Numbers 31:50

So we have brought to the LORD an offering of the gold articles each man acquired--armlets, bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces--to make atonement for ourselves before the LORD."

Study Bible

So we have brought to the LORD an offering of the gold articles each man acquired—
In the context of Numbers 31, the Israelites had just returned from a victorious battle against the Midianites. The spoils of war included various gold articles. Offering these to the LORD signifies gratitude and recognition of God's role in their victory. This act of giving back to God from what they acquired is reminiscent of the principle of firstfruits, where the first and best of what one receives is dedicated to God (Proverbs 3:9-10). It also reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship, acknowledging that all possessions ultimately belong to God (Psalm 24:1).

armlets, bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces—
These items were common forms of personal adornment in the ancient Near East, often signifying wealth and status. Archaeological findings have uncovered similar items in ancient burial sites, indicating their value and cultural significance. In the biblical narrative, such items are frequently mentioned as part of the spoils of war (Genesis 24:22, Exodus 32:2-3). The specific mention of these items highlights the tangible nature of the offering and the personal sacrifice involved, as these were likely cherished possessions.

to make atonement for ourselves before the LORD.”
Atonement in the Old Testament involves reconciliation with God, often through a sacrificial offering. The need for atonement here suggests a recognition of sin or impurity associated with the battle, possibly due to contact with death or the taking of life (Numbers 31:19-24). This act of atonement underscores the holiness of God and the need for purification before Him. It foreshadows the ultimate atonement made by Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin (Hebrews 9:14). The Israelites' offering serves as a type, pointing to the greater atonement that would be accomplished through Christ's death and resurrection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is overseeing the events and receiving the offerings from the soldiers.

2. Israelite Soldiers
The men who went to battle against the Midianites and are now bringing offerings to the LORD.

3. Midianites
The people defeated by the Israelites in battle, whose possessions are now being offered to God.

4. The LORD
The God of Israel, to whom the offerings are being made as an act of atonement.

5. Atonement Offering
The act of bringing gifts to God to make amends for sin or impurity, acknowledging His holiness and their need for reconciliation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Atonement
Atonement is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing the need for reconciliation with God. The soldiers' offerings remind us of our need to seek forgiveness and restoration with God through Christ.

Generosity in Worship
The soldiers willingly brought valuable items as offerings. This teaches us the importance of giving generously and sacrificially in our worship and service to God.

Acknowledging God's Sovereignty
By bringing offerings, the soldiers acknowledged God's role in their victory. We should recognize God's hand in our successes and respond with gratitude and humility.

The Role of Material Possessions
The soldiers' offerings were material possessions, yet they were used for spiritual purposes. This challenges us to consider how we can use our resources to honor God and further His kingdom.

Community and Accountability
The collective act of bringing offerings highlights the importance of community in spiritual practices. We are encouraged to support and hold each other accountable in our faith journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of bringing offerings to the LORD in Numbers 31:50 teach us about the nature of atonement and reconciliation with God?

2. How can we apply the principle of generosity demonstrated by the Israelite soldiers in our own lives today?

3. In what ways can we acknowledge God's sovereignty in our daily victories and successes?

4. How can we use our material possessions to serve God and others, as seen in the soldiers' offerings?

5. What role does community play in our spiritual practices, and how can we foster a sense of accountability and support within our faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:11-16
This passage discusses the concept of atonement money, which is similar to the offerings brought by the soldiers in Numbers 31:50. It highlights the importance of making atonement to avoid a plague among the people.

Leviticus 5:15-16
These verses describe the guilt offering, which is brought to make restitution for unintentional sins, paralleling the soldiers' desire to make atonement.

1 Chronicles 29:6-9
This passage describes the leaders of Israel bringing freewill offerings for the building of the temple, showing a similar spirit of generosity and dedication to God.