Numbers 18:18

And their meat belongs to you, just as the breast and right thigh of the wave offering belong to you.

Study Bible

And their meat shall be yours
This phrase signifies the provision and sustenance that God provides for the priests. The Hebrew word for "meat" here is "בָּשָׂר" (basar), which generally refers to flesh or food. In the context of the Levitical priesthood, this is a direct command from God, ensuring that the priests, who serve in the tabernacle, are provided for through the offerings of the people. This provision underscores the principle that those who serve God and His people are worthy of their sustenance from the work they do, a theme echoed in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 9:13-14).

just as the breast and right thigh
The "breast" and "right thigh" refer to specific portions of the sacrificial offerings that were designated for the priests. The Hebrew words are "חָזֶה" (chazeh) for breast and "שׁוֹק" (shoq) for thigh. These parts were considered choice cuts, symbolizing honor and respect for the priestly role. Historically, these portions were seen as a sign of God's favor and a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and the priesthood. The allocation of these parts to the priests highlights the importance of honoring those who mediate between God and His people.

of the wave offering
The "wave offering" is a specific type of offering in the Hebrew sacrificial system, known as "תְּנוּפָה" (tenufah). This offering involved the physical act of waving the sacrifice before the Lord, symbolizing the presentation and dedication of the offering to God. The wave offering was a way to acknowledge God's sovereignty and provision. It served as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God for their sustenance and the priests' role in facilitating this relationship. The wave offering, therefore, is not just a ritual act but a profound expression of worship and gratitude.

belong to you
The phrase "belong to you" emphasizes the rightful inheritance and provision for the priests. The Hebrew root "לָכֶם" (lachem) indicates possession and entitlement. This divine allocation underscores the principle of divine provision for those who are set apart for God's service. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God as the provider, ensuring that His servants are cared for. This provision is not merely a physical necessity but a spiritual affirmation of the priests' role and their special relationship with God. It serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in meeting the needs of His people, especially those who dedicate their lives to His service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron and His Sons
The primary recipients of the instructions in Numbers 18, Aaron and his sons were appointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle, responsible for the sacred duties and offerings.

2. The Israelites
The broader community of God's chosen people, who were commanded to bring offerings and sacrifices to the tabernacle as part of their covenant relationship with God.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship and sacrifice for the Israelites during their wilderness journey, where the priests performed their duties.

4. Wave Offering
A specific type of offering presented before the Lord, symbolizing the dedication of the offering to God and His service.

5. The Levitical Priesthood
The tribe of Levi, set apart for the service of the tabernacle, with Aaron and his descendants serving as priests.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
God ensures that those who serve Him are provided for, as seen in the allocation of offerings to the priests. This principle extends to supporting those in ministry today.

The Importance of Obedience in Worship
The Israelites were commanded to bring specific offerings, highlighting the importance of obedience in worship. Our worship should be aligned with God's instructions and principles.

The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood served as mediators between God and the people, foreshadowing the ultimate mediation of Christ. Understanding this role helps us appreciate the fulfillment of the law in Jesus.

Generosity and Support for Ministry
Just as the Israelites supported the priests, believers are called to support their local church and ministries, ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to God's work are cared for.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for the priests in Numbers 18:18 reflect God's care for those who serve Him, and how can this principle be applied in the church today?

2. In what ways does the wave offering symbolize dedication to God, and how can we apply this concept of dedication in our personal lives?

3. How does the role of the Levitical priesthood in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as our High Priest?

4. What are some practical ways we can support those in ministry, drawing from the principles found in Numbers 18 and related scriptures?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice and our response to His grace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 7:31-34
This passage provides further details on the wave offering, explaining the portions that belong to the priests, reinforcing the idea of provision for those serving in the tabernacle.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14
Paul references the principle that those who serve at the altar share in the offerings, drawing a parallel to the support of those who preach the gospel.

Hebrews 7:5
Discusses the Levitical priesthood and their right to receive tithes, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Testament understanding of priesthood.