Numbers 18:30

Therefore say to the Levites, 'When you have presented the best part, it will be reckoned to you as the produce of the threshing floor or winepress.

Study Bible

Therefore say to the Levites
This phrase establishes a direct command from God to Moses, who is instructed to communicate with the Levites. The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties, and this command underscores their unique role in Israelite society. Historically, the Levites did not receive a land inheritance like the other tribes, as their inheritance was the Lord Himself (Numbers 18:20). This phrase emphasizes the importance of their divine service and the special instructions they received from God.

When you have set aside the best part
The "best part" refers to the portion of offerings that the Levites were to separate for the priests. In Hebrew, the word for "best" is "mēriṯ," which implies the choicest or most excellent portion. This reflects the principle of giving God and His servants the first and finest of what one has, a practice rooted in the idea of honoring God with one's substance (Proverbs 3:9). It is a reminder of the sacrificial system's purpose: to honor God with the best, acknowledging His provision and sovereignty.

it will be reckoned to you
The term "reckoned" in Hebrew is "ḥāšab," meaning to account or consider. This indicates that the act of setting aside the best part is not merely a ritual but is credited to the Levites as if they themselves had produced it. This concept of imputation is significant in biblical theology, as it foreshadows the New Testament teaching of righteousness being credited to believers through faith (Romans 4:3-5).

as the produce of the threshing floor or the winepress
The "threshing floor" and "winepress" are symbols of agricultural abundance and the fruits of labor. In ancient Israel, these were places where grain and grapes were processed, representing sustenance and joy. By equating the Levites' portion with these products, God assures them of their provision and sustenance. This imagery also points to the spiritual harvest and the joy of serving in God's kingdom, where the laborers are worthy of their hire (Luke 10:7). Theologically, it underscores the principle that those who serve God and His people are to be supported by the community's offerings, reflecting a divine economy of provision and blessing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levites
A tribe of Israel set apart for religious duties and service in the Tabernacle. They were not given a land inheritance like the other tribes but were supported by the tithes and offerings of the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, chosen to be a holy nation. They were commanded to bring offerings and tithes to support the Levites and the work of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It was the center of worship and religious activity.

4. Threshing Floor and Winepress
Agricultural terms referring to the places where grain and grapes were processed. Symbolically, they represent the source of sustenance and blessing.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who conveyed God's laws and instructions to the people, including the regulations concerning the Levites and their support.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Firstfruits
God deserves the best of what we have, not the leftovers. This principle teaches us to prioritize God in our giving and in our lives.

Supporting God’s Work
Just as the Israelites supported the Levites, we are called to support those who minister and serve in the church today. This includes financial support, prayer, and encouragement.

Trust in God’s Provision
By giving the best part, the Israelites demonstrated trust in God’s provision. We are encouraged to trust that God will meet our needs as we honor Him with our resources.

The Joy of Giving
Giving should be a joyful act of worship, not a burdensome obligation. When we give cheerfully, we reflect God’s generous nature.

Stewardship and Accountability
We are stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Offering the best part reminds us of our responsibility to manage our resources wisely and accountably.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of offering the "best part" challenge your current approach to giving and stewardship?

2. In what ways can you support those who serve in ministry within your community, similar to how the Israelites supported the Levites?

3. Reflect on a time when you trusted God with your resources. How did you experience His provision?

4. How can the principle of firstfruits be applied to areas of your life beyond financial giving?

5. What steps can you take to cultivate a joyful attitude towards giving, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:30-33
Discusses the tithe as holy to the Lord, emphasizing the importance of giving the best to God.

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

2 Corinthians 9:7
Highlights the attitude of giving, stating that God loves a cheerful giver, which aligns with the principle of offering the best part.