2 Chronicles 31:14

Kore son of Imnah the Levite, the keeper of the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings given to God, distributing the contributions to the LORD and the consecrated gifts.

Study Bible

Kore son of Imnah the Levite
Kore is identified as a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for religious duties and temple service. The Levites were descendants of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and were responsible for the care and maintenance of the tabernacle and later the temple. Kore's lineage emphasizes the hereditary nature of temple service, as only Levites could perform certain religious functions. This highlights the importance of family and tradition in maintaining religious practices.

the keeper of the East Gate
The East Gate of the temple was significant as it faced the Mount of Olives and was often associated with the coming of the Messiah. In Ezekiel 44:1-3, the East Gate is described as being shut because the LORD, the God of Israel, has entered through it. Kore's role as the keeper of this gate underscores the importance of vigilance and purity in guarding the sacred spaces of worship. The gate's location also symbolizes the anticipation of divine presence and intervention.

was in charge of the freewill offerings given to God
Freewill offerings were voluntary gifts given by the Israelites to express gratitude and devotion to God. These offerings were not mandated by law but were given out of personal devotion and love for God. Kore's responsibility for these offerings indicates a position of trust and integrity, as he managed the resources that were meant to honor God. This role reflects the broader biblical principle of stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with managing God's resources faithfully.

distributing the contributions to the LORD
Kore's duty involved ensuring that the offerings were properly allocated for their intended purposes, which included supporting the temple services and the Levites. This distribution was crucial for maintaining the daily operations of the temple and ensuring that the worship of God continued uninterrupted. It reflects the organized and communal nature of worship in ancient Israel, where contributions from the people supported the religious life of the nation.

and the consecrated gifts
Consecrated gifts were items set apart for sacred use, often involving a formal dedication to God. These could include offerings of grain, oil, wine, or other valuable items. The act of consecration signifies the holiness and separation of these gifts for divine purposes. Kore's role in managing these gifts highlights the importance of holiness and dedication in worship, as well as the need for careful administration of resources devoted to God. This concept of consecration is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to live lives set apart for God's purposes (Romans 12:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kore son of Imnah
A Levite responsible for overseeing the distribution of freewill offerings and consecrated gifts. His role highlights the importance of faithful stewardship in the service of God.

2. Levites
Members of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service in the temple. They played a crucial role in maintaining the worship and rituals prescribed by God.

3. East Gate
One of the gates of the temple, symbolizing a place of entry and access to the presence of God. It was significant in temple activities and worship.

4. Freewill Offerings
Voluntary gifts given by the people to God, reflecting their devotion and gratitude. These offerings were above and beyond the required tithes and sacrifices.

5. Consecrated Gifts
Items or offerings set apart for sacred use, dedicated to God for His purposes. These gifts were treated with reverence and used in temple service.

Teaching Points

Faithful Stewardship
Kore's role as a steward of the offerings teaches us the importance of managing God's resources with integrity and faithfulness. We are called to be trustworthy in handling what God has entrusted to us.

Voluntary Worship
The concept of freewill offerings reminds us that our worship and service to God should be voluntary and heartfelt, not merely out of obligation. Our giving should reflect our love and gratitude towards God.

Sacred Responsibility
Handling consecrated gifts requires a deep sense of reverence and responsibility. We should approach our service to God with the same seriousness, recognizing the sacred nature of our calling.

Community Support
The distribution of offerings ensured that the needs of the temple and its servants were met, highlighting the importance of supporting those who serve in ministry. We should be proactive in providing for the needs of our church community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Kore's role as a steward of the offerings challenge us in our own stewardship of resources God has given us?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our offerings to God are given freely and with the right heart attitude?

3. How can we apply the principle of handling consecrated gifts with reverence in our daily lives and service to God?

4. What steps can we take to support those who are in ministry, ensuring their needs are met as Kore did for the Levites?

5. How does the concept of faithful stewardship in 2 Chronicles 31:14 connect with the teachings of Jesus on stewardship in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 22
Discusses the regulations for offerings and the importance of presenting them in a manner that honors God. This connection emphasizes the sacredness of the gifts Kore was responsible for distributing.

Nehemiah 13
Highlights the importance of proper management and distribution of offerings, similar to Kore's role, ensuring that the needs of the temple and its servants were met.

1 Corinthians 4:2
Stresses the requirement for stewards to be faithful, paralleling Kore's responsibility in managing the offerings and gifts dedicated to God.