Numbers 28:21

and a tenth of an ephah with each of the seven lambs.

Study Bible

a tenth of an ephah
The term "ephah" is a Hebrew unit of dry measure, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. In the context of ancient Israel, this measurement was significant for offerings and sacrifices, indicating precision and obedience to God's commands. The "tenth of an ephah" signifies a specific portion, underscoring the importance of exactness in worship. This precision reflects the holiness and orderliness that God desires from His people. It reminds us that our offerings to God, whether material or spiritual, should be given with intentionality and care, reflecting our reverence and devotion.

with each
The phrase "with each" emphasizes the individual attention given to every lamb in the offering. This detail highlights the personal nature of worship and sacrifice in the Israelite community. Each lamb, representing a part of the whole, required its own specific measure of grain offering. This can be seen as a metaphor for how God values each individual within the community, recognizing and requiring personal dedication and commitment. It serves as a reminder that in our spiritual lives, God sees and values our individual contributions and acts of worship.

of the seven lambs
The number "seven" in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting God's creation week. In this context, the "seven lambs" offered daily as part of the continual burnt offering signify a complete and perfect offering to God. The lambs, innocent and pure, are a foreshadowing of Christ, the Lamb of God, who would be the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin. This imagery calls believers to reflect on the completeness of Christ's sacrifice and the call to live lives of holiness and dedication, offering ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). The historical practice of offering lambs daily underscores the continual need for atonement and the constant presence of God in the life of His people.

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. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. Sacrificial System
The set of offerings and sacrifices commanded by God, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, and others, to maintain a covenant relationship with Him.

5. Feast of Weeks
One of the appointed feasts where these offerings were to be made, emphasizing the importance of obedience and worship.

Teaching Points

Obedience in Worship
The specific instructions for offerings highlight the importance of obedience in worship. God desires that we follow His commands precisely, reflecting our reverence and commitment to Him.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and the best of our resources. It reminds us to offer our best to God in all aspects of life, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and service.

Consistency in Devotion
The regularity of offerings, such as those described in Numbers 28, teaches us the importance of consistent devotion and worship in our spiritual lives. Regular spiritual disciplines help maintain our relationship with God.

Christ as the Fulfillment
While the Old Testament sacrificial system was a shadow of things to come, Christ is the fulfillment of these offerings. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of His sacrifice and encourages us to live in gratitude and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific instruction for the grain offering in Numbers 28:21 reflect the nature of God’s expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of offering our "best" to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways to maintain consistency in our spiritual disciplines, similar to the regular offerings described in Numbers 28?

5. How can understanding the Old Testament offerings enhance our appreciation for the New Testament teachings on Christ’s sacrifice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2
Provides detailed instructions on grain offerings, emphasizing the use of fine flour and oil, which parallels the instructions in Numbers 28:21.

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of priests and the offerings required, highlighting the importance of purity and dedication in worship.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, who is the ultimate offering, connecting the Old Testament practices to New Testament theology.