Nehemiah 12:44-47 – The Functioning of the Body
When the apostle Paul was writing to the church in Corinth, he reminded them that the church of the Lord Jesus Christ as a body was made up of many parts and although all did not have the same function or the same prominence, they were all vital in the proper functioning of the body (1 Cor. 12:1-31). That is precisely what is seen in this section of chapter 12.
The chapter speaks of those who had been given public and prominent roles in the service of dedication: the priests, Levites, singers and musicians, but it also mentions those whose role was seemingly more mundane and less prominent. In verse 44 we read of those who were appointed to be in charge of the storerooms for the contributions, first fruits, and tithes. There are important lessons for us here:
1. It is the duty of the people of God to give for the support of the work of the Lord. Old Testament law made provision for the priests and Levites to be supported by the tithes of the people and the New Testament continues to enunciate the same principle. Deut. 18:1-8; 1 Cor. 9:13-14.
2. There are many different tasks to be performed in the church of the Lord Jesus Christ and every one has merit and significance. It was not just the priests and the Levites who were seen to be important in the work of the sanctuary, but also the singers and the gatekeepers. Each one of these was considered to be serving the Lord as they carried out their respective functions. It must surely be so in every congregation of God’s people. The minister and elders have their responsibilities in teaching and ruling, the deacons in administration and temporal care, the precentors in leading the praise, the Sabbath school teachers in instructing the young. No less important are those who make the tea and clean the building – all are serving together for the honour and glory of God.
Questions
- What ways did the people support the work of God?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.