons can suppose that religion and money can be dissociated. In this world things material and spiritual are so blended that we have not to ask - Must the cause of God have anything to do with wealth and property? but - What are the proper and scriptural relations between them? In explaining these, we remark - I. ALL TREASURE IS THE LORD'S. He created all that men use and prize. It is his own property. If we give to him, we can only give "of his own." II. IN THE HANDS OF THE LORD'S PEOPLE TREASURE IS A TRUST. The irreligious cannot be expected so to regard it; but it is marvellous that enlightened Christians can ever lock upon the matter in any other light. God lends men their possessions that they may use them for his glory, and prepare to give in an account to himself, approving their fidelity and piety. III. TREASURE MAY BE CONSECRATED TO THE LORD'S TEMPLE. What in the olden time among the Jews the temple at Jerusalem was regarded as being, that the Church of Christ is in this dispensation. And money may lawfully and wisely be expended in the erection of churches, chapels, schools, mission-rooms, etc., and in the maintenance of pastors, teachers, and evangelists. Christian wisdom may define the limits and extent of generous gifts. But, although in the ages of superstition there may have been danger of excess in donations and endowments, there is very little danger in our days, when large sums are spent on personal luxuries and ostentation, and when there is an impression that the one special department for economy is religion. IV. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE LORD'S TREASURE SHOULD BE IN SAFE KEEPING. It is an honourable office to have charge of religions and benevolent funds. It should be regarded as a stewardship from Heaven. Many who cannot preach or teach may render service in Christ's Churches by acting as treasurers and almoners, and by their faithful custody and wise disbursement of funds may serve the body of Christ and please the Divine Head. - T. Parallel Verses KJV: And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things. |
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