Numbers 28:10

This is the burnt offering for every Sabbath, in addition to the regular burnt offering and its drink offering.

Study Bible

This is the burnt offering
The term "burnt offering" comes from the Hebrew word "olah," which means "that which goes up" or "ascent." This offering was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing complete surrender and dedication to God. In the ancient Israelite context, the burnt offering was a profound act of worship, representing the worshiper's desire to ascend spiritually and be wholly devoted to the Lord. It underscores the importance of offering our lives as a living sacrifice, wholly dedicated to God's service.

for every Sabbath
The Sabbath, or "Shabbat" in Hebrew, is a day of rest and spiritual rejuvenation, instituted by God as a perpetual covenant with His people (Exodus 31:16-17). The inclusion of a specific burnt offering for the Sabbath highlights the day's sanctity and the need for a deeper, more intentional focus on worship and rest. Historically, the Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, a reminder of God's creation and His deliverance from Egypt. It calls believers to pause from their labors and reflect on God's provision and faithfulness.

in addition to the regular burnt offering
The phrase "in addition to" indicates that the Sabbath offering was not a replacement but an addition to the daily sacrifices. The "regular burnt offering," or "tamid" in Hebrew, was a continual offering made every morning and evening, symbolizing the constant need for atonement and communion with God. This regularity teaches the importance of daily devotion and the continual need for God's grace and presence in our lives. The additional Sabbath offering emphasizes the special nature of the Sabbath as a time for extra devotion and reflection.

and its drink offering
The "drink offering," or "nesek" in Hebrew, was a libation of wine poured out in conjunction with the burnt offering. It symbolizes the outpouring of one's life and joy before the Lord. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wine was a symbol of joy and celebration, and its inclusion in the offering signifies the joy and gratitude that should accompany our worship. The drink offering complements the burnt offering, illustrating that our dedication to God should be accompanied by joy and thanksgiving, recognizing His abundant blessings and grace.

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. Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, set apart by God as a day of rest and worship, during which special offerings were made.

4. Burnt Offering
A type of sacrifice in which the entire offering was consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication to God.

5. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and offered sacrifices during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Regular Worship
The Sabbath offering was in addition to the regular offerings, highlighting the importance of consistent and dedicated worship in the life of a believer.

Symbolism of the Burnt Offering
The complete consumption of the burnt offering symbolizes total dedication and surrender to God, a principle that applies to our spiritual lives today.

Sabbath as a Day of Rest and Reflection
The Sabbath was a time set apart for rest and worship, reminding us of the need to regularly pause and focus on our relationship with God.

Christ as Our Ultimate Sacrifice
The sacrificial system points forward to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and became the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, offering us rest and reconciliation with God.

Living Sacrifices in Daily Life
As believers, we are called to live lives of worship and dedication, offering ourselves as living sacrifices in our daily actions and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the Sabbath offering in Numbers 28:10 enhance our understanding of the importance of regular worship in our lives today?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the burnt offering as total dedication to God be applied to our personal spiritual journey?

3. How does the observance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship challenge our current lifestyle and priorities?

4. What connections can we draw between the sacrificial system in the Old Testament and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

5. How can we practically live out the call to be "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:8-11
This passage provides the commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, establishing the foundation for the Sabbath offerings.

Leviticus 23:3
Reinforces the importance of the Sabbath as a day of rest and a holy convocation, connecting to the special offerings made on this day.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the concept of Sabbath rest for the people of God, drawing a spiritual parallel to the rest found in Christ.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, which can be seen as a New Testament application of the burnt offering's symbolism of total dedication.