Nehemiah 10:32

We also place ourselves under the obligation to contribute a third of a shekel yearly for the service of the house of our God:

Study Bible

We also place ourselves under the obligation
This phrase indicates a voluntary commitment by the people, reflecting a covenant renewal. In the context of Nehemiah, the Israelites are reestablishing their identity and religious practices after returning from Babylonian exile. This commitment is reminiscent of the covenantal obligations found in the Mosaic Law, where the Israelites were bound to follow God's commandments (Exodus 24:3-8). It underscores the seriousness with which they approached their relationship with God, emphasizing accountability and communal responsibility.

to contribute a third of a shekel yearly
The contribution of a third of a shekel was a specific financial obligation for the maintenance of the temple services. Historically, this amount was significant, reflecting the economic conditions of the post-exilic community. The shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, and this particular contribution was likely adjusted from the original half-shekel tax mentioned in Exodus 30:13-16 due to economic constraints. This adjustment shows the flexibility within the community to adapt ancient laws to contemporary circumstances while maintaining the spirit of the law.

for the service of the house of our God
The phrase highlights the purpose of the contribution: to support the temple's operations. The "house of our God" refers to the Second Temple, rebuilt under the leadership of Zerubbabel and later enhanced by Nehemiah's efforts. The temple was central to Jewish worship and identity, serving as the place where sacrifices were offered, and festivals were celebrated. This service included providing for the daily offerings, the maintenance of the temple, and the support of the priests and Levites. The temple's function as a place of atonement and worship points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is seen as the true temple (John 2:19-21) and the ultimate high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish leader who played a crucial role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the Jewish people after the Babylonian exile.

2. The Israelites
The community of Jewish people who returned from exile and were recommitting themselves to the covenant with God, including financial support for temple services.

3. The House of Our God
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was central to Jewish worship and community life.

4. The Covenant Renewal
The event where the Israelites, under Nehemiah's leadership, renewed their commitment to follow God's laws, including financial obligations for temple services.

5. The Third of a Shekel
A specific financial obligation that the Israelites agreed to contribute annually for the maintenance and service of the temple.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God's Work
Just as the Israelites took responsibility for the temple's needs, Christians today are called to support their local church and its ministries through regular giving.

Community Responsibility
The collective commitment of the Israelites serves as a model for how the church community should work together to meet the needs of the congregation and its mission.

Faithful Stewardship
The principle of giving a portion of one's resources to God's work is a timeless practice that reflects trust in God's provision and prioritization of spiritual over material wealth.

Covenant Renewal
Regularly renewing our commitment to God, including financial commitments, helps keep our focus on His purposes and aligns our lives with His will.

Joyful Giving
Understanding the purpose and impact of our contributions can transform giving from a duty to a joyful act of worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commitment of the Israelites in Nehemiah 10:32 challenge our current approach to supporting our local church financially?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our giving is a reflection of our commitment to God and not just a routine obligation?

3. How does the principle of community responsibility in Nehemiah 10:32 apply to modern church life and ministry?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to renew our commitment to God, similar to the covenant renewal in Nehemiah's time?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of joyful giving, and what scriptures can we meditate on to encourage this attitude?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:11-16
This passage describes the original command for a census tax, which was a half-shekel offering for the maintenance of the tabernacle. Nehemiah 10:32 reflects a similar principle of communal responsibility for worship.

2 Chronicles 24:4-14
This passage recounts King Joash's efforts to repair the temple, highlighting the importance of financial contributions for the upkeep of God's house.

Malachi 3:8-10
This passage addresses the issue of tithes and offerings, emphasizing the importance of giving to support the work of God and the blessings that follow faithful stewardship.