Text: Mark 12:41-44
The Rich Were Not Condemned
- Jesus made a comparison between the rich men & the poor widow — but He was not condemning the rich
- We cannot put all of our money into the treasury — God requires a portion (1 Corinthians 16:2)
- There are other things God expects us to do with our money (2 Thessalonians 3:8-10; 1 Timothy 5:8; 6:18)
- However, one can contribute & still be condemned (Acts 5:1-2) — we must give with the right attitude (2 Corinthians 9:7)
The Widow Was Commended
- She made a real sacrifice — gave everything to God
- She did not make excuses — if she gave nothing, it is unlikely that those familiar with her circumstances would have looked down on her
- She put her trust in God — this is the only way one can give this generously (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
Lessons for Today
- Ask yourself: Are you giving what you can? … No one else can answer this question for you
- Don’t compare yourself with others — God judges us according to our ability (2 Corinthians 8:12)
- Put spiritual things first (Matthew 6:19-21)
- Live by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7)