Numbers 28:4

Offer one lamb in the morning and the other at twilight,

Study Bible

You are to offer
The phrase "You are to offer" indicates a commandment from God to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship. The Hebrew root for "offer" is "qarab," which means to bring near or present. This act of offering is not merely a ritual but a means of drawing near to God, symbolizing the Israelites' dedication and submission to His will. Historically, offerings were central to Israelite worship, serving as a tangible expression of faith and reverence.

one lamb
The specification of "one lamb" highlights the significance of the lamb as a sacrificial animal in the Hebrew tradition. The lamb, often seen as a symbol of innocence and purity, prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God." In the context of the Old Testament, the lamb was a common offering, representing atonement and reconciliation with God. The use of a lamb underscores the necessity of a pure and spotless sacrifice to maintain a right relationship with the Divine.

in the morning
The timing "in the morning" signifies the beginning of the day, a time of renewal and new beginnings. Offering a lamb in the morning can be seen as dedicating the day to God, seeking His guidance and blessing from the outset. In the ancient Near Eastern context, morning sacrifices were a common practice, symbolizing the community's dependence on God for daily sustenance and protection.

and the other at twilight
The phrase "and the other at twilight" indicates the completion of the day's cycle with another act of worship. Twilight, the transition from day to night, represents reflection and thanksgiving for the day's blessings. This practice of offering at both morning and twilight illustrates the continuous nature of worship and the Israelites' constant reliance on God. It also foreshadows the perpetual intercession of Christ, who is the same "yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8).

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 chosen people of God, who were given specific instructions on how to worship and offer sacrifices.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where sacrifices were made.

4. Sacrificial Lamb
Represents the daily offerings made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication.

5. Twilight
The time of day when the second lamb was to be offered, marking the end of the day and symbolizing continual devotion.

Teaching Points

Consistency in Worship
The daily offering of lambs signifies the importance of regular and consistent worship in the life of a believer. Just as the Israelites were to offer sacrifices daily, Christians are called to maintain a consistent relationship with God through prayer, reading Scripture, and worship.

Symbolism of the Lamb
The lambs offered in the morning and at twilight foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God. This highlights the importance of recognizing Christ's sacrifice in our daily lives and living in gratitude for His atonement.

Morning and Evening Devotion
The timing of the sacrifices encourages believers to begin and end their day with God. This practice can be applied today by setting aside time for morning and evening devotions, ensuring that our day is framed by God's presence.

Obedience to God's Commands
The specific instructions for the offerings demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word diligently and faithfully.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of daily sacrifices in Numbers 28:4 reflect the importance of consistency in our spiritual lives today?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the sacrificial lamb deepen our understanding of Jesus' role as the Lamb of God?

3. How can setting aside time for morning and evening devotions impact your relationship with God?

4. What are some practical ways to ensure obedience to God's commands in your daily life?

5. How do the daily sacrifices in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament teachings on Jesus' sacrifice, and how does this understanding affect your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:38-42
This passage provides the initial instructions for the daily offerings, establishing the practice that is reiterated in Numbers 28:4.

Leviticus 6:8-13
Discusses the perpetual fire on the altar, which relates to the continual nature of the daily sacrifices.

Hebrews 10:11-14
Connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all.