InstaStudy

The Profound Lesson of the Widow's Mite

An exploration of the biblical account of the widow's offering, revealing timeless principles of sacrifice, faith, and the true nature of devotion to the one God.

1. Jesus's Observation and Teaching on Giving

1.1 Jesus in the Temple Treasury

Verses: Mark 12:41; Luke 21:1
  • Jesus observed the givers, highlighting His awareness of our actions.
  • The temple treasury was a place of public giving, visible to all.
  • This setting provides the context for a profound spiritual lesson.

1.2 The Offerings of the Rich

Verses: Mark 12:41; Luke 21:1
  • Many rich people cast in large sums, demonstrating their abundance.
  • Their giving was from their surplus, not requiring personal sacrifice.
  • Jesus noted their contributions, but His focus was elsewhere.

1.3 The Widow's Humble Offering

Verses: Mark 12:42; Luke 21:2
  • A poor widow gave two mites, the smallest of coins.
  • Her offering was seemingly insignificant in monetary value.
  • This small act caught the attention of the Lord.

2. The Depth of Her Sacrifice

2.1 Her State of Poverty

Verses: Mark 12:42; Luke 21:2
  • She was identified as a 'poor widow,' indicating extreme financial hardship.
  • Her circumstances made her offering particularly poignant.
  • She had no earthly security or safety net.

2.2 Giving Her 'All'

Verses: Mark 12:43-44; Luke 21:3-4
  • Jesus declared she gave 'all that she had, even all her living.'
  • This was a complete surrender, leaving nothing for herself.
  • Her offering was a testament to absolute trust in God.

2.3 The Contrast with Others' Giving

Verses: Mark 12:44; Luke 21:4
  • The rich gave from their abundance, while she gave from her poverty.
  • Their gifts were large in quantity, hers was large in sacrifice.
  • Jesus emphasized the proportion and heart over the amount.

3. The Heart of True Worship and Giving

3.1 God Looks at the Heart

Verses: 1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 21:2
  • The Lord does not see as man sees; He looks at the heart.
  • The widow's motive and devotion were paramount to God.
  • True worship is an internal disposition, not just external acts.

3.2 Faith in Action

Verses: Hebrews 11:6; James 2:18
  • Her giving demonstrated profound faith in God's ability to provide.
  • She trusted God completely, even in her dire circumstances.
  • Faith without works is dead, and her act was living faith.

3.3 The Value of Sacrifice

Verses: Romans 12:1; Philippians 4:18
  • God values sacrificial giving that costs us something.
  • Our offerings should reflect our love and devotion to Him.
  • A willing heart and a costly gift are precious in His sight.

4. Implications for Discipleship

4.1 Our Relationship with God

Verses: Matthew 6:21; John 14:15
  • Where our treasure is, there our heart will be also.
  • Our giving reflects the depth of our love and commitment to the Lord.
  • Serving the one true God with our whole being is paramount.

4.2 Giving Our Best

Verses: Colossians 3:23; 2 Corinthians 9:7
  • We are called to give our best to God, not just our leftovers.
  • A cheerful giver is loved by God, regardless of the amount.
  • Our offerings should be a reflection of our gratitude and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ.

4.3 Trusting God's Provision

Verses: Matthew 6:33; Philippians 4:19
  • When we prioritize God, He promises to meet our needs.
  • The widow's example encourages us to trust God completely.
  • The Lord, who is our provider, will never leave us nor forsake us.