Numbers 7:3

They brought as their offering before the LORD six covered carts and twelve oxen--an ox from each leader and a cart from every two leaders--and presented them before the tabernacle.

Study Bible

They brought as their offering before the LORD
This phrase highlights the act of bringing offerings to God, a practice deeply rooted in the Israelite tradition. Offerings were a way to express devotion, gratitude, and obedience to God. The act of bringing offerings "before the LORD" signifies presenting them in a sacred manner, acknowledging God's holiness and sovereignty. This practice is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Leviticus, where various offerings are detailed. It underscores the importance of giving to God as an act of worship and reverence.

six covered carts and twelve oxen
The specific mention of "six covered carts and twelve oxen" indicates a well-organized and substantial offering. The use of carts suggests the transportation of heavy or numerous items, possibly related to the tabernacle's service. The number twelve, often symbolic of completeness or the twelve tribes of Israel, signifies unity and collective responsibility among the tribes. The oxen, strong and valuable animals, represent strength and service, often used in agricultural contexts. This offering reflects the community's commitment to supporting the tabernacle's functions.

an ox from each leader and a cart from every two leaders
This distribution of offerings shows a structured and equitable contribution from the leaders of the tribes. Each leader's participation with an ox signifies personal involvement and responsibility. The sharing of carts between two leaders may indicate cooperation and partnership among the tribes. This collective effort emphasizes the unity and shared purpose in serving God and maintaining the tabernacle, the central place of worship and God's dwelling among His people.

and presented them before the tabernacle
Presenting the offerings "before the tabernacle" signifies bringing them to the place where God's presence dwelt among the Israelites. The tabernacle was the focal point of Israelite worship and the location where sacrifices and offerings were made. This act of presentation underscores the sacredness of the tabernacle and the importance of approaching God with reverence and proper preparation. It also reflects the Israelites' acknowledgment of God's presence and their dependence on Him for guidance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Leaders of Israel
These were the heads of the tribes of Israel who brought offerings to the LORD. They played a significant role in representing their tribes and ensuring that the needs of the tabernacle were met.

2. The Tabernacle
This was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was central to their worship and community life.

3. The Offerings
The leaders brought six covered carts and twelve oxen as offerings. These were practical gifts intended to assist in the transportation of the tabernacle and its furnishings.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Community Support
The leaders' offerings demonstrate the necessity of communal involvement in supporting the work of God. Each tribe contributed, showing unity and shared responsibility.

Generosity in Giving
The leaders gave willingly and generously, setting an example for us to follow in our own giving to the church and God's work.

Practicality in Offerings
The offerings were not just symbolic but practical, meeting the specific needs of the tabernacle. This teaches us to consider how our contributions can effectively support God's work.

Leadership and Responsibility
The leaders took initiative in providing for the tabernacle, reminding us of the responsibility leaders have in guiding and supporting the spiritual community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the leaders in Numbers 7:3 challenge us in our own giving to the church or community?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our contributions to God's work are both generous and practical?

3. How does the concept of community support in Numbers 7:3 relate to the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ?

4. What responsibilities do leaders have in setting an example of generosity and support for God's work?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of willingness and cheerfulness in our giving, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters detail the instructions for building the tabernacle, highlighting its importance and the need for community support in its construction and maintenance.

1 Chronicles 29
This passage describes how the leaders of Israel contributed generously to the building of the temple, showing a parallel in the willingness to support God's dwelling place.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, which can be seen in the leaders' offerings in Numbers 7.