How does Numbers 15:17 connect with New Testament teachings on offerings? Scripture Focus “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When you enter the land to which I am bringing you and you eat the food of the land, you shall present an offering to the LORD. From the first of your dough you are to present an offering to the LORD; you are to present an offering from the first of your dough throughout your generations.’” Old-Testament Picture of Devotion • The command comes the moment Israel anticipates settling in the land—daily bread will always belong to God first. • “First of your dough” underscores priority: the best portion is reserved for the Lord, acknowledging Him as Provider. • The instruction is “throughout your generations,” establishing a perpetual rhythm of gratitude and dependence. Fulfillment and Expansion in Christ • Christ as the ultimate Firstfruits—“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). – Just as Israel’s first dough signaled that the whole harvest was God’s, Jesus’ resurrection guarantees the full harvest of redeemed lives. • He is also the grain offering embodied—sinless, pleasing to God (Hebrews 10:5-10). • By giving Himself, He satisfies the intent behind every Old-Testament offering (Ephesians 5:2). New-Testament Principles for Believers’ Offerings • Living sacrifices: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1). • Regular, proportionate giving: “On the first day of every week, each of you is to set aside a portion...” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Cheerful generosity: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Spiritual sacrifices of praise and good works: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… And do not neglect to do good and to share with others” (Hebrews 13:15-16). Connecting Threads • Priority—Old and New Testament worship begin with giving God the first and best. • Gratitude—both texts assume that offerings flow from thankful recognition of God’s provision. • Continuity—material gifts (Numbers) mature into whole-life devotion (Romans 12:1), yet tangible generosity remains (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Assurance—the first portion consecrates the rest; Christ the Firstfruits secures our future resurrection and ongoing sanctification. Takeaways for Today • Set aside the “first of your dough”—time, finances, abilities—before spending anywhere else. • Let every act of giving echo Jesus’ self-offering, confident that God multiplies what is surrendered. • View generosity as worship: a visible testimony that the Lord still owns the harvest and sustains His people. |
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