Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the giving and receiving of presents or gifts was a common practice, often symbolizing respect, allegiance, or reconciliation. However, the Scriptures also provide instances where presents, if deemed small or defective, were refused, highlighting the importance of sincerity and the quality of offerings.Malachi 1:6-14 The prophet Malachi addresses the issue of defective offerings in the context of the Israelites' worship. The priests were accepting blemished animals for sacrifices, which was contrary to the Law that required offerings to be without defect. Malachi 1:8 states, "When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is it not wrong? And when you present the lame and sick, is it not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you or show you favor?" This passage underscores the principle that God deserves the best, and anything less is unacceptable. Genesis 4:3-5 The account of Cain and Abel provides an early example of how the quality of an offering affects its acceptance. Abel's offering was accepted because it was from the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions, indicating the best he had to offer. In contrast, Cain's offering was rejected, as it was not given with the same level of faith and sincerity. Genesis 4:4-5 notes, "The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but He had no regard for Cain and his offering." Proverbs 15:8 The wisdom literature of the Bible also speaks to the nature of offerings. Proverbs 15:8 states, "The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the LORD, but the prayer of the upright is His delight." This proverb suggests that the heart and character of the giver are more significant than the gift itself. A defective or insincere offering is not pleasing to God, regardless of its material value. Isaiah 1:11-17 The prophet Isaiah conveys God's disdain for insincere worship and offerings. In Isaiah 1:13 , God declares, "Bring your worthless offerings no more; your incense is detestable to Me." The Israelites were performing religious rituals without genuine devotion, rendering their offerings unacceptable. This passage emphasizes that God values righteousness and justice over ritualistic offerings. 2 Samuel 24:24 King David provides a personal example of refusing to offer something that cost him nothing. When offered the threshing floor and oxen for free to make a sacrifice to the LORD, David insists on paying for them, saying, "I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing" (2 Samuel 24:24). This demonstrates the principle that true offerings require personal sacrifice and should not be defective or without value. In summary, the biblical narrative consistently teaches that presents or offerings, when small or defective, are refused by God. The heart and intention behind the gift, as well as its quality, are crucial in determining its acceptability. The Scriptures call for offerings that reflect genuine devotion, respect, and the best of what one has to offer. Torrey's Topical Textbook Malachi 1:8And if you offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now to your governor; will he be pleased with you, or accept your person? said the LORD of hosts. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Augsburg Confession, 1530. Conclusion. Death Appendix i. Pericope De Adultera. The Iranian Conquest Seances Historiques De Geneve --The National Church. Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Evangelical Revival. Covenant Duties. Chapter xxvi Resources Does Hebrews 6:4-6 mean we can lose our salvation? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan? | GotQuestions.org What is libertarian free will? | GotQuestions.org Presents: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Presents of Persons of Rank, of Great Value and Variety Presents were Given by Kings to Each Other in Token of Inferiority Presents were Given in Token of Friendship Presents were Given: As Tribute Presents were Given: At Marriages Presents were Given: On all Occasions of Public Rejoicing Presents were Given: On Occasions of Visits Presents were Given: On Recovering from Sickness Presents were Given: On Restoration to Prosperity Presents were Given: On Sending Away Friends Presents were Given: To Appease the Angry Feelings of Others Presents were Given: To Confirm Covenants Presents were Given: To Judges to Secure a Favourable Hearing Presents were Given: To Kings to Engage Their Aid Presents were Given: To Reward Service Presents were Given: To Show Respect Presents: Considered Essential on all Visits of Business Presents: Generally Presented in Person Presents: Generally Procured a Favourable Reception Presents: Laid out and Presented With Great Ceremony Presents: Not Bringing, Considered a Mark of Disrespect Presents: Often Borne by Servants Presents: Often Conveyed on Camels Presents: Receiving of, a Token of Good Will Presents: Sometimes Sent Before the Giver Presents: Things Given as Cattle Presents: Things Given as Food Presents: Things Given as Garments Presents: Things Given as Gold and Silver Vessels Presents: Things Given as Horses and Mules Presents: Things Given as Money Presents: Things Given as Ornaments Presents: Things Given as Precious Stones Presents: Things Given as Servants Presents: Things Given as Weapons of War Presents: when Small or Defective, Refused Related Terms |
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