In the first episode of this season on ‘Money According to the Bible’, Simon and Bex identify key themes that are introduced in the Old Testament Books of the Law.
Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:
- Simon explains that this new season of the podcast will explore what the Bible says about money by tracing key themes as they emerge and develop through the Old and New Testaments. He has been helped in this endeavour by being able to draw on a resource produced by Howard Dayton called ‘2350 Verses on Money and Possessions’. [02:54]
- This episode identifies some key themes that are introduced in the Old Testament Books of the Law (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy). [03:54]
- Simon notes that the topic of how much we should give is mentioned early on in the Bible, with the concept of donating a tithe (a tenth) of our wealth to God receiving a mention as early as Genesis 14. [06:07]
- Bex then goes on to remark that while the expectation that God’s people will give is in the process of being formalised into a legal requirement, there is also very strong emphasis on generosity and a willingness to give being crucial ingredients. This point is illustrated with reference to Exodus 35, a chapter which also provides examples of other themes which will go on to be significant throughout the Bible, including (i) giving not being restricted to money, and (ii) the contribution that creativity can make to giving. [10:16]
- Two other key principles are identified: the importance of prioritising giving to God by setting aside ‘first fruits’ for Him; and the importance of providing for those in need, for example by means of a ‘Sabbath Year’ from which they can benefit. [13:49]
- Simon draws attention to the thought-provoking and challenging concept of the Year of Jubilee (the ’Sabbath of Sabbaths’) as outlined in Leviticus 25, which embodies principles of social justice, debt relief and stewardship. [18:38]
- When wrapping up this episode, Bex and Simon talk about the opportunities and challenges that arise from the theme that is developed in the Bible of there being a ‘Promised Land’ for God’s people. [22:46]
- Finally, Simon lists a number of other themes relating to money, wealth and possessions (including investing, borrowing and debt) that are brought to our attention within the first five books of the Bible. [25:04]
- The next episode in this season will explore what the Books of History in the Old Testament have to say about money. [26:08]
Suggestions or feedback arising from this episode can be sent via email to whereyourtreasureis@freerangepodcasting.co.uk while messages via Instagram should be directed to @whereyourtreasureispodcast.
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