Numbers 28:9

On the Sabbath day, present two unblemished year-old male lambs, accompanied by a grain offering of two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, as well as a drink offering.

Study Bible

On the Sabbath day
The Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a day of rest and worship, rooted in the creation narrative where God rested on the seventh day. It is a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, emphasizing rest and holiness (Exodus 31:16-17). The Sabbath offerings highlight the importance of dedicating this day to the Lord, setting it apart from the regular daily offerings.

present two unblemished year-old male lambs
The requirement for the lambs to be unblemished signifies purity and perfection, reflecting the holiness required in offerings to God. The age of one year indicates maturity and prime condition. This foreshadows Christ, the Lamb of God, who is without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:19). The number two may symbolize witness and testimony, reinforcing the importance of the Sabbath.

accompanied by a grain offering of two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil
The grain offering, or "minchah," represents the fruits of human labor and dedication to God. Fine flour signifies purity and quality, while oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit. The specific measure, two-tenths of an ephah, indicates a substantial offering, reflecting generosity and devotion. This offering complements the animal sacrifice, showing a holistic approach to worship involving both animal and agricultural elements.

as well as a drink offering
The drink offering, typically wine, is poured out as a libation, symbolizing the pouring out of one's life in service to God. It complements the burnt and grain offerings, completing the sacrificial system. This act of pouring out can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of Christ's blood being poured out for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:28). The drink offering signifies joy and fellowship with God, as wine is often associated with celebration and covenantal meals.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including the sacrificial system outlined in Numbers.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given these laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, set apart by God as a day of rest and worship, during which these specific offerings were to be made.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and where these offerings were presented.

5. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the rituals as prescribed by the law.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship
The specific instructions for Sabbath offerings highlight the importance of regular, intentional worship in the life of a believer.

Holiness and Purity
The requirement for unblemished lambs signifies the need for purity and holiness in our approach to God.

Consistency in Devotion
The regularity of the Sabbath offerings teaches us the value of consistent devotion and commitment to God.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The offerings symbolize the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, encouraging us to reflect on His atonement and our response to it.

Rest and Reflection
Observing the Sabbath as a day of rest allows for reflection on God's provision and grace, reminding us of our dependence on Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for unblemished lambs in Numbers 28:9 reflect God's standards for worship and sacrifice?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principle of Sabbath rest into our modern lives, considering the demands of contemporary society?

3. How do the Sabbath offerings in Numbers 28:9 point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation for the New Testament teachings on worship and devotion?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:8-11
This passage provides the commandment to keep the Sabbath day holy, establishing the foundation for the Sabbath offerings.

Leviticus 23:3
Reinforces the importance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and a holy convocation, connecting to the offerings made on this day.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the concept of Sabbath rest in the New Testament, drawing a spiritual parallel to the rest found in Christ.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, connecting the physical offerings of the Old Testament to spiritual worship in the New Testament.