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NASB | Matthew 21:12 ¶ And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all those who were buying and selling in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 21:12 ¶ And Jesus entered the temple [grounds] and drove out [with force] all who were buying and selling [birds and animals for sacrifice] in the temple area, and He turned over the tables of the moneychangers [who made a profit exchanging foreign money for temple coinage] and the chairs of those who were selling doves [for sacrifice]. [Mark 11:15-18; Luke 19:45-47; John 2:14-16] |
Bible Question: Annually, our church hosts a chicken barbeque supper to raise funds for some special project. Recently some ladies of the church had a "yard sale" at the church to raise money to purchase new bibles for the children. Additionally, one of our members plans on setting up a table to sell jewelry she makes. A portion of her profit will be given to the Church. In relation to to Matthew 21:12, I have a problem with all of this, especially the jewelry table. Please help. |
Bible Answer: smerka, Read Matthew Henry's commentary on the Bible for Matthew 21:12 and also John 2:14-15. This may help. I personally believe anything that is done in God for his glory cannot be wrong. For example, how can the sales at your church be wrong if the objective is to take the money and buy the children new Bibles? On the other hand, I also think it has to be done of God and for his glory. Not part of the way but all the way. Although I don't want to sound as if I am judging the person who plans to sell jewelry, I think just giving part of the proceeds to the church is like renting space at God's house to boost sales. If a small portion of the proceeds where used to buy more materials to build more jewelry to make more money for God's work then more power to her. But if the objective is to make a profit for one's self I think we have to be careful how we allow God's house to be used. I hope this helps in some way but be sure if God has placed this on your heart then seek his will and it will be revealed to you. God bless you and your church! |