Numbers 28:18

On the first day there is to be a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work.

Study Bible

On the first day
This phrase refers to the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which follows immediately after Passover. In the Hebrew calendar, this is the 15th day of the month of Nisan. The "first day" signifies a new beginning, a fresh start, and a time of renewal. Historically, this day marks the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, symbolizing liberation and divine intervention. It is a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of commemorating His mighty acts.

there is to be a sacred assembly
The Hebrew term for "sacred assembly" is "miqra qodesh," which denotes a holy convocation or gathering. This assembly is not merely a social gathering but a divinely ordained meeting with a spiritual purpose. It underscores the communal aspect of worship and the importance of coming together as a people to honor God. The sacred assembly is a time for reflection, worship, and recommitment to God's covenant, emphasizing the holiness and set-apart nature of the day.

you are not to do any regular work
This command highlights the sanctity of the day by prohibiting ordinary labor. The Hebrew word for "regular work" is "meleket avodah," which refers to customary or servile work. By refraining from work, the Israelites were to focus entirely on worship and remembrance of God's deliverance. This cessation of labor serves as a physical manifestation of trust in God's provision and a reminder that life is not solely about productivity but about relationship with the Creator. It calls believers to prioritize spiritual rest and renewal, echoing the principle of Sabbath rest found throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The primary audience of the instructions in Numbers 28, the Israelites were God's chosen people, set apart to follow His commandments and observe His appointed festivals.

2. Moses
As the leader of the Israelites, Moses was responsible for conveying God's laws and instructions to the people, including the regulations for sacred assemblies and offerings.

3. Sacred Assembly
This refers to a holy gathering of the Israelites, a time set apart for worship and reflection, free from regular work, as commanded by God.

4. Feast of Unleavened Bread
The context of Numbers 28:18 is the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a significant event in the Jewish calendar that commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their deliverance by God.

5. Promised Land
The ultimate destination for the Israelites, the Promised Land represents the fulfillment of God's promises and the place where they would fully observe His laws and festivals.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Rest and Worship
God commands His people to set aside regular work to focus on worship and reflection. This principle encourages believers to prioritize spiritual rest and renewal in their lives.

Observance of Sacred Times
The sacred assembly highlights the importance of observing times set apart for God. Believers today can apply this by dedicating time for worship, prayer, and community with other believers.

Remembrance of Deliverance
The Feast of Unleavened Bread serves as a reminder of God's deliverance. Christians can reflect on their own deliverance from sin through Christ and celebrate this freedom regularly.

Community and Fellowship
Sacred assemblies foster a sense of community and shared faith. Believers are encouraged to gather with others to strengthen their faith and support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "sacred assembly" in Numbers 28:18 apply to modern Christian practices of worship and rest?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of rest from regular work into our weekly routines to honor God?

3. How does the observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ as our Passover Lamb?

4. What are some practical ways we can remember and celebrate our deliverance from sin in our daily lives?

5. How can participating in community worship and fellowship strengthen our personal faith and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
This chapter provides the original instructions for the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, establishing the historical and spiritual significance of these observances.

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines the appointed feasts of the Lord, including the Feast of Unleavened Bread, emphasizing the importance of sacred assemblies and rest from work.

Hebrews 4
This New Testament passage discusses the concept of rest, drawing a parallel between the Sabbath rest and the spiritual rest found in Christ, which can be related to the rest commanded during sacred assemblies.