Numbers 7:12
On the first day Nahshon son of Amminadab from the tribe of Judah drew near with his offering.
On the first day
This phrase marks the beginning of a significant event in the Israelite community. The "first day" signifies a new beginning, a fresh start in the dedication of the altar. In the Hebrew calendar, the first day often holds ceremonial importance, symbolizing order and divine timing. It reflects God's structured plan for His people, emphasizing the importance of starting endeavors with divine guidance and blessing.

Nahshon son of Amminadab
Nahshon is a notable figure in the lineage of Judah, mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:4). His name means "enchanter" or "oracle," suggesting a person of influence and leadership. As the son of Amminadab, Nahshon represents a continuation of a faithful lineage. His role here underscores the importance of godly heritage and leadership in fulfilling God's purposes.

from the tribe of Judah
The tribe of Judah holds a place of prominence among the tribes of Israel. Judah is the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah coming from the line of Judah (Genesis 49:10). This highlights the tribe's leadership role and its prophetic significance in God's redemptive plan.

drew near
The act of drawing near is a significant expression of worship and obedience. In Hebrew, the root word "qarab" implies approaching with reverence and intention. This action reflects a heart posture of humility and readiness to serve God. It is a reminder of the believer's call to draw near to God with sincerity and devotion.

with his offering
Offerings in the Old Testament were acts of worship and dedication to God. Nahshon's offering represents not only personal devotion but also the collective commitment of the tribe of Judah. The Hebrew word for offering, "korban," signifies something brought near to God, symbolizing the desire to honor and please Him. This act of giving is a model for believers to offer their best to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Nahshon
He is the son of Amminadab and a leader of the tribe of Judah. Nahshon is significant as he is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament, highlighting his importance in the lineage of David and ultimately Christ.

2. Amminadab
The father of Nahshon, Amminadab is part of the genealogy of the tribe of Judah, which is a prominent tribe in Israel's history.

3. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, Judah is a leading tribe known for its strength and leadership. It is the tribe from which King David and Jesus Christ descended.

4. Offering
The context of this verse is the dedication of the altar, where leaders from each tribe brought offerings. Nahshon's offering is the first, setting a precedent for the others.

5. Dedication of the Altar
This event marks the consecration of the altar in the Tabernacle, a significant moment in Israel's worship and relationship with God.
Teaching Points
Leadership and Legacy
Nahshon's role as the first to bring an offering demonstrates leadership and sets an example for others. In our lives, we are called to lead by example, especially in our faith and dedication to God.

The Importance of Firsts
Being the first to act in faith can inspire others. Just as Nahshon was the first to present his offering, we can be the first to step out in faith in our communities.

Generational Faithfulness
Nahshon's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus reminds us of the importance of faithfulness across generations. Our actions today can have lasting impacts on future generations.

Worship and Dedication
The dedication of the altar signifies the importance of setting apart time and resources for God. We are encouraged to dedicate our lives and possessions to God's service.
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from Nahshon's willingness to be the first to present his offering, and how can we apply this in our own acts of faith and service?

2. How does Nahshon's role in the genealogy of Jesus encourage us about God's faithfulness to His promises?

3. In what ways can we lead by example in our communities, similar to Nahshon's leadership among the tribes of Israel?

4. How does the dedication of the altar in Numbers 7:12 relate to our personal dedication to God in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on the significance of the tribe of Judah in biblical history. How does understanding this context enrich our understanding of Jesus' lineage and mission?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 6:23
This verse provides background on Nahshon, mentioning him as the brother-in-law of Aaron, Moses' brother, which highlights his prominent family connections.

Matthew 1:4
Nahshon is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, showing the fulfillment of God's promises through the lineage of Judah.

1 Chronicles 2:10
This verse reiterates Nahshon's place in the genealogy of Judah, emphasizing his role in the history of Israel.
The Free-Will Offering of the PrincesE.S. Prout Numbers 7:1-88
The Princes and Their Princely OfferingW. Binnie Numbers 7:1-89
Communion with GodNumbers 7:10-89
Communion with GodNumbers 7:10-89
Indications of the IncarnationHenry, MatthewNumbers 7:10-89
Rich Givers and Rich GiftsHenry, MatthewNumbers 7:10-89
Such as have Greatest Blessings and GiftsW. Attersoll.Numbers 7:10-89
The Condescension of God, and the Privileges of ManW. Jones.Numbers 7:10-89
The Ear of the HeartNumbers 7:10-89
The Princes' Offerings for the Dedication of the AltarW. Jones.Numbers 7:10-89
The Speech of the Divine SpiritProfessor Gess.Numbers 7:10-89
The Support of Religious InstitutionsD. Lloyd.Numbers 7:10-89
People
Aaron, Abidan, Ahiezer, Ahira, Ammihud, Amminadab, Ammishaddai, Asher, Benjamin, Dan, Deuel, Eliab, Eliasaph, Elishama, Elizur, Enan, Gad, Gamaliel, Gershon, Gershonites, Gideoni, Helon, Issachar, Ithamar, Kohath, Levites, Manasseh, Merari, Merarites, Moses, Nahshon, Naphtali, Nethaneel, Ocran, Pagiel, Pedahzur, Reuben, Reuel, Shedeur, Shelumiel, Simeon, Zebulun, Zuar, Zurishaddai
Places
Sinai
Topics
Amminadab, Ammin'adab, Bringing, Judah, Nahshon, Oblation, Offered, Offering, Presented, Tribe
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Numbers 7:10-17

     7266   tribes of Israel

Library
Separation and Service.
Numbers vi, vii. INTRODUCTORY. For many years these chapters had no special interest to me; but I have never ceased to be thankful that I was early led to read the Word of GOD in regular course: it was through this habit that these chapters first became specially precious to me. I was travelling on a missionary tour in the province of CHEH-KIANG, and had to pass the night in a very wicked town. All the inns were dreadful places; and the people seemed to have their consciences seared, and their hearts
James Hudson Taylor—Separation and Service

Our Lord's Prayer for his People's Sanctification
In this wonderful prayer, our Lord, as our great High Priest, appears to enter upon that perpetual office of intercession which he is now exercising at the right hand of the Father. Our Lord ever seemed, in the eagerness of his love, to be anticipating his work. Before he was set apart for his life-work, by the descent of the Holy Ghost upon him, he must needs be about his Father's business; before he finally suffered at the hands of cruel men, he had a baptism to be baptized with, and he was straitened
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 32: 1886

Prophecy.
PROPHECY. Isaiah iii. 13; liii. "Behold, my servant shall deal prudently; he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonished at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men: so shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider. Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity

Numbers
Like the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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