Does Jesus really want us to give away all we have?

Elaine Storkey challenges the usual interpretation of the New Testament story of the widow’s offering, and reveals what we can learn from it today

I wonder how many sermons you’ve heard on giving. Over the years I have heard dozens, and many of them have focused on the story in the gospels about the widow’s offering. It seems to be a favourite for preachers, especially when urging those in their church to be more generous with giving.