How does this verse connect with New Testament teachings on giving? The Command in Deuteronomy 15:20 “You are to eat it each year with your household in the presence of the LORD your God in the place the LORD will choose.” • The firstborn animals were wholly set apart for the LORD (v. 19). • Israel’s families brought the sacrifice to God’s chosen place, shared a celebratory meal, and honored Him together. • In one act they combined worship, generosity (the animal belonged to God), and community fellowship. Principles Embodied in the Old Testament Offering • First belongs to God —offering the firstborn taught that every blessing originates with Him (cf. Proverbs 3:9). • Giving is worship —eating “in the presence of the LORD” framed the gift as a joyful act of devotion, not mere duty. • Family participation —households experienced generosity together, shaping hearts for lifelong stewardship. Echoes in the Teaching of Jesus • Matthew 6:21 —“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The firstborn gift anchored hearts in God, just as Jesus urges disciples to store treasure in heaven. • Luke 6:38 —“Give, and it will be given to you….” The open-handed posture begun in Deuteronomy is affirmed by the Savior. • Mark 12:41-44 —The widow’s two coins parallel the firstborn principle: God values sacrificial, wholehearted giving over mere amount. Apostolic Guidance on Giving • Romans 12:1 —Believers now present themselves “as a living sacrifice,” fulfilling the worship element once expressed in eating the firstborn before the LORD. • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 —Paul calls for cheerful, generous giving; he echoes the joy-filled meal of Deuteronomy 15:20 and ties generosity to God’s abundant grace. • Philippians 4:18 —Paul describes the church’s gift as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God,” language that mirrors Old Testament worship. • Hebrews 13:15-16 —“Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” The writer connects tangible sharing with sacrificial worship. Timeless Applications for Today • Set aside the “first” for God —prioritize Him in budget, time, and talents as Israel did with the firstborn. • Treat giving as worship, not obligation —whether during church offerings or private generosity, consciously “eat in His presence.” • Involve the household —model and discuss generosity with children so they grow up experiencing its joy. • Give cheerfully and expect God’s provision —Old and New Testaments unite on this promise (Deuteronomy 15:10; 2 Corinthians 9:8). |
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