Homage

In the biblical context, homage refers to the reverence, respect, and worship given to God or, in some instances, to earthly kings and leaders as a sign of submission and loyalty. The act of homage is deeply rooted in the acknowledgment of authority and the recognition of one's position in relation to that authority.

In the Old Testament, homage is often depicted in the form of bowing or prostration. For example, in Genesis 18:2, when Abraham sees three men standing nearby, he runs to meet them and bows to the ground, demonstrating respect and reverence. Similarly, in 1 Samuel 24:8, David shows homage to King Saul by bowing with his face to the ground, despite Saul's pursuit to take his life.

The ultimate homage is due to God alone, as seen in the first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). This command underscores the exclusive worship and reverence that God demands from His people. In the New Testament, homage to Jesus Christ is evident in the actions of the Magi, who, upon finding the child Jesus, "fell down and worshiped Him" (Matthew 2:11).

Homage in the biblical sense is not merely an outward act but an expression of the heart's posture towards God. It involves recognizing His sovereignty, majesty, and holiness, and responding with a life of obedience and worship.

Offering

Offerings in the Bible are acts of giving to God as an expression of worship, gratitude, and atonement. They are a central aspect of the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as a tangible demonstration of faith and devotion.

In the Old Testament, offerings were an integral part of the sacrificial system established by God. These included burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings, each with specific instructions and purposes (Leviticus 1-7). For instance, the burnt offering was a voluntary act of worship and atonement, symbolizing the offerer's complete surrender to God (Leviticus 1:3-4).

The concept of offering extends beyond material sacrifices to include the offering of one's life and service to God. In Romans 12:1, the Apostle Paul urges believers to "present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God," which is described as a spiritual act of worship . This reflects the New Testament understanding that offerings are not limited to physical gifts but encompass the entirety of one's life dedicated to God's service.

Offerings also serve as a means of supporting the work of the ministry and aiding those in need. In the early church, believers were encouraged to give generously and cheerfully, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7, "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" .

Throughout Scripture, offerings are a vital expression of faith, gratitude, and obedience, reflecting the heart's devotion to God and His purposes.