Luke 21:4
For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.
Luke 21:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the Gospel of Luke, illustrates the story of the widow's offering. In this passage, Jesus observes wealthy individuals making offerings at the temple, but it is the actions of a poor widow that truly capture his attention. While the wealthy individuals give out of their abundance, the widow gives all that she has, emphasizing the value of sacrificial giving. Despite having very little to her name, the widow's act of giving demonstrates her faith and devotion to God. This passage serves as a reminder that God values not the amount of our material possessions, but the sincerity and intention behind our giving. It challenges us to consider our own attitudes towards giving and the level of sacrifice we are willing to make in service to God and others. The widow's offering serves as a powerful example of selflessness, faith, and dedication to God's work.
Theological Overview
Many theologians interpret this verse from a theological perspective that emphasizes the sacrificial nature of giving to God. The verse highlights the contrast between the wealthy individuals who give out of their abundance and the poor widow who gives sacrificially out of her poverty. The theological interpretation of this verse often centers on the concept of generosity and faith. The wealthy are commended for their giving, but the poor widow is held up as an example of true sacrificial giving, as she gives all that she has. This interpretation underscores the idea that God values not just the amount of a gift, but the heart behind it and the level of sacrifice involved. The word studies on this verse often focus on the meaning of terms like "abundance" and "penury" to bring out the full depth of the contrast being made. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of giving with a generous and sacrificial heart.
Luke 21:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
for all these did of their superfluity cast in unto the gifts; but she of her want did cast in all the living that she had.
World English Bible
for all these put in gifts for God from their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, put in all that she had to live on.”
Douay-Rheims
For all these have of their abundance cast into the offerings of God: but she of her want hath cast in all the living that she had.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For they all haue of their superfluitie cast into the offerings of God: but she of her penurie hath cast in all the liuing that she had.