Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the giving of presents or gifts as a reward for service was a common practice, reflecting the cultural and social norms of the ancient Near East. This tradition is evident in several scriptural accounts, where gifts were bestowed upon individuals in recognition of their service, loyalty, or achievements.1. Joseph in Egypt One of the most notable examples of presents given to reward service is found in the account of Joseph. After interpreting Pharaoh's dreams and providing wise counsel, Joseph was elevated to a position of great authority in Egypt. Pharaoh rewarded him with gifts that signified his new status. Genesis 41:42-43 states, "Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his finger, put it on Joseph’s finger, clothed him in garments of fine linen, and placed a gold chain around his neck. He had Joseph ride in his second chariot, with men calling out before him, 'Bow the knee!' So he placed him over all the land of Egypt." 2. Daniel in Babylon Similarly, Daniel was rewarded for his service in the Babylonian court. After interpreting King Belshazzar's writing on the wall, Daniel was honored with gifts. Daniel 5:29 records, "Then Belshazzar gave an order, and they clothed Daniel in purple, placed a gold chain around his neck, and issued a proclamation concerning him that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom." 3. Mordecai in Persia In the book of Esther, Mordecai was rewarded for his loyalty to King Ahasuerus. After uncovering a plot against the king, Mordecai was honored in a public display orchestrated by Haman, who was unaware of Mordecai's identity at the time. Esther 6:10-11 describes the event: "The king said to Haman, 'Hurry! Take the robe and the horse, as you have suggested, and do just as you have proposed for Mordecai the Jew, who is sitting at the king’s gate. Do not neglect anything that you have suggested.' So Haman took the robe and the horse, robed Mordecai, and led him on horseback through the city streets, proclaiming before him, 'This is what is done for the man whom the king is delighted to honor!'" 4. The Prodigal Son In the New Testament, the parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the theme of gifts given in recognition of restored relationship and service. Upon the son's return, the father orders gifts to be given to him as a sign of acceptance and celebration. Luke 15:22 states, "But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.'" 5. The Faithful Servant The principle of rewarding faithful service is also emphasized in Jesus' teachings. In the parable of the talents, the master rewards his servants based on their stewardship. Matthew 25:21 records the master's commendation: "His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’" These examples illustrate the biblical precedent for giving presents as a reward for service, highlighting the values of loyalty, wisdom, and faithfulness. The practice underscores the importance of recognizing and honoring those who serve diligently and with integrity. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 18:12And the man said to Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels of silver in my hand, yet would I not put forth my hand against the king's son: for in our hearing the king charged you and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom. Torrey's Topical Textbook Daniel 2:6,48 Library A Strange Reward for Faithfulness Seventh Sunday after Trinity Exhortation to Resist Sin. John Chapter xvii. 24-26. The Investigative Judgment. Light through Darkness. Light through Darkness Facing Life's Record Phoebe The Pattern of Service Christian Standing and Christian Progress Resources What are the Christian themes in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Justin Martyr? | GotQuestions.org Why do the four Gospels seem to present a different message of salvation than the rest of the New Testament? | 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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