New Testament
Luke 21:4
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For all these have given out of their abundance to the offerings of God, but she, out of her poverty, has given all she had to live on.
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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.
What Luke 21:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus observes people giving money at the temple. Many wealthy individuals contribute large amounts from their surplus, but a poor widow stands out. She donates two small coins, which is all she has to live on. This act highlights the difference between giving from abundance and giving sacrificially. The widow's offering, though small in monetary value, is significant because it represents her total commitment and trust in God. Jesus uses her example to teach that true generosity is measured not by the amount given but by the heart behind the gift. The widow's faith and willingness to give everything she had demonstrate a profound level of devotion and reliance on God, contrasting sharply with those who give out of their excess without much personal sacrifice.
How to apply Luke 21:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our own giving. It challenges us to consider whether we give out of our abundance or if we are willing to make sacrifices for the sake of others and our faith. True generosity comes from the heart, not just the wallet.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Widow's Offering (Luke 21:1–4)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 21:4 mean?
Luke 21:4 highlights the contrast between the wealthy who give from their surplus and the poor widow who gives all she has. It emphasizes that true generosity is not about the amount given but the heart and sacrifice behind the gift.
What is the significance of the widow's offering in Luke 21:4?
The widow's offering is significant because it represents total commitment and trust in God. Despite its small monetary value, her gift illustrates the idea that true generosity comes from making sacrifices for others.
How does Luke 21:4 relate to the concept of generosity?
Luke 21:4 teaches that generosity is measured by the spirit of giving rather than the amount. It challenges us to consider whether we give out of abundance or make sacrifices that reflect our faith.
What lesson can we learn from Luke 21:4?
From Luke 21:4, we learn that the value of a gift is determined by the heart behind it. The widow's willingness to give everything she had serves as a powerful example of faith and devotion.
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