Topical Encyclopedia The concept of contributing, particularly in the context of giving and supporting others, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. It encompasses financial support, sharing of resources, and offering one's time and talents for the benefit of others and the glory of God. The act of contributing is often seen as a reflection of one's faith and obedience to God's commandments.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the principle of contributing is closely tied to the laws and practices of the Israelites. The Mosaic Law included specific instructions on tithing and offerings. Leviticus 27:30 states, "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD." This commandment established the practice of giving a tenth of one's produce to support the Levitical priesthood and the work of the Tabernacle. The concept of contributing extends beyond tithes to include freewill offerings and support for the needy. Deuteronomy 15:10-11 instructs, "Give generously to him, and do not let your heart be grieved when you do so. And because of this, the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything to which you put your hand. There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land." New Testament Context In the New Testament, the teachings of Jesus and the apostles further emphasize the importance of contributing to the needs of others. Jesus Himself highlighted the value of generosity and selflessness. In Luke 6:38 , He taught, "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you." The early church exemplified a spirit of communal support and contribution. Acts 2:44-45 describes the early believers: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This passage illustrates the willingness of the early Christians to contribute their resources for the common good. The Apostle Paul also addressed the importance of contributing to the needs of others. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 , he writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." Paul emphasizes that contributions should be made willingly and joyfully, reflecting a heart aligned with God's purposes. Spiritual Significance Contributing is not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual act that reflects one's relationship with God and others. It is an expression of love, compassion, and stewardship. The Bible teaches that contributing to the needs of others is a way to honor God and demonstrate His love to the world. In Matthew 25:40 , Jesus says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me." The act of contributing is also linked to the blessings and rewards promised by God. Proverbs 11:25 states, "A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." This verse underscores the reciprocal nature of giving, where those who contribute to others' well-being are themselves enriched. In summary, the biblical principle of contributing encompasses a wide range of actions and attitudes, all rooted in a desire to serve God and others. It is a vital aspect of Christian living, reflecting the heart of God and the teachings of Scripture. Greek 1261. dialogismos -- a reasoning ... Cognate: 1261 (from 1260 , "") - reasoning that is self-based and therefore confused -- especially as it contributes to reinforcing others in discussion to ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1261.htm - 7k Library In what Respect Philosophy Contributes to the Comprehension of ... Causes and Circumstances of Dreams what Best Contributes to ... Trypho Asks Whether a Man who Keeps the Law Even Now Will be Saved ... How we are to Conform Ourselves to that Divine Will, which is ... 1 Cor. Iii. 18, 19 Whether the Justification of the Ungodly is Achieved ... Of the Origin of the Word "With," and what Force it Has. Also ... Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity. Summary of the First Part of the Foregoing System. Elegance and Grace Thesaurus Contributes (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Contributes (1 Occurrence). Romans 12:8 or he who exhorts, to his exhorting: he who gives, let him do it ... /c/contributes.htm - 6k Contributed (13 Occurrences) Commentaries Contributing (4 Occurrences) Contributory (1 Occurrence) Comfort (130 Occurrences) Papyrus (4 Occurrences) Chronology Archaeology Minor (2 Occurrences) Resources Do we contribute anything to our own salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the problem of good? | GotQuestions.org How should Christian parents respond to having a child with Down syndrome? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Contributes (1 Occurrence)Romans 12:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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