What does Exodus 13:2 teach about God's ownership and our stewardship responsibilities? The Verse at the Center “Consecrate to Me every firstborn male. The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to Me, whether human or animal.” (Exodus 13:2) God’s Declarations in One Sentence The firstborn are His, because everything is His. What God’s Ownership Looks Like • He speaks in the language of possession: “belongs to Me.” • He singles out the “firstborn,” the most treasured portion, underscoring total claim over the whole. • He wraps command in covenant grace; this follows the Passover rescue in Exodus 12, showing redemption grounds ownership. Key Principles for Stewardship 1. God owns by right of creation (Psalm 24:1). 2. God owns by right of redemption (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). 3. Stewardship begins with consecration—the setting apart of what is most valued. 4. If the first and best are His, everything that follows must be managed under His direction. Practical Expressions Today • Time: Offer the first moments of each day in Scripture and praise. • Resources: Tithe and give generously, reflecting Malachi 3:10. • Family: Dedicate children to the Lord’s purposes, trusting His plan. • Talents: Employ gifts for building up the church (1 Peter 4:10). • Body and life: Present yourself as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). Christ, the Ultimate Firstborn • Jesus is “the firstborn over all creation” (Colossians 1:15) and “firstborn from the dead” (Colossians 1:18). • His consecration and sacrifice fulfill the pattern of Exodus 13 and secure our redemption. • In Him, stewardship shifts from duty to joyful worship. Living the Lesson Consecrate the first and best to the Lord; manage the rest as His faithful steward, recognizing that every breath, gift, and possession remains under His sovereign ownership. |
    |