The Pentecost offering commanded in Deuteronomy 16:9-12 reveals important truths about being under authority, a theme that emerges through God's specific instructions for this holy day tribute. The Hebrew word used for this offering, missat, literally means abundance or sufficiency, yet most translators render it as "tribute"—a gift given by a subject to a Lord in recognition of his rulership. This translation choice carries significant weight, for it teaches that believers owe God tribute as their Overlord, emphasizing that they are under authority and in subjection, not the final arbiters of their own lives and destinies, despite modern notions of individual sovereignty. This concept of subjection intensifies in the New Testament, where the relationship is described not merely as citizens under a ruling nation but as slaves under a Master. Believers are reminded that their bodies are not their own but were bought at a price, and that having been freed from slavery to sin, they have become slaves of righteousness and of God. This slavery, unlike bondage to sin, leads to holiness and everlasting life, making the servant-master relationship with God essential and good rather than oppressive. Giving tribute also establishes that believers belong to something greater than themselves—a kingdom—and as citizens of that kingdom, they bear responsibilities. Just as a body has many parts each fulfilling its own function, a kingdom requires various forms of service for its business to run. Tribute may take the form of money, time, or energy, and sometimes God calls His people to specific acts of service and sacrifice, echoing the exhortation not to forget to do good and to share, since such sacrifices please God. Deuteronomy 16:12 adds a crucial reminder: to remember having been a slave in Egypt. This calls attention to the deliverance from bondage to Satan the Devil into subjection to Christ, whose yoke is easy and burden light. Though both conditions involve being under authority, the contrast is stark—slavery to sin was harsh, while subjection to Christ is loving, kind, gentle, merciful, and good. The instruction to "be careful to observe" all that God commands introduces the requirement of obedience as inherent to being under authority. Just as a servant must act immediately at a master's command, believers must be ready to obey without hesitation, recognizing that their righteousness must exceed even that of the Pharisees to enter God's kingdom. This obedience is not merely personal but connects to the broader responsibilities of kingdom citizenship. Ultimately, the Pentecost offering teaches that believers are subjects of a great King, obligated to render tribute in recognition of their position under Him. This recognition of authority carries with it both the requirement of obedience and the call to sacrifice beyond mere personal obligation—extending outward toward the good of God's kingdom and the church that represents it on earth, urging the rich to be rich also in good works, ready to give and willing to share.