Numbers 7:5

"Accept these gifts from them, that they may be used in the work of the Tent of Meeting. And give them to the Levites, to each man according to his service."

Study Bible

Accept these from them
In this phrase, the Lord instructs Moses to receive the offerings from the leaders of Israel. The Hebrew root for "accept" is "laqach," which means to take or receive. This action signifies God's willingness to engage with His people through their offerings. It highlights the importance of community participation in worship and the acknowledgment of God's provision. Historically, this acceptance underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where offerings are a tangible expression of devotion and gratitude.

that they may be used
The purpose of the offerings is specified here. The Hebrew word "asah," meaning to do or make, is used, indicating that the offerings are not merely symbolic but have a practical function. This reflects the biblical principle that worship involves both spiritual and physical acts. The offerings are intended for service, demonstrating that what is given to God is used for His purposes, reinforcing the idea of stewardship and the practical outworking of faith.

in the work at the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting," or "Ohel Moed" in Hebrew, was the sacred space where God met with Moses and the Israelites. It was the center of worship and the place where God's presence dwelled among His people. The work at the Tent of Meeting involved the maintenance of the tabernacle and the facilitation of worship. This phrase emphasizes the communal and sacred nature of the offerings, as they support the ongoing worship and service to God. It also points to the organized structure of worship in Israel, where each tribe contributed to the functioning of the tabernacle, symbolizing unity and shared responsibility in the community of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives instructions from God regarding the distribution of offerings.

2. The Levites
A tribe set apart for the service of the Tabernacle, responsible for its care and transportation.

3. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it is the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites.

4. The Offerings
Gifts brought by the leaders of Israel, consisting of carts and oxen, to aid in the service of the Tabernacle.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who are organized into tribes and contribute to the service of the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Service and Stewardship
The Levites were entrusted with the care of the Tabernacle, reminding us of the importance of faithful stewardship in our own service to God.

Community Contribution
The offerings from the leaders of Israel demonstrate the value of communal support and participation in the work of God.

Divine Order and Organization
God's instructions to Moses reflect His desire for order and organization in worship, which can be applied to our personal and corporate worship practices today.

Spiritual Gifts and Roles
Just as the Levites were given specific roles, each believer is gifted uniquely for service in the body of Christ, as described in 1 Corinthians 12.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levites in Numbers 7:5 inform our understanding of spiritual service and leadership within the church today?

2. In what ways can we, like the Israelites, contribute to the work of God in our communities?

3. How does the organization and distribution of tasks among the Levites reflect God's character and His expectations for order in our lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the service of the Levites and the New Testament teaching on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12?

5. How can we apply the principles of stewardship and service from Numbers 7:5 to our personal walk with God and our involvement in church activities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide detailed instructions for the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, highlighting its significance as the dwelling place of God among His people.

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters outline the various offerings and sacrifices, emphasizing the importance of worship and service in the life of the Israelites.

1 Chronicles 23-26
These chapters describe the organization and duties of the Levites, showing the continuity of their service from the time of Moses to the monarchy.

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, drawing a parallel between the earthly Tabernacle and the heavenly reality.