Numbers 29:28

Include one male goat as a sin offering, in addition to the regular burnt offering with its grain offering and drink offering.

Study Bible

Include one male goat as a sin offering
The use of a male goat as a sin offering is significant in the sacrificial system of ancient Israel. The goat symbolizes the removal of sin and impurity from the community, as seen in Leviticus 16 during the Day of Atonement. The male goat, specifically, is often associated with atonement for the leaders or the community as a whole. This offering underscores the need for purification and reconciliation with God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement. The sin offering points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

In addition to the regular burnt offering
The regular burnt offering, or "olah," was a daily sacrifice that symbolized the complete dedication and surrender to God. It was a continual reminder of the people's need to maintain a right relationship with God. The addition of the sin offering to the regular burnt offering emphasizes the layered nature of Israel's sacrificial system, where different offerings served distinct purposes. This layering reflects the comprehensive nature of atonement and worship, which includes both the acknowledgment of sin and the expression of devotion.

With its grain offering
The grain offering, or "minchah," accompanied the burnt offering and was a tribute to God, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and the dedication of one's sustenance to the Lord. It was often made of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, representing purity, richness, and the pleasing aroma of a life dedicated to God. This offering highlights the importance of offering not just animals but also the produce of the land, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty over all aspects of life.

And drink offering
The drink offering, or "nesek," was poured out alongside the burnt and grain offerings, symbolizing the pouring out of one's life in service to God. It often consisted of wine, which was a valuable commodity, signifying the offering of one's best to God. The drink offering complements the other sacrifices, creating a holistic picture of worship that involves the totality of one's being and resources. This practice foreshadows the New Testament concept of being "poured out as a drink offering" (Philippians 2:17), reflecting a life fully surrendered to God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including the details of the offerings.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given these specific instructions for worship and offerings.

3. Tabernacle
The place where these offerings were to be made, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

4. Feast of Tabernacles
The context of this passage, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar, celebrating God's provision and presence.

5. Offerings
Specific sacrifices including grain and drink offerings, which were part of the worship and atonement practices.

Teaching Points

Understanding Worship
The detailed instructions for offerings remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The offerings symbolize dedication and thanksgiving, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

God's Provision
The Feast of Tabernacles celebrates God's provision, encouraging us to trust in His continued faithfulness.

Spiritual Fulfillment
The physical offerings foreshadow the spiritual fulfillment found in Christ, urging us to seek deeper spiritual truths.

Community Worship
The communal aspect of these offerings highlights the importance of gathering together in worship and celebration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the specific instructions for offerings in Numbers 29:28 reflect the character of God and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the Feast of Tabernacles point forward to the work of Christ, and how can this deepen our understanding of New Testament teachings?

3. How can we apply the principles of sacrifice and offering in our daily lives as described in Romans 12:1?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' practice of communal worship, and how can we incorporate these into our church communities today?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Numbers 29:28 enhance our appreciation of God's provision and faithfulness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Provides a broader context for the Feast of Tabernacles, detailing its significance and the types of offerings required.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, highlighting the temporary nature of these offerings.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament offerings.

John 7
Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles, offering living water, symbolizing the fulfillment of the festival's deeper spiritual meaning.