Deuteronomy 26:14

I have not eaten any of the sacred portion while in mourning, or removed any of it while unclean, or offered any of it for the dead. I have obeyed the LORD my God; I have done everything You commanded me.

Study Bible

I have not eaten any of the sacred portion while in mourning
In ancient Israel, the sacred portion refers to the tithe or offering set apart for the Lord, often given to the Levites, the poor, or used in religious feasts. Eating it while in mourning would be inappropriate, as mourning was a time of ritual impurity and personal grief, not celebration or worship. This reflects the importance of approaching God’s commands with a heart of reverence and purity, as seen in Leviticus 10:19, where Aaron refrains from eating the sin offering due to his mourning.

or removed any of it while unclean
Being ceremonially unclean, as outlined in Leviticus, could result from various conditions, such as touching a dead body or having a skin disease. Handling sacred offerings while unclean would defile them, violating God’s holiness. This underscores the need for spiritual cleanliness and integrity in worship, paralleling the New Testament call for believers to be pure in heart (Matthew 5:8).

or offered any of it for the dead
Offering sacrifices to the dead was a pagan practice, forbidden in Israel (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). This phrase highlights the Israelites' commitment to worship God alone, avoiding syncretism with surrounding cultures. It also foreshadows the New Testament teaching against idolatry and the worship of anything other than God (1 Corinthians 10:14).

I have obeyed the LORD my God
This declaration of obedience reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings were contingent upon adherence to His commands (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience, themes echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus states, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15).

I have done everything You commanded me
This statement of comprehensive obedience is reminiscent of the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-5), calling for wholehearted devotion to God. It points to the ideal of living a life fully aligned with God’s will, a standard ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who perfectly obeyed the Father (John 8:29) and calls His followers to do likewise (Matthew 28:20).

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The recipients of the law, preparing to enter the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Sacred Portion
Refers to the tithe or offering set apart for God, which the Israelites were to handle with reverence.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands obedience and worship.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Commands
The sacred portion is to be treated with utmost respect, reflecting our reverence for God's instructions.

Purity and Holiness
Handling offerings requires a state of purity, symbolizing the holiness God desires in our lives.

Obedience to God
The declaration of obedience in this verse serves as a model for our commitment to follow God's commands fully.

Integrity in Worship
Offering to the dead or using sacred portions improperly reflects a lack of integrity, which God calls us to avoid.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
Managing what is set apart for God with faithfulness is a testament to our trust in His provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the "sacred portion" in Deuteronomy 26:14 relate to our modern understanding of tithes and offerings?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and giving remain pure and untainted by external influences or personal impurities?

3. How does the emphasis on obedience in this verse challenge us in our daily walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate integrity in our stewardship of resources God has entrusted to us?

5. How can the principles found in Deuteronomy 26:14 be applied to our understanding of New Testament teachings on giving and generosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27
Discusses the laws regarding tithes and offerings, emphasizing the sacredness of what is dedicated to God.

Numbers 18
Details the responsibilities of the Levites and the sacred offerings, highlighting the importance of purity and reverence.

Malachi 3
Addresses the issue of robbing God through withholding tithes and offerings, underscoring the need for faithful stewardship.

Matthew 23
Jesus speaks about the Pharisees' neglect of justice, mercy, and faithfulness while being meticulous about tithing, pointing to the heart behind the law.

2 Corinthians 9
Paul encourages cheerful and generous giving, reflecting the spirit of the law in Deuteronomy.