Deuteronomy 14:23

And you are to eat a tenth of your grain, new wine, and oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks, in the presence of the LORD your God at the place He will choose as a dwelling for His Name, so that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always.

Study Bible

And you are to eat a tenth of your grain, new wine, and oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks
This phrase refers to the tithe, a tenth of the produce and livestock, which the Israelites were commanded to set aside. The tithe was an acknowledgment of God's provision and ownership over all things. Grain, wine, and oil were staples of the ancient Near Eastern diet, symbolizing sustenance and blessing. The firstborn of herds and flocks were considered especially significant, representing the best and the first of what God had provided. This practice reinforced the principle of giving God the first and best of one's resources, a theme echoed in Proverbs 3:9-10.

in the presence of the LORD your God
This indicates that the act of consuming the tithe was not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, performed in the presence of God. It was a communal and sacred event, emphasizing the relationship between the Israelites and their God. The presence of the LORD signifies His holiness and the importance of worship being directed towards Him. This concept is further developed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to do all things as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23).

at the place He will choose as a dwelling for His Name
This phrase refers to the centralization of worship, which would later be established in Jerusalem with the building of the Temple. The "place He will choose" underscores God's sovereignty in determining where He would be worshiped. This central place of worship was a unifying factor for the nation of Israel and a precursor to the idea of the Church as the dwelling place of God (Ephesians 2:19-22). The concept of God's name dwelling in a specific place highlights His desire to be intimately involved with His people.

so that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always
The purpose of the tithe and the act of worship was to instill a reverent fear of the LORD. This fear is not about being afraid but about having a deep respect and awe for God's holiness and authority. It is a foundational principle for wisdom and obedience (Proverbs 9:10). The continual practice of tithing and worship was meant to cultivate a lifestyle of dependence on and reverence for God, ensuring that the Israelites remained faithful to Him. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to live in reverence and awe of God (Hebrews 12:28-29).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the tithe and prescribes the place of worship.

4. The Place He Will Choose
Refers to the future central place of worship, which would later be Jerusalem.

5. Tithing
The act of giving a tenth of one's produce and livestock as an offering to God.

Teaching Points

The Purpose of Tithing
Tithing is an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

Learning to Fear the LORD
The practice of tithing and communal worship cultivates a reverent fear of God, reminding believers of His holiness and authority.

The Centrality of Worship
Worship is not just a personal act but a communal one, centered around God's chosen place and presence.

God's Provision and Blessing
Trusting God with our resources leads to spiritual growth and blessings, as we rely on His provision.

The Heart of Worship
True worship involves the heart and attitude, not just the act of giving. It is about honoring God with our best.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of tithing in Deuteronomy 14:23 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of tithing today, considering the New Testament teachings?

3. How does gathering in a specific place for worship, as instructed in Deuteronomy 14:23, relate to the concept of church fellowship in Hebrews 10:25?

4. What does it mean to "learn to fear the LORD" in the context of our modern-day faith journey?

5. How can we ensure that our acts of worship, including giving, are done with the right heart and attitude?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30-32
Discusses the concept of tithing as holy to the LORD, emphasizing its sacred nature.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings for obedience.

Matthew 23:23
Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing but emphasizes justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

Hebrews 10:25
Highlights the importance of gathering together, which connects to the communal aspect of worship in Deuteronomy 14:23.