The concept of "The Portion for the Sanctuary" refers to the specific allocations and offerings designated for the maintenance and service of the sanctuary, which was the sacred space where the Israelites worshiped God. This concept is rooted in the Old Testament, particularly in the Pentateuch, where God provides detailed instructions to Moses regarding the construction, maintenance, and service of the Tabernacle, and later, the Temple.

Biblical Foundation

The primary biblical foundation for the Portion for the Sanctuary is found in the Book of Exodus, where God commands the Israelites to bring offerings for the construction of the Tabernacle. Exodus 25:1-2 states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Tell the Israelites to bring Me an offering. You are to receive My offering from every man whose heart compels him.'" This voluntary offering was to include gold, silver, bronze, and other materials necessary for the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle.

In addition to the materials for construction, the Portion for the Sanctuary also included regular offerings and tithes that supported the ongoing service and maintenance of the sanctuary. Leviticus 27:30 emphasizes the importance of tithes: "Thus any tithe of the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD."

Purpose and Significance

The Portion for the Sanctuary served several key purposes. Firstly, it provided the necessary resources for the construction and upkeep of the sacred space where God would dwell among His people. Secondly, it supported the Levitical priesthood, who were responsible for performing the rituals and sacrifices required by the Law. Numbers 18:21 states, "Behold, I have given the Levites all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do, the service of the Tent of Meeting."

The offerings and tithes were also a means for the Israelites to express their devotion and obedience to God. By contributing to the sanctuary, the people acknowledged God's sovereignty and their dependence on Him. This act of giving was not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual exercise that reinforced the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Types of Offerings

The Portion for the Sanctuary included various types of offerings, each with its own significance and purpose:

1. Burnt Offerings: These were offerings made by fire, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God (Leviticus 1:3-4).

2. Grain Offerings: These offerings, often made of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, represented thanksgiving and dedication (Leviticus 2:1-2).

3. Peace Offerings: These were voluntary offerings expressing gratitude and fellowship with God (Leviticus 3:1).

4. Sin and Guilt Offerings: These offerings were made for atonement of specific sins and transgressions (Leviticus 4:3, 5:6).

5. Freewill Offerings: These were voluntary contributions made out of gratitude and devotion (Exodus 35:29).

New Testament Perspective

While the New Testament does not emphasize the physical sanctuary in the same way as the Old Testament, the principle of giving for the work of God continues. The early church practiced communal sharing and support for those in ministry. In 2 Corinthians 9:7 , Paul writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver."

The Portion for the Sanctuary, therefore, serves as a timeless principle of dedicating resources for the worship and service of God, reflecting a heart of obedience, gratitude, and reverence.