Deuteronomy 12:19

and be careful not to neglect the Levites as long as you live in your land.

Study Bible

and be careful not to neglect the Levites
The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties and service to God. They did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes (Numbers 18:20-24), as their inheritance was the Lord Himself. This command emphasizes the importance of supporting those who serve in spiritual roles. The Levites were responsible for the tabernacle and later the temple services, and they relied on the tithes and offerings of the people for their sustenance (Deuteronomy 14:27-29). This principle of supporting religious leaders is echoed in the New Testament, where Paul speaks of the right of those who preach the gospel to receive their living from the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

as long as you live in your land
This phrase underscores the permanence of the command. The Israelites were to continually support the Levites throughout their generations. The land was a gift from God, a fulfillment of His promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7), and living in it was contingent upon obedience to God's laws, including the care for the Levites. This reflects a broader biblical principle of stewardship and responsibility for the community of faith. The land itself was a type of the eternal rest and inheritance promised to believers (Hebrews 4:8-10), and the ongoing support of the Levites was a part of maintaining the covenant relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land.

2. Levites
Members of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service in the tabernacle and later the temple. They did not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving instructions on how to live in the Promised Land.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to Abraham and his descendants, where the Israelites are to settle.

5. God's Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, including laws and commandments for living in the land.

Teaching Points

Support for Spiritual Leaders
Just as the Israelites were commanded to support the Levites, Christians today are called to support their pastors and church leaders, ensuring they can focus on their spiritual duties.

Community Responsibility
The command to not neglect the Levites underscores the importance of community responsibility and care for those who serve in ministry roles.

Faithful Stewardship
This verse reminds believers of the importance of faithful stewardship of resources, ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to God's service are provided for.

Continuity of Care
The phrase "as long as you live in your land" suggests a continuous, lifelong commitment to supporting those in ministry, not just a one-time or occasional effort.

Reflecting God's Provision
By supporting the Levites, the Israelites reflected God's provision and care, a principle that applies to how believers today should reflect God's love and provision through their support of church ministries.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to not neglect the Levite apply to the way we support our church leaders today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that those who serve in ministry are adequately supported and cared for in our communities?

3. How does the principle of community responsibility in Deuteronomy 12:19 relate to the early church's practices in Acts 6:1-4?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faithful stewardship of our resources in supporting church ministries?

5. How can reflecting on God's provision for the Levites inspire us to trust in His provision for our own needs and the needs of our church community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 18:20-24
Discusses the role and provision for the Levites, emphasizing their dependence on the offerings of the people since they have no land inheritance.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14
Paul references the support of those who minister in spiritual matters, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament provision for the Levites.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing tithes into the storehouse, which supports the work of the temple and those who serve there, akin to supporting the Levites.

Hebrews 7:5
Mentions the Levites receiving tithes, highlighting their role and the importance of supporting those in spiritual service.

Acts 6:1-4
The early church's organization to ensure the needs of those serving in ministry are met, reflecting the principle of supporting spiritual leaders.