Topical Bible: Presents: Generally Presented in Person

◄ Presents: Generally Presented in Person ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the act of giving presents was a significant cultural and social practice, often conducted in person to convey respect, honor, and goodwill. The personal presentation of gifts is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, reflecting the customs and values of ancient Near Eastern societies.

Old Testament Examples

One of the earliest examples of presenting gifts in person is found in the account of Abraham and Melchizedek. After Abraham's victory over the kings, Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine and blessed Abraham. In response, Abraham gave him a tenth of everything (Genesis 14:18-20). This exchange highlights the mutual respect and recognition of divine favor.

In Genesis 32, Jacob prepares to meet his estranged brother Esau after many years. Fearing Esau's wrath, Jacob sends ahead a series of gifts, including livestock, as a peace offering. He instructs his servants to present these gifts in person, saying, "I will pacify him with these gifts I am sending on ahead; later, when I see him, perhaps he will receive me" (Genesis 32:20). This personal presentation was intended to appease Esau and demonstrate Jacob's humility and desire for reconciliation.

The account of Joseph and his brothers also illustrates the importance of personal gift-giving. When Jacob's sons return to Egypt to buy grain during the famine, they bring gifts of balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachio nuts, and almonds to present to Joseph, the governor of the land (Genesis 43:11). These gifts were a gesture of goodwill and an attempt to gain favor.

New Testament Examples

In the New Testament, the Magi's visit to the young Jesus is a notable instance of presenting gifts in person. The Magi traveled from the East to worship the newborn King, bringing with them gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11). These gifts were not only valuable but also symbolically significant, representing Jesus' kingship, divinity, and future suffering.

The practice of giving in person is also evident in the early Christian community. In Acts 4:34-37, believers sold their possessions and brought the proceeds to the apostles' feet, distributing to anyone in need. This act of personal giving fostered a sense of community and mutual care among the early Christians.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The personal presentation of gifts in biblical times was more than a mere transaction; it was a relational act that conveyed honor, respect, and intention. Gifts were often given to express gratitude, seek favor, or establish peace. The act of giving in person underscored the sincerity and commitment of the giver, as well as the value placed on the relationship with the recipient.

From a theological perspective, the giving of gifts can be seen as a reflection of God's generosity and grace. Just as individuals presented gifts to one another, God has given the ultimate gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Believers are encouraged to emulate this divine generosity in their own lives, offering themselves and their resources in service to God and others.

In summary, the practice of presenting gifts in person is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, serving as a powerful expression of human relationships and divine principles.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 43:15,26
And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before Joseph.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 3:17
And he brought the present to Eglon king of Moab: and Eglon was a very fat man.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 25:27
And now this blessing which your handmaid has brought to my lord, let it even be given to the young men that follow my lord.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Return to Capernaum - Concerning the Forgiveness of Sins - the ...
... evidence in favour of the Fourth Gospel generally, but that ... In this forgiveness of
sins He presented His Person and ... faith such as the Fourth Gospel presents it ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter xvi the return to.htm

In the Thirteenth Chapter of Revelation Two Beasts are There ...
... to suppose that when the Antichrist presents himself to ... third Person of the Holy
Trinity presented as a ... Again; it has been generally recognized by prophetic ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/in the thirteenth chapter of.htm

Appendix
... royal scepter as soon as He presented Himself to ... to suppose that when the Anti-christ
presents himself to ... Again,; it has been generally recognized by prophetic ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the redeemers return/appendix.htm

Appendix (D).
... then, on S. Mark's Gospel, which generally claims on ... as might be expected) we are
presented with two ... Accordingly, he presents us in the first few lines of his ...
/.../burgon/the last twelve verses of the gospel according to s mark/appendix d.htm

First Proposition of Arminius
... These things have been said, the opportunity being presented. We agree generally
in reference to the other matters ... mode or form, since the first presents him to ...
/.../arminius/the works of james arminius vol 3/first proposition of arminius.htm

Sunday Next Before Easter.
... a person showing a hard temper, meaning, generally, a hard ... it never happen, that
if conscience presents to us ... thought of God has been actually presented to our ...
/.../arnold/the christian life/lecture xxiii sunday next before.htm

Another Archbishop
... presbyter, Isidore, but it was generally believed that ... more likely to succeed, he
prepared presents and sent ... decided for Theodosius, Isidore presented to him ...
/.../chapter xiv another archbishop.htm

Appendix (D). Some Account of victor of Antioch's Commentary on S. ...
... then, on S. Mark's Gospel, which generally claims on ... as might be expected) we are
presented with two ... Fathers of the Church.(517) Accordingly, he presents us in ...
/.../appendix d some account of.htm

Just Going to do It.
... call for the undivided attention of Mr. Burgess presented itself, that thing was
generally done, and ... "It is the only method that now presents itself, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/arthur/words for the wise/just going to do it.htm

Judas
... The history of Judas presents the sad ending of a ... to which of them should be greatest
was generally excited by ... When Jesus presented to the rich young ruler the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 76 judas.htm