Contributions

In the biblical context, contributions refer to offerings made by individuals to support the work of the temple, the needs of the community, or the ministry of the church. These offerings are acts of worship and expressions of gratitude towards God. In the Old Testament, contributions were often in the form of freewill offerings, which were given voluntarily and with a willing heart. Exodus 35:5 states, "Take from among you an offering to the LORD. Let everyone whose heart is willing bring an offering to the LORD: gold, silver, and bronze."

The New Testament continues this tradition of giving, emphasizing the importance of generosity and cheerful giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul 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." Contributions in the early church were used to support the apostles, aid the poor, and further the spread of the Gospel.

Tithes

Tithing is the practice of giving one-tenth of one's income or produce to God, a principle established in the Old Testament. The tithe was primarily intended to support the Levitical priesthood, the temple services, and the community's needy. Leviticus 27:30 declares, "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD."

The concept of tithing predates the Mosaic Law, as seen in Genesis 14:20 , where Abram gives Melchizedek "a tenth of everything." In the New Testament, while the specific command to tithe is not reiterated, the principle of generous and sacrificial giving is upheld. Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing in Matthew 23:23 , criticizing the Pharisees for neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness while being meticulous about tithing.

Consecrated Gifts

Consecrated gifts are offerings set apart for a sacred purpose, dedicated to God and His service. These gifts are often associated with vows or special acts of devotion. In the Old Testament, consecrated gifts could include animals, land, or other possessions dedicated to the Lord. Numbers 18:14 states, "Everything in Israel that is devoted to the LORD is yours."

The act of consecration signifies the giver's commitment to God and recognition of His sovereignty over all things. In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to consecrate not only their material possessions but also their lives to God. Romans 12:1 exhorts, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

In summary, contributions, tithes, and consecrated gifts are integral aspects of biblical teaching on stewardship and worship. They reflect the believer's acknowledgment of God's provision and their responsibility to support His work on earth.