Numbers 18:27

Your offering will be reckoned to you as grain from the threshing floor or juice from the winepress.

Study Bible

Your offering will be reckoned to you
This phrase emphasizes the concept of offerings being accounted or credited to the giver. In the context of Numbers 18, God is instructing the Levites on how their portion of the offerings from the Israelites is to be considered. The Levites, who did not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes, were supported through the tithes and offerings of the people. This reflects the principle of stewardship and the idea that God sees and values the contributions of His people. It also connects to the New Testament teaching in Philippians 4:17, where Paul speaks of the fruit that increases to the account of the giver.

as grain from the threshing floor
The threshing floor was a place where harvested grain was separated from the chaff. This imagery is significant in the agricultural society of ancient Israel, where grain was a staple food and a symbol of sustenance and provision. The offering being likened to grain suggests that it is a necessary and valuable contribution, essential for the sustenance of the Levites. This also foreshadows the spiritual harvest mentioned in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 9:37-38, where Jesus speaks of the plentiful harvest and the need for laborers.

or juice from the winepress
The winepress was used to extract juice from grapes, which was then fermented into wine, a common beverage in biblical times. Wine is often associated with joy and celebration in Scripture, as seen in Psalm 104:15 and John 2:1-11, where Jesus performs His first miracle at the wedding in Cana. The comparison of the offering to juice from the winepress suggests that the contributions of the Israelites were not only necessary but also a source of joy and blessing. This imagery can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the true vine (John 15:1) and whose blood, symbolized by wine, is poured out for the salvation of many (Matthew 26:27-28).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levites
A tribe 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. The Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to give a tenth of their produce to support the Levites and the work of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, where the Levites performed their duties.

4. Threshing Floor
A place where grain was separated from the chaff, symbolizing the process of offering the best to God.

5. Winepress
A place where grapes were crushed to produce juice, representing the fruit of the land and the labor of the people.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Firstfruits
Just as the Israelites were to give the first and best of their produce, Christians are called to prioritize God in their giving, reflecting trust and gratitude.

Supporting God’s Work
The Levites were sustained by the tithes of the people, highlighting the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to ministry and service.

Symbolism of the Offering
The comparison to grain and juice signifies the value and effort behind the offerings, reminding believers that their contributions to God’s work are significant and valued.

Holiness of the Tithe
The tithe is not just a financial transaction but a holy act of worship, acknowledging God’s provision and sovereignty.

Joyful Giving
The attitude in giving is crucial; offerings should be given willingly and joyfully, reflecting a heart aligned with God’s purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the tithe in Numbers 18:27 relate to the idea of giving in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of firstfruits in our modern context, beyond financial giving?

3. How does supporting those in ministry today reflect the system established for the Levites in the Old Testament?

4. What are some practical ways to cultivate a joyful attitude in giving, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

5. How can understanding the symbolism of the threshing floor and winepress deepen our appreciation for the offerings we present to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30
This verse emphasizes the holiness of the tithe, which is set apart for the Lord, reinforcing the idea that offerings are sacred and belong to God.

Malachi 3:10
This passage challenges the Israelites to bring the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings for obedience, which parallels the principle of giving in Numbers 18:27.

2 Corinthians 9:7
Paul speaks about giving cheerfully, which connects to the heart attitude behind the offerings mentioned in Numbers 18:27.