How does Numbers 7:39 connect with New Testament teachings on giving? The Old Testament Snapshot Numbers 7:39: “one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;” • Day 5 of the tabernacle dedication. • Shalumiel brings animals of differing value—each the best of its kind. • A burnt offering is wholly consumed on the altar—nothing held back. Key Giving Principles Already in View • Whole-hearted surrender: the entire animal is burned, mirroring complete devotion. • Costly generosity: a bull was expensive; giving touched real resources. • Representative unity: every tribal leader brought the same gift, displaying equal commitment, not competition. Echoes in New Testament Teaching • Cheerful, willing giving – “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give… For God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) – Like Shalumiel, no coercion—just joyous response. • Sacrificial fragrance – “I have received… the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” (Philippians 4:18) – Paul borrows burnt-offering language; the early church’s gifts rise to God as worship. • Whole-life surrender – “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices.” (Romans 12:1) – The NT broadens Numbers 7:39: not only possessions but ourselves. • Shared responsibility, equal devotion – “The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief.” (Acts 11:29) – All tribes gave identically; all believers give proportionately. • Overflowing blessing – “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38) – The generosity of Numbers 7 foreshadows Jesus’ promise. Christ—the Ultimate Burnt Offering • 2 Corinthians 8:9: He “became poor” so we might be rich; His self-giving sets the pattern. • Because He was wholly consumed for us, our giving becomes joyful gratitude, not grim duty. Practical Takeaways for Today • Give the “first and best,” not the leftovers. • Let every gift be worship—attach prayerful gratitude to each check or online payment. • Seek unity in generosity: partner with others, rejoice when the body gives together. • Remember the costliness of grace; sacrificial giving keeps the cross in view. • Expect God’s delight and provision—He still “smells” the pleasing aroma of surrendered hearts. |
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