How does Numbers 7:70 connect with New Testament teachings on giving? The setting of Numbers 7:70 Numbers 7 records the twelve tribal chiefs presenting identical offerings for the dedication of the altar. Verse 70 names one element of that daily offering: “one male goat for a sin offering;”. The narrative is a literal historical record of Israel’s leaders bringing costly gifts in exact obedience to the LORD’s instructions. Key observations from the verse • The gift is specific: a male goat, without blemish (cf. Leviticus 4:23). • Its purpose is spiritual: atonement for sin, not personal prestige. • It is part of a larger, systematic pattern: every tribe, every day, the same offering (Numbers 7:10–88). • The giver is representative: the chief presents the gift on behalf of his entire tribe. Threads connecting to New-Testament giving 1. Giving flows from atonement already provided • In Numbers, the goat points to substitutionary sacrifice. • In the New Testament, Christ becomes the once-for-all sin offering (Hebrews 9:26). Believers now give because atonement is complete (2 Corinthians 8:9). 2. Obedient, not showy • The chiefs give exactly what God prescribes. • Jesus teaches, “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3–4). Precise obedience matters more than public applause. 3. Equal commitment, varied ability • Each tribe offers identical items, illustrating shared responsibility regardless of size. • Paul echoes this principle: “If the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have” (2 Corinthians 8:12). 4. Systematic and orderly generosity • The offerings span twelve days in an orderly sequence. • The church is told, “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of your income” (1 Corinthians 16:2). 5. Corporate impact • A leader’s gift benefits the whole tribe through atonement and blessing. • The Philippian church’s gift meets Paul’s needs and brings fruit that “abounds to your account” (Philippians 4:17). Collective generosity advances kingdom work. Practical takeaways today • Let giving spring from gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice, not guilt or pressure. • Follow Scriptural patterns: intentional, proportionate, and consistent. • Give quietly, aiming for God’s approval rather than human recognition. • Remember that personal faithfulness blesses the wider body of Christ. Summary Numbers 7:70 shows Israel’s leaders presenting a sin-offering goat in precise obedience, acknowledging their need for forgiveness. The New Testament builds on that foundation: Christ fulfills the sin offering, and believers respond with orderly, humble, corporate generosity. Old and New together portray giving as worship grounded in redemption and expressed through obedient, thoughtful stewardship. |
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