How does Exodus 13:2 connect with the concept of firstfruits in the New Testament? Exodus 13:2—The Principle Established “Consecrate to Me every firstborn, the first offspring of every womb among the Israelites, both of man and beast; it belongs to Me.” (Exodus 13:2) • God claims the firstborn as uniquely His own. • Consecration means setting apart exclusively for the Lord’s use. • This act follows the Passover, underscoring redemption: the spared firstborn are now devoted to the One who redeemed them. Firstborn and Firstfruits—Shared DNA • Both ideas highlight “the first” as belonging to God. • “Firstborn” emphasizes persons and animals; “firstfruits” focuses on produce (Leviticus 23:9-14). • Common threads: – Ownership: The first portion is God’s rightful claim. – Representation: The first portion sanctifies the rest (Romans 11:16). – Thanksgiving: Offering the first acknowledges God as Provider and Redeemer. Jesus Christ: The Ultimate Firstfruits • “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20) • As firstfruits, Jesus: – Fulfills the Old Testament pattern; His resurrection guarantees the harvest of resurrected believers. – Mirrors Exodus 13: the Firstborn Son is consecrated through sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10). • “He is the beginning and firstborn from among the dead, so that in all things He may have preeminence.” (Colossians 1:18) Believers: A Consecrated Harvest • “We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for our adoption.” (Romans 8:23) • “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of His creation.” (James 1:18) • Because we are redeemed by the Greater Firstborn, we now belong to God as His consecrated portion: – Our bodies (Romans 12:1). – Our possessions (Proverbs 3:9). – Our time and talents (1 Peter 4:10-11). Living the Connection Today • Give God the first and best, not the leftovers. • Celebrate resurrection hope—every Lord’s Day is a reminder of the Firstfruits risen. • Walk in holiness, reflecting the consecration that began with the firstborn in Exodus and is fulfilled in Christ. |
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