How does Numbers 7:73 connect to New Testament teachings on generosity? Setting the Scene Numbers 7 records the dedication offerings of the twelve tribal leaders for the newly anointed altar. Verse 73 summarizes the gift of Ahira of Naphtali: “and his offering was one silver dish weighing 130 shekels and one silver bowl weighing 70 shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;” (Numbers 7:73) Old-Covenant Example of Open-Handed Giving • Every leader gave the very same generous gift—no one held back or tried to look more frugal. • The gifts conformed to “the sanctuary shekel,” showing that generosity submits to God’s standard, not personal whim. • The offering was tangible, costly silver combined with daily food staples—both wealth and livelihood gladly placed at God’s disposal. Jesus Highlights the Same Heart • Luke 21:1-4—The widow’s two small coins echo the Numbers pattern: what mattered was wholehearted surrender, not the size compared to others. • Matthew 6:2-4—Secret giving “to your Father, who sees what is done in secret,” reflects tribal chiefs who gave for God’s altar, not personal acclaim. • Luke 6:38—“Give, and it will be given to you.” The tribe of Naphtali gave first, trusting God to keep Israel supplied in the wilderness. Paul’s New-Covenant Echoes • 2 Corinthians 8:3—“they gave according to their ability and even beyond it.” The Macedonians mirror Naphtali’s costly silver. • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8—“God loves a cheerful giver.” Tribal leaders gave with joy at the altar’s dedication. • Philippians 4:18—Paul calls the Philippians’ support “a fragrant offering,” the same phrase Moses used for grain offerings mixed with oil (Numbers 15:4-7). Shared Principles Across Testaments • Voluntary generosity—neither tribal leaders nor believers are coerced. • Proportional yet sacrificial—set weights in Numbers, “as he purposes in his heart” in 2 Corinthians 9:7. • Worship-centered giving—supporting the altar (Numbers 7) parallels supporting gospel ministry (Philippians 4:15-17). • God-honoring transparency—weights standardized; New Testament giving “honorable not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men” (2 Corinthians 8:21). • Blessing flows from obedience—Israel enjoyed God’s presence; believers abound “in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). Practical Takeaways for Today • Give deliberately: set an agreed-upon “shekel weight” in your budget. • Give corporately: unite with other believers so needs are fully met. • Give worshipfully: let every gift, large or small, rise like the grain offering as “a fragrant aroma” to God (Ephesians 5:2). • Give expectantly: the God who sustained Israel in the desert and supplied the Corinthians will “meet all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). |
    |