For me, it is an illustration of the contrast between exegesis and eisegesis. Was the old widow who gave of her want to the Temple treasury in Sunday's reading truly a wholesome example? Or was she part of a guilt trip Jesus was pulling on the disciples? Elizabeth Kaeton says it might be the latter (possibly).
Guilt. I’m sorry, but that’s what I hear in this morning’s gospel. Guilt.
In the story of the Widow’s Mite, I hear Jesus sending his disciples on a guilt trip this morning. Ah, look at all the rich people putting large sums into the religious coffers. Now, look at the poor widow, putting in two small copper coins–-all she had. And yet, says Jesus, she has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury.
See? Get the picture? I do. And, it has GUILT writ large all over it. Then again, maybe it’s not guilt. Perhaps I see guilt because I’m so sensitive to it. Motivation by guilt is an old trick my mother used at the drop of a hat.
You can read the whole thing here.
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2 comments:
Of course, all good preaching is eisegetical.
Of course, I was using the same technique Jesus uses to catch the attention and capture the imagination of his disciples.
And, you did the same thing by leading your readers to my sermon.
Well done, Timothy.
This is also quite a compliment, coming from you as it does.
I want you to know that the subtlety of that compliment did not escape me.
And that I appreciate it more than I can say.
I hope to be able to live up to the standard of having my sermons read by your readership from time to time.
I hope to be in Ft. Worth again soon. When I know the date, I'll write and perhaps we could share a cuppajoe, as we say here in North Jersey. (cuppajoe = coffee)
Thank you. I don't like coffee myself, but I'd be enjoy the company.
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