THE BREAD OFFERING

PART ONE

“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life,
purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience…”
II TIMOTHY 3:10

The Greek Word here for “purpose” is πρόθεσις which is translated “shewbread” in the following scriptures; Matt 12:4, Mark 2:26, Luke 6:4, Heb 9:2. Paul in this portion of Timothy is setting forth the “marks” of a true life in contrast to those who handle the truth in unrighteousness. Often the “shewbread” (see Exodus 25:30) is mentioned as a type concerning the teachings of deeper truths and revelation of the things of God. There is an element of truth in this however the “shewbread” is, first and foremost, an offering unto GOD not man. Unfortunately today there is much emphasis placed upon the ministry of men to the church with very little concept of men ministering unto the King of Kings! The reason this Greek Word is translated “purpose” in some places of the New Testament and in others “shewbread” is that Paul, especially in this context, is seeking to impress upon the heart of Timothy that the purpose of Paul’s life was to be lived as an offering of bread unto the Lord of his life. This offering was without reserve, wholly and completely given to the ONE who was worthy to break it and give it out to others as it pleased HIM. What flowed out of that offering was not Paul’s business; his business was to give his life and it was the Lord’s business to do with it as it pleased HIM (see the feeding of the multitudes).

In light of all that Jesus accomplished at Calvary we have only one offering left to give; ourselves. This offering is no longer given because of a Law that commands us, but it is the highest of offerings. It can only be given by those who have allowed the Spirit of Grace and Mercy to work within their heart. For the law of this offering is only received on the basis of a free will offering unto the ONE who gave HIMSELF for us unto the Glory of the Father. HIS heart, HIS life and HIS love are all any of us have to so freely give. We can no longer present offerings for sin, guilt and shame for that is finished in Christ. We can no longer present offerings for our failures, weaknesses and poverty for the offering has already been given. We can now only respond by giving of ourselves unto HIM and HIM alone.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,
that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice,
holy, acceptable unto God,
which is your reasonable service”
ROMANS 12:1

Brian Troxel