Deuteronomy 14:23

And you are to eat a tenth of your grain, new wine, and oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks, in the presence of the LORD your God at the place He will choose as a dwelling for His Name, so that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always.

Study Bible

And you are to eat
This phrase emphasizes the personal participation in the act of worship through eating. In Hebrew, the word for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which implies not just physical consumption but also a communal and covenantal act. Eating the tithe was a way to tangibly experience God's provision and blessing, reinforcing the relationship between the Israelites and God. It was a reminder that all sustenance comes from Him.

the tithe of your grain, new wine, and oil
The tithe, or "מַעֲשֵׂר" (ma'aser) in Hebrew, was a tenth of the produce, symbolizing the acknowledgment that everything belongs to God. Grain, wine, and oil were staples of the ancient Near Eastern diet, representing the fullness of God's provision. The tithe was not merely a tax but a sacred offering, a way to honor God with the firstfruits of one's labor, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness.

and the firstborn of your herds and flocks
The firstborn, or "בְּכוֹר" (bekhor), held special significance as it represented the best and the beginning of increase. Offering the firstborn was a profound act of faith and trust in God's continued provision. It was a declaration that God deserves the best, and it was a way to consecrate the entire herd or flock to Him.

in the presence of the LORD your God
This phrase underscores the importance of worshiping in God's presence, which in Hebrew is "לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" (lifnei Yahweh). Worship was not a distant or abstract act but a personal encounter with the divine. Being in God's presence was both a privilege and a responsibility, reminding the Israelites of His holiness and their need for reverence.

at the place He will choose as a dwelling for His Name
The "place" refers to the central sanctuary, which would later be established in Jerusalem. This was not just a geographical location but a spiritual center where God's presence dwelled. The "Name" of God, or "שֵׁם" (shem), signifies His character and authority. The chosen place was a tangible reminder of God's covenant and His desire to dwell among His people.

so that you may learn to fear the LORD your God always
The phrase "learn to fear" in Hebrew is "לְמַעַן תִּלְמַד לְיִרְאָה" (lema'an tilmad leyirah), which conveys the idea of growing in reverence and awe. The fear of the Lord is not about terror but about a deep respect and acknowledgment of His power and holiness. This fear is foundational for wisdom and obedience, guiding the Israelites to live in a way that honors God continually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the tithe and prescribes the place of worship.

4. The Place He Will Choose
Refers to the future central place of worship, which would later be Jerusalem.

5. Tithing
The act of giving a tenth of one's produce and livestock as an offering to God.

Teaching Points

The Purpose of Tithing
Tithing is an act of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

Learning to Fear the LORD
The practice of tithing and communal worship cultivates a reverent fear of God, reminding believers of His holiness and authority.

The Centrality of Worship
Worship is not just a personal act but a communal one, centered around God's chosen place and presence.

God's Provision and Blessing
Trusting God with our resources leads to spiritual growth and blessings, as we rely on His provision.

The Heart of Worship
True worship involves the heart and attitude, not just the act of giving. It is about honoring God with our best.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of tithing in Deuteronomy 14:23 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of tithing today, considering the New Testament teachings?

3. How does gathering in a specific place for worship, as instructed in Deuteronomy 14:23, relate to the concept of church fellowship in Hebrews 10:25?

4. What does it mean to "learn to fear the LORD" in the context of our modern-day faith journey?

5. How can we ensure that our acts of worship, including giving, are done with the right heart and attitude?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30-32
Discusses the concept of tithing as holy to the LORD, emphasizing its sacred nature.

Malachi 3:10
Encourages bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings for obedience.

Matthew 23:23
Jesus acknowledges the practice of tithing but emphasizes justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

Hebrews 10:25
Highlights the importance of gathering together, which connects to the communal aspect of worship in Deuteronomy 14:23.