Numbers 18:26

"Speak to the Levites and tell them: 'When you receive from the Israelites the tithe that I have given you as your inheritance, you must present part of it as an offering to the LORD--a tithe of the tithe.

Study Bible

Speak to the Levites and tell them:
The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties in Israel. They did not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes but were given cities to live in and were supported by the tithes of the people. This command emphasizes the communication of God's instructions through Moses, highlighting the importance of the Levites' role in maintaining the spiritual life of Israel.

When you receive from the Israelites the tithe that I have given you as your inheritance:
The tithe, a tenth of the produce and livestock, was given by the Israelites to support the Levites. This system ensured that those who served in the temple and performed religious duties were provided for. The tithe was considered holy and belonged to God, reflecting the principle that all provision ultimately comes from Him.

You must present part of it as an offering to the LORD:
The Levites, though recipients of the tithe, were also required to give a portion back to God. This offering was a demonstration of their own dependence on God and acknowledgment of His provision. It served as a reminder that everyone, regardless of their role, is called to honor God with their resources.

A tithe of the tithe:
This phrase indicates that the Levites were to give a tenth of what they received from the Israelites. It underscores the principle of giving back to God from what He has provided, a practice that is echoed in the New Testament teachings on generosity and stewardship. This act of giving by the Levites can be seen as a type of Christ, who, though He was rich, became poor for our sake, giving Himself fully to God’s service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levites
A tribe in Israel set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle. They were not given a land inheritance like the other tribes but were supported through the tithes of the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as the children of Israel, who were commanded to give a tithe of their produce and livestock to support the Levites.

3. Tithe
A tenth part of something, paid as a contribution to a religious organization or compulsory tax to the government. In this context, it refers to the portion given by the Israelites to the Levites.

4. Inheritance
The portion or allotment given by God to the Levites, which was the tithe from the other tribes, as they did not receive a land inheritance.

5. The LORD’s Offering
The portion of the tithe that the Levites were required to offer back to God, signifying their acknowledgment of His provision and sovereignty.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Giving Back to God
The Levites, though recipients of the tithe, were also required to give a portion back to God. This teaches us that no matter our role or position, we are all called to give back to God from what we receive.

Acknowledgment of God’s Provision
By offering a tenth of the tithe, the Levites acknowledged that their sustenance and inheritance were from God. This reminds us to recognize and honor God as the source of all our blessings.

The Cycle of Blessing and Responsibility
The system of tithing established a cycle where everyone contributed and benefited. It highlights the importance of community support and shared responsibility in the body of Christ.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
The Levites' obligation to tithe from their received tithes underscores the importance of being faithful stewards of what God entrusts to us, regardless of the amount.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for the Levites to tithe from their received tithes challenge our understanding of stewardship and giving today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of acknowledging God’s provision in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of tithing in Numbers 18:26 relate to the New Testament teachings on giving and generosity?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and contribute to our faith community, similar to the system of tithing among the Israelites?

5. How can we ensure that our giving is done with the right heart and attitude, reflecting the principles seen in Numbers 18:26?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30-32
Discusses the concept of tithing and its importance as holy to the Lord, establishing the foundation for the practice seen in Numbers 18:26.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing the whole tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings for obedience, which echoes the principles of giving seen in Numbers 18:26.

Hebrews 7:5-9
Reflects on the practice of tithing in the context of the Levitical priesthood, providing a New Testament perspective on the Old Testament practice.