Leviticus 7:14 – “They are to bring one of each kind as an offering, a contribution to the Lord; it belongs to the priest who splashes the blood of the fellowship offering against the altar.”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 7:14 instructs that a portion of the fellowship offering, specifically one of each kind of bread mentioned in the previous verses, is to be given as a contribution to the Lord. This portion is set aside for the priest who performs the ritual of splashing the blood of the sacrifice against the altar. The verse emphasizes that the act of setting aside a portion of the offering is not just a ritualistic requirement but a way to provide for the priests who serve in God’s house.
The contribution of bread represents a tangible way for the worshiper to acknowledge God’s provision and to support those who minister on His behalf. By designating a portion of the offering for the priest, the verse underscores the importance of sustaining those who are dedicated to spiritual service.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was central to worship and maintaining a right relationship with God. The fellowship offering, also known as the peace offering, was a voluntary sacrifice given in thanksgiving or to fulfill a vow. The priests, who served in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), were not given land like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, their livelihood came from the portions of the sacrifices offered by the people.
The instruction to give a portion of the offering to the priest was part of a broader system designed to ensure that those who served in the Tabernacle were provided for. This practice was a way of honoring God by supporting His appointed ministers, recognizing that their work was essential to the spiritual well-being of the community.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 7:14 highlights the principle of giving back to God what He has given to us. The worshiper’s act of setting aside a portion of the offering for the priest is a way of acknowledging that all blessings come from God and that it is right to honor Him by supporting those who serve in His name.
This verse also speaks to the importance of sustaining the work of ministry. By ensuring that the priests were provided for, the sacrificial system reflected God’s care for those who dedicated their lives to spiritual service. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to support those who minister the Word and serve the church.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 7:14 is part of a detailed set of instructions regarding the fellowship offering. The verse is straightforward in its command, reflecting the practical nature of the Levitical laws. The use of the word “contribution” indicates that this portion of the offering is not just a gift but a necessary provision for the priests, who play a crucial role in the sacrificial process.
The structure of the verse, which ties the offering to the act of splashing the blood on the altar, reinforces the connection between the priest’s service and the support they receive. This literary connection underscores the idea that spiritual work requires practical support.
Biblical Cross-References
A relevant cross-reference is found in 1 Corinthians 9:13-14, where Paul writes, “Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” This New Testament passage directly connects to the principle seen in Leviticus 7:14.
Another important reference is Numbers 18:8-9, where God designates certain portions of the offerings as belonging to the priests, reinforcing the idea that those who serve in the sanctuary are to be provided for by the offerings of the people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Leviticus 7:14 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to ministry. Just as the priests in ancient Israel were sustained by the offerings of the people, modern-day pastors, missionaries, and church workers rely on the support of the Christian community to continue their work.
This verse challenges believers to consider how they can contribute to the well-being of those who serve in ministry, recognizing that their support is a way of honoring God and sustaining His work. It encourages Christians to see their giving as an act of worship, acknowledging God’s provision and participating in His work by supporting those who serve Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 7:14 reflects God’s love and care for those who serve Him. By ensuring that the priests were provided for, God demonstrated His concern for their well-being. This provision shows that God values the work of ministry and desires that those who dedicate their lives to His service are not left in need.
God’s love is also evident in the way He involves the entire community in supporting His work. The act of giving a portion of the offering to the priest is a way for the worshiper to participate in God’s work, reflecting His love and care for both the ministers and the people they serve.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 7:14 connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus is our ultimate High Priest who provides for all our spiritual needs. Just as the priests in the Old Testament were supported by the offerings of the people, Jesus, through His sacrifice, provides the ultimate offering that sustains us spiritually. Hebrews 7:25 says, “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
Through His ongoing intercession, Jesus continues to serve as our High Priest, ensuring that we are spiritually sustained. This verse also encourages believers to support those who follow in Jesus’ footsteps by dedicating their lives to ministry, recognizing that their work is essential to the spiritual health of the community.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Leviticus 7:14 challenge you to think about the importance of supporting those who serve in ministry today?
- In what ways can you contribute to the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to God’s work?
- How does this verse encourage you to see your financial giving as an act of worship and participation in God’s work?
- What can you learn from the connection between the Old Testament provision for priests and the role of Jesus as our High Priest in sustaining our spiritual lives?