The Widow’s Offering and the Heart of the Gospel

Pastor Jon Verwey

Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” — Mark 12:41–44 NLT

Jesus called his disciples to him… v. 43a

“I tell you the truth…” v. 43b

This poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions… v. 43c

…she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on v. 44b

Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich. — 2 Corinthians 8:9

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. — Ephesians 5:1–2 NLT

Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? — Romans 8:32 NLT

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7 NLT

The cross of Jesus calls us to trust God completely and live with open hands and generous hearts.