Numbers 18:31

And you and your households may eat the rest of it anywhere; it is the compensation for your work at the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

And you may eat it
This phrase signifies the permission granted to the Levites to partake in the offerings. The Hebrew root for "eat" is "אָכַל" (akal), which implies not just the physical act of eating but also the enjoyment and satisfaction derived from it. In the context of ancient Israel, eating was a communal and sacred act, often associated with fellowship and covenant. The Levites, who served in the Tent of Meeting, were given the privilege to consume these offerings, symbolizing their intimate participation in the sacred duties and blessings of God’s service.

as any other offering
The phrase indicates that the offerings given to the Levites were to be treated with the same respect and reverence as other sacred offerings. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which means something brought near or presented. This reflects the idea that offerings were not just gifts but acts of drawing near to God. The Levites, by consuming these offerings, were continually reminded of their role in facilitating the people's approach to God.

in your households
This phrase highlights the domestic and familial aspect of the Levites' consumption of the offerings. The Hebrew word for "households" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), which can mean both a physical house and a family unit. This indicates that the blessings of the offerings extended beyond the individual Levite to their entire family, emphasizing the communal nature of God’s provision and the importance of family in the spiritual life of Israel.

because it is your compensation
The term "compensation" here is derived from the Hebrew "שָׂכָר" (sachar), meaning wages or reward. This underscores the principle that those who serve in God’s work are worthy of their reward. The Levites did not inherit land like the other tribes; instead, their inheritance was the Lord and the offerings given by the people. This compensation was both a practical provision and a spiritual acknowledgment of their dedicated service.

for your work
The word "work" in Hebrew is "עֲבֹדָה" (avodah), which encompasses service, labor, and worship. The Levites' work was not merely a job but a sacred duty that involved maintaining the Tent of Meeting and facilitating the worship of God. This highlights the dignity and honor of serving in God’s presence, reminding us that all work done for the Lord is valuable and significant.

at the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting," or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Moed) in Hebrew, was the sacred space where God met with His people. It was the center of Israel’s worship and the place where God’s presence dwelled among them. The Levites’ service at the Tent of Meeting was a constant reminder of God’s desire to dwell with His people and the privilege of being called to serve in His presence. This phrase encapsulates the heart of the Levites' ministry and the centrality of worship in the life of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties and service in the Tent of Meeting. They were not given a land inheritance like the other tribes but were provided for through the offerings of the Israelites.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were commanded to bring offerings to support the Levites and the work of the Tent of Meeting.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who conveyed God's laws and instructions, including those concerning the support of the Levites.

5. The Offerings
These were the tithes and contributions given by the Israelites, which served as the provision for the Levites and their families.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The Levites' sustenance through the offerings illustrates God's faithfulness in providing for those dedicated to His service. This principle encourages trust in God's provision for those in ministry today.

The Importance of Supporting Ministry
Just as the Israelites were commanded to support the Levites, believers today are called to support their local church and those who labor in teaching and preaching the Word.

The Principle of Stewardship
The Israelites' giving to the Levites serves as a model of stewardship, reminding us of our responsibility to manage our resources in a way that honors God and supports His work.

The Blessing of Obedience
By obeying God's command to support the Levites, the Israelites participated in God's plan and received His blessings. Similarly, our obedience in giving can lead to spiritual and material blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for the Levites in Numbers 18:31 reflect God's care for those who serve Him? How can this principle be applied in the church today?

2. In what ways does the concept of tithing and offerings in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament teachings on giving?

3. How can we ensure that we are being good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, particularly in supporting our local church and ministry workers?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage and support those who are dedicated to full-time ministry in our communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in your life. How can this experience motivate you to trust and obey God's commands regarding giving and support for His work?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:1-2
This passage reiterates that the Levites have no inheritance among the Israelites, as the Lord Himself is their inheritance, emphasizing their dependence on God's provision through the offerings.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14
Paul draws a parallel between the support of the Levites and the support of those who preach the Gospel, highlighting the principle of providing for those who serve in ministry.

Malachi 3:10
This verse speaks about bringing the whole tithe into the storehouse, which connects to the idea of supporting God's work and those who serve in it.