What connections exist between Leviticus 7:14 and New Testament teachings on giving? Text of the Day “He must present one of each kind of offering as a contribution to the LORD; it will belong to the priest who sprinkles the blood of the peace offerings.” (Leviticus 7:14) Key Observations from Leviticus 7:14 • The worshiper sets aside a specific portion “to the LORD.” • That portion is then given to the priest who mediates the sacrifice. • The act takes place within a thank-offering (“peace/fellowship” offering), so gratitude is in view. • The contribution is tangible, immediate, and deliberate—no leftovers, no vagueness. Parallel New Testament Principles • Setting aside a portion — “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion…” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Given first to God, then used for ministry — “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:14). • Thanksgiving at the center — “You will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion, and your giving will produce thanksgiving to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:11). • Cheerful, willing giving — “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Sharing with those who minister — “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with his teacher.” (Galatians 6:6). • A priestly parallel — Believers are now “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), yet the principle of supporting dedicated servants remains (1 Timothy 5:17-18). The Concept of “First” and “Portion” • Leviticus: one loaf from each offering = God’s portion first. • Romans 11:16: “If the first part of the dough is holy, so is the whole batch.” • Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • New Testament giving often assumes planned, proportional giving rather than impulse or leftovers. Giving that Honors God and Supports Servants • Old Covenant priests lived off the altar (Leviticus 7:14; Numbers 18:8-12). • New Covenant ministers are similarly supported (1 Corinthians 9:13-14). • Both covenants treat support for ministry as part of worship, not a detached “tip.” Overflow of Thanksgiving • Leviticus thanks-offering → gratitude expressed by sharing. • Philippians 4:18: gifts from believers are “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” • Hebrews 13:15-16 links praise and generous sharing as two sides of the same thanksgiving coin. Practical Takeaways • Give intentionally: decide the portion in advance, as Israel selected a loaf. • Give first: recognize God’s ownership before allocating the rest. • Give gratefully: let every contribution rise from thanksgiving, not obligation. • Give to support ministry: see your gift as part of God’s provision for His servants. • Expect multiplied praise: your generosity results in thanksgiving that spreads far beyond the initial act. The Old and New Testaments form a single, harmonious call: set apart the first and best to the Lord, thank Him with tangible gifts, and joyfully provide for those who serve His people. |
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