How does Exodus 29:28 connect to New Testament teachings on giving? Setting the Old Testament Scene - Israel’s priests lived in full-time service at the tabernacle. - The people brought offerings, and specific portions were set aside to sustain Aaron and his sons. - Exodus 29:28: “This will belong to Aaron and his sons and be their perpetual portion from the Israelites; for it is a contribution. It must be offered as a portion from the Israelites from their peace offerings—this is their contribution to the LORD.” Key Principle in Exodus 29:28 - God links giving to Him with providing for those who minister on His behalf. - The offering is called both “their contribution to the LORD” and “a perpetual portion” for the priests—showing that supporting leaders is an act of worship to God Himself. Threads Woven into the New Testament - Support for ministers • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14: “Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of the altar’s offerings? In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • 1 Timothy 5:17-18 echoes the same “laborer deserves his wages” principle. - Sharing material goods with teachers • Galatians 6:6: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” - Giving as worship, mirroring sacrificial offerings • Philippians 4:17-18: Paul calls the Philippians’ gift “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” - Cheerful generosity • 2 Corinthians 9:6-7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” While Exodus emphasizes obedience, the New Testament adds the heart attitude of joy. - Ongoing, “perpetual” care of needs • Hebrews 13:16: “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Practical Take-aways for Today - Giving remains first and foremost an act of worship. - Providing for pastors, missionaries, and other gospel workers is a direct continuation of the priest-support model. - Just as Israel’s gifts enabled uninterrupted ministry, modern giving safeguards gospel proclamation and congregational care. - God still calls offerings “pleasing sacrifices,” so earthly resources become spiritual service. Encouragement to Participate Joyfully - See your offering not as loss but as joining a centuries-long chain of worshipers. - Remember that God Himself counts the gift as given to Him (Matthew 25:40). - Embrace both obedience (Exodus 29:28) and cheerfulness (2 Corinthians 9:7), trusting that the Lord delights in generous hearts and sustains His servants through His people. |
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