Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In the biblical context, contributing refers to the act of giving or sharing resources, such as time, money, or talents, for the benefit of others and the advancement of God's kingdom. This concept is deeply rooted in the principles of stewardship, generosity, and community support as outlined in Scripture. Old Testament Insights: The Old Testament lays a foundation for the practice of contributing through various laws and teachings. The Israelites were commanded to give tithes and offerings as a form of worship and obedience to God. 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 practice ensured that the needs of the Levites, the poor, and the temple were met. The principle of gleaning, as seen in Leviticus 19:9-10, also highlights the importance of contributing to the welfare of the less fortunate: "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreign resident. I am the LORD your God." New Testament Teachings: The New Testament expands on the concept of contributing, emphasizing the heart and attitude behind giving. Jesus taught about the importance of generosity and selflessness in passages such as Luke 6:38: "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 communal living and sacrificial giving. Acts 2:44-45 describes the believers' practice: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This model of contributing ensured that no one among them lacked necessities. The Apostle Paul also addressed the importance of contributing to the needs of others. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, he writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." Paul encouraged the churches to support one another and to contribute to the needs of the saints, as seen in Romans 12:13: "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality." Spiritual Significance: Contributing is not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual act that reflects one's faith and trust in God. It is an expression of love and obedience, recognizing that all resources ultimately belong to God. Proverbs 3:9-10 instructs believers to "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to contribute in various ways, including financial support to the church, charitable giving, volunteering time and skills, and offering hospitality. The act of contributing should be done willingly and joyfully, as an act of worship and service to God and others. Through contributing, Christians participate in God's work on earth, support the spread of the Gospel, and demonstrate the love of Christ to the world. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Contribute.Greek 2841. koinoneo -- to have a share of ... See 2842 (). Word Origin from koinonos Definition to have a share of NASB Word Usage contributing (1), participates (1), share (4), shared (2). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2841.htm - 7k 4632. skeuos -- a vessel, implement, pl. goods 1247. diakoneo -- to serve, minister Library History of the Mt. Byrd Church. When Established. Where. Charter ... Our Forefathers have Handed Down to us the Tradition, That, after ... Footnotes: Peculiarities of Tennessee Synod. Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel Introduction From the Close of the General Conference of 1828 to the Beginning ... The Church and the Young Man. From the Close of the General Conference of 1824 to the ... The Church and Other Rural Agencies Thesaurus Contributing (4 Occurrences)... n.) of Contribute. Multi-Version Concordance Contributing (4 Occurrences). ... (See NIV). Romans 12:13 contributing to the needs of the saints; given to hospitality. ... /c/contributing.htm - 7k Contribution (24 Occurrences) Vital (2 Occurrences) Wholesome (10 Occurrences) Favorable (18 Occurrences) Tributary (9 Occurrences) Mesech (1 Occurrence) Meshech (11 Occurrences) Pool (25 Occurrences) Beneficial (3 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about dealing with mental illness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does Jesus want us to learn from what He said about the widow's mite? | GotQuestions.org What is ultimate reconciliation? | GotQuestions.org Contributing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Contributing (4 Occurrences)Mark 12:43 Luke 8:3 Romans 12:8 Romans 12:13 Subtopics Related Terms Contributions (19 Occurrences) |