Definition and Importance

Purity in offering refers to the biblical principle that offerings made to God must be presented with a pure heart and in accordance with His commandments. This concept underscores the importance of sincerity, holiness, and obedience in worship. The offerings, whether they are sacrifices, tithes, or acts of service, are to be given with the right intentions and in a manner that honors God.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were given specific instructions regarding offerings. The Law of Moses outlined various types of offerings, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings. Each had its own regulations to ensure that the offerings were pure and acceptable to God.

Leviticus 22:21 states, "When a man presents a peace offering to the LORD to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering from the herd or flock, it must be without blemish to be acceptable; there must be no defect in it." This verse highlights the requirement for offerings to be without blemish, symbolizing the need for purity and perfection in what is presented to God.

Malachi 1:8 further emphasizes the importance of purity in offerings: "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 rebuke from the prophet Malachi illustrates that God is not pleased with offerings that are given carelessly or with impure motives.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the focus shifts from the physical offerings of animals and produce to the spiritual offerings of the heart and life. Jesus Christ, through His sacrifice, fulfilled the requirements of the Old Testament offerings, making way for a new covenant where believers are called to offer themselves as living sacrifices.

Romans 12:1 exhorts believers, "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." This passage calls for a life of holiness and purity, where the believer's entire being is dedicated to God.

The purity of offerings is also reflected in the attitude of giving. 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This verse highlights that the purity of an offering is not just in the act itself but in the heart and attitude of the giver.

Spiritual Implications

Purity in offering is not limited to material gifts but extends to all forms of worship and service to God. It involves a heart that is free from sin, hypocrisy, and ulterior motives. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully."

The call to purity in offering is a call to integrity and holiness in every aspect of life. It is a reminder that God desires worshipers who approach Him with reverence, sincerity, and a heart fully devoted to His will.