On the first day there is to be a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work. On the first dayThis phrase refers to the beginning of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which follows immediately after Passover. The first day is significant as it marks the start of a week-long observance. Biblically, the number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection, and the first day sets the tone for the entire feast. This day is a reminder of the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, as described in Exodus 12. there is to be a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work. Persons / Places / Events 1. IsraelitesThe 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 WorshipGod 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 12This 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.
People Ephah, Israelites, MosesPlaces Jericho, Mount SinaiTopics Assembly, Convocation, Field-work, Holy, Laborious, Manner, Meeting, Regular, Sacred, Servile, Sort, ThereinDictionary of Bible Themes Numbers 28:16-20Library Whether the Third Precept of the Decalogue, Concerning the Hallowing of the Sabbath, is Fittingly Expressed?Objection 1: It seems that the third precept of the decalogue, concerning the hallowing of the Sabbath, is unfittingly expressed. For this, understood spiritually, is a general precept: since Bede in commenting on Lk. 13:14, "The ruler of the synagogue being angry that He had healed on the Sabbath," says (Comment. iv): "The Law forbids, not to heal man on the Sabbath, but to do servile works," i.e. "to burden oneself with sin." Taken literally it is a ceremonial precept, for it is written (Ex. 31:13): … Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Questions About the Nature and Perpetuity of the Seventh-Day Sabbath. Jesus Defends Disciples who Pluck Grain on the Sabbath. Numbers Links Numbers 28:18 NIVNumbers 28:18 NLT Numbers 28:18 ESV Numbers 28:18 NASB Numbers 28:18 KJV Numbers 28:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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