Numbers 7:17

and a peace offering of two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab.

Study Bible

and a peace offering of two oxen
The peace offering, also known as a fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving and communion with God. Oxen were valuable animals, symbolizing strength and service, and their use in offerings indicated a significant act of worship and gratitude. The peace offering was shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer, symbolizing fellowship with God and the community.

five rams
Rams were often used in sacrificial offerings and symbolized leadership and authority. The number five can represent grace in biblical numerology, suggesting an abundance of God's favor. Rams were also used in the consecration of priests, indicating a connection to holiness and dedication to God.

five male goats
Goats were commonly used in sin offerings, representing the removal of sin and impurity. The inclusion of goats in the peace offering highlights the comprehensive nature of the sacrifice, addressing both fellowship and atonement. The number five again emphasizes grace and completeness in the offering.

and five male lambs a year old
Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered pure and without blemish, making them suitable for sacrifice. They are often seen as a type of Christ, the Lamb of God, who was sacrificed for the sins of the world. The repetition of the number five underscores the theme of grace and divine favor.

This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab.
Nahshon, a leader of the tribe of Judah, played a significant role in the Israelite community. His offering represents the leadership and responsibility of Judah, the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. Nahshon's lineage is significant in the genealogy of Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises through the tribe of Judah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the offerings from the leaders of the tribes.

2. Israelite Leaders
The heads of the tribes who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tabernacle
The sacred tent where the Israelites worshiped God and where the offerings were brought.

4. Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

5. Tribe of Judah
The tribe whose leader, Nahshon son of Amminadab, brought the offerings on the first day.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Peace Offering
The peace offering represents reconciliation and fellowship with God. It is a reminder of the peace we have through Christ, who is our ultimate peace offering.

Generosity in Worship
The leaders of Israel gave generously and willingly. Our worship should also be characterized by generosity, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and devotion.

Unity in Worship
Each tribe participated in the offerings, symbolizing unity among God's people. In the church today, unity in worship and purpose is essential for a healthy community.

Thanksgiving and Praise
The peace offering was a form of thanksgiving. We are called to live lives marked by gratitude, continually offering praise to God for His goodness and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a peace offering in Numbers 7:17 relate to the peace we have through Jesus Christ?

2. In what ways can we practice generosity in our worship today, similar to the leaders of Israel?

3. How does the unity of the tribes in bringing offerings to the tabernacle inspire us to seek unity in our church communities?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced peace and reconciliation in your life. How can this experience enhance your worship and thanksgiving to God?

5. How can Romans 12:1's call to be a living sacrifice influence your daily walk with God and your interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, emphasizing their role in expressing gratitude and maintaining fellowship with God.

Hebrews 13:15
Encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise, connecting the Old Testament peace offerings to New Testament worship.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the dedication and offerings in the Old Testament.