What responsibilities do priests have regarding offerings in Numbers 18:9?

Priestly Responsibilities Drawn from Numbers 18:9

– Receive the part of each offering that is “kept from the fire,” the choice portion specifically reserved by the LORD.

– Accept all of the following as “most holy” gifts: every grain offering, every sin offering, and every guilt offering.

– Recognize these gifts as the exclusive property of Aaron and his sons; no other Israelite may claim them (cf. Numbers 18:8).

– Handle and consume them in the holy place, maintaining ceremonial purity (Leviticus 6:16–18; 10:12–13).

– Ensure that only males of the priestly line partake, underscoring the sacred restriction (Numbers 18:10).

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Practical Stewardship Required of Priests

– Guard the offerings from misuse, theft, or profanation.

– Divide and distribute the portions fairly among qualified priests.

– Uphold personal holiness so the consumption of these gifts remains acceptable (Leviticus 7:6–7).

– Model gratitude and reverence; the offerings are God’s provision for priestly livelihood (Deuteronomy 18:1–2).

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Supporting Passages

“Behold, I have given you full responsibility for the offerings brought to Me—all the holy gifts of the Israelites; I give them to you and your sons as your portion and perpetual share.” (Numbers 18:8)

“You are to eat it as a most holy offering. Every male may eat it; it shall be holy to you.” (Numbers 18:10)

“Every male among the priests may eat of it; it is most holy.” (Leviticus 7:6)

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Timeless Principles for Believers

– God tangibly provides for those who serve Him, expecting faithful stewardship in return.

– Holiness in handling God’s gifts remains non-negotiable (1 Peter 2:9).

– All believers, as a “royal priesthood,” are called to treat what belongs to the Lord with equal reverence (Hebrews 13:15–16).