Numbers 28:31

Offer them with their drink offerings in addition to the regular burnt offering and its grain offering. The animals must be unblemished.

Study Bible

You are to present them
This phrase emphasizes the active role of the Israelites in worship. The Hebrew root for "present" is "qarab," which means to draw near or approach. This act of presenting offerings signifies the Israelites' desire to draw near to God, highlighting the relational aspect of worship. It is a reminder that worship is not passive but requires intentional action and dedication.

with their drink offerings
Drink offerings, or "nesek" in Hebrew, were typically wine poured out in the sanctuary as an act of worship. This practice symbolizes the pouring out of one's life in devotion to God. Historically, drink offerings were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, signifying the complete dedication of the offerer. In the Christian context, it foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who poured out His life for humanity.

in addition to the regular burnt offering
The "regular burnt offering," or "olah tamid" in Hebrew, refers to the continual sacrifices made daily in the temple. This regularity underscores the importance of consistent and ongoing worship. It serves as a reminder that our relationship with God requires daily commitment and renewal, much like the daily sacrifices that were a constant in the life of the Israelites.

and its grain offering
The grain offering, or "minchah," was a tribute to God, often consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It represents the fruits of human labor and the dedication of one's work to God. This offering highlights the principle that all aspects of life, including our work and sustenance, are to be consecrated to God. It is a call to acknowledge God's provision and sovereignty over all creation.

They must be unblemished
The requirement for offerings to be "unblemished" reflects God's holiness and the standard of perfection He requires. The Hebrew word "tamim" means complete or whole, indicating that God deserves the best we have to offer. This prefigures the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb without blemish, who fulfilled the law's requirements and provided a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. It challenges believers to offer their best in service and devotion, striving for holiness in their walk with God.

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 people of God who were given these laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites were to bring their offerings and sacrifices, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

4. Priests
The descendants of Aaron who were responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the rituals as prescribed by God.

5. Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices instituted by God for the Israelites, which included burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
The requirement for offerings to be "without blemish" underscores the importance of purity and holiness in our worship and service to God. We are called to present our best to God, reflecting His holiness in our lives.

The Role of Sacrifice
Sacrifices were central to the Israelites' relationship with God, symbolizing atonement and dedication. In the New Covenant, Jesus is our ultimate sacrifice, and we are called to live sacrificially in response to His grace.

Consistency in Worship
The regularity of offerings highlights the need for consistent and faithful worship. Our spiritual disciplines should be regular and intentional, reflecting our ongoing commitment to God.

Symbolism of Completeness
The combination of burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings represents a complete act of worship. Our worship should encompass all aspects of our lives, offering everything to God.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points forward to Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets. Understanding the Old Testament sacrifices enriches our appreciation of Christ's work on the cross.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for offerings to be "without blemish" challenge us in our personal walk with God today?

2. In what ways can we offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

3. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure consistency and faithfulness in our worship and spiritual disciplines?

5. How can the symbolism of completeness in the offerings (burnt, grain, and drink) be applied to our approach to worship and service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1-7
Provides detailed instructions on the various types of offerings, including burnt offerings and grain offerings, emphasizing the need for offerings to be without blemish.

Hebrews 10:1-18
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate, perfect sacrifice.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, drawing a parallel to the concept of offerings being without blemish.