Luke 21:2 – “He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus notices a poor widow giving her offering at the temple. She places two small copper coins—known as leptas—into the treasury. Though this may seem like a tiny, almost insignificant amount compared to the large donations made by the wealthy, Jesus sees it differently. He recognizes the profound faith and trust behind her gift. This widow’s act of giving demonstrates complete reliance on God because she gives everything she has, not out of her excess but out of her need. Jesus will go on to praise her as an example of true generosity and faith.
Historical Context
In Jewish society at the time, widows were among the most vulnerable. Without a husband to provide for them, they often lived in poverty, relying on the charity of others. The temple treasury had thirteen collection boxes shaped like trumpets, where people made offerings. Wealthy individuals often gave large amounts in a public manner, drawing attention and respect. In contrast, this widow quietly gives her last coins—an offering worth very little in monetary terms but immense in spiritual value.
The copper coins she offers were called leptas, the smallest coins in circulation at the time. Together, they were worth about a fraction of a day’s wages. By giving both coins, she demonstrates her willingness to trust God completely with her livelihood.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores a fundamental truth about God’s view of generosity. God doesn’t measure the size of a gift by its monetary value but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. The widow’s offering shows a deep dependence on God. She trusts that He will take care of her, even though she has given everything she has to live on.
This passage also serves as a warning against pride in religious practice. The wealthy may have given large amounts, but without genuine sacrifice or faith, their offerings meant far less to God. This aligns with Jesus’ teachings throughout the Gospels that emphasize humility, self-denial, and trust in God.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s Gospel frequently highlights God’s concern for the poor and marginalized. This verse is part of a narrative that contrasts the wealthy and the widow to teach a spiritual principle. The literary structure uses comparison to drive home Jesus’ point: true greatness in God’s eyes often comes from those society overlooks.
The verse is also rich in symbolism. The widow’s offering of her last two coins mirrors the idea of complete surrender, a theme that recurs in Jesus’ teachings on discipleship (e.g., Luke 9:23, where Jesus speaks of taking up one’s cross and following Him).
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
- Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
- Mark 12:43-44 – The parallel account in Mark’s Gospel, where Jesus explicitly praises the widow’s offering.
- 1 Kings 17:7-16 – The story of the widow of Zarephath, who trusted God and provided for the prophet Elijah with her last bit of food.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse invites Christians to examine their attitude toward giving and generosity. It’s not about how much you give, but how much faith and love you put into your giving. In a world that often values wealth and success, this story reminds us that God honors acts of trust and sacrifice, even if they seem small in human terms.
It also encourages believers to trust God fully with their resources. Like the widow, we are called to rely on Him, knowing that He will provide for our needs. Her example inspires us to give with open hearts, not holding back out of fear or self-preservation.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love for His people is evident in how He values the widow’s offering. While others may overlook or dismiss her, God sees her and honors her faith. This reflects His care for the poor and vulnerable. The widow’s willingness to give everything she has is an expression of trust in God’s love and provision.
This story also reveals that God is not impressed by outward appearances or material wealth. He loves His people deeply and desires their hearts above all. He wants them to live with the assurance that He will care for them, just as He watches over the widow in this passage.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself embodies the ultimate example of self-sacrificial giving. Just as the widow gave all she had, Jesus would soon give His life for the salvation of humanity. He lived in complete trust and obedience to His Father, even when it meant facing suffering and death on the cross.
In Philippians 2:6-8, Paul describes how Jesus “made himself nothing” and took on the form of a servant, humbling Himself to the point of death. This mirrors the widow’s act of surrender and trust. Through her example, we are reminded of the sacrificial love that Jesus demonstrated for us.
Additionally, Jesus’ focus on the widow aligns with His mission to uplift the humble and offer hope to the marginalized (Luke 4:18). He continually emphasized that God’s kingdom is for those who trust Him fully, regardless of their social or economic status.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the widow’s example challenge your understanding of generosity and faith?
- Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to trust Him more fully?
- In what ways can you give—whether your time, resources, or talents—in a way that honors God and reflects your trust in Him?
- How does this story shape your view of how God values people and their actions?
- How can you apply the principle of sacrificial giving in your daily life?
This passage invites us to live with hearts fully devoted to God, trusting Him with everything we have and knowing that He sees and honors even the smallest acts of faith.