Leviticus 7:35 – “This is the portion of the food offerings presented to the Lord that were allotted to Aaron and his sons on the day they were presented to serve the Lord as priests.”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 7:35 emphasizes the specific portions of the offerings that were set aside for Aaron and his sons, who served as priests. These portions were not just random selections; they were deliberately allotted to the priests as their rightful share. This verse highlights that the priests, who were dedicated to serving the Lord, were provided for through the offerings brought by the people.
The verse also underscores the fact that these portions were designated on the day Aaron and his sons were ordained as priests. This was a significant moment, marking the beginning of their service to God and establishing a lasting provision for their needs. The food offerings, which were a central part of the Israelites’ worship, not only honored God but also supported those who ministered on behalf of the community.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was foundational to the religious life of the people. The priests, who were descendants of Aaron, played a crucial role in this system, acting as intermediaries between God and the Israelites. They performed the sacrifices, maintained the Tabernacle, and instructed the people in the ways of God. Because the priests did not have land or other means of generating income, God provided for them through the portions of the offerings that were brought by the people.
The designation of these portions on the day of their ordination was a way of ensuring that the priests would always be supported as they carried out their sacred duties. This provision was a practical way of acknowledging the importance of their work and the need for them to focus on their service to God without being burdened by concerns for their material needs.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 7:35 reflects the principle of God’s provision for those who serve Him. The verse shows that God cares for the needs of those who dedicate their lives to His service and ensures that they are supported through the offerings of the people. This provision is not just about meeting material needs but also about honoring the role of the priests and their work in maintaining the spiritual health of the community.
The verse also highlights the idea of ordained ministry. The priests were set apart for a specific purpose, and with that calling came both responsibilities and provisions. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God equips and provides for those He calls into service.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 7:35 is part of a detailed set of instructions regarding the sacrificial system and the provision for the priests. The verse is straightforward and declarative, stating clearly what portion belongs to the priests and linking it directly to their ordination. The use of the phrase “on the day they were presented to serve the Lord as priests” ties this provision to a specific moment of consecration, reinforcing the idea that this was a divinely ordained arrangement.
The structure of the verse places emphasis on the connection between the offerings and the priesthood, showing that the two were closely linked in the worship life of Israel. The verse serves as a reminder that the priests’ provision was not an afterthought but an integral part of the sacrificial system.
Biblical Cross-References
A key cross-reference is found in Exodus 29:29-30, where the ordination of Aaron and his sons is described, including the instructions for their priestly garments and the portions of offerings they would receive. Another important reference is Numbers 18:8-11, which outlines the specific portions of offerings that were to be given to the priests as their share, further establishing the principle of provision for those who serve in the Tabernacle.
In the New Testament, 1 Timothy 5:17-18 echoes this principle by instructing that elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching, and that “the worker deserves his wages.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Leviticus 7:35 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who are dedicated to ministry. While the specific practice of offering portions of sacrifices is no longer applicable, the principle of ensuring that those who serve in ministry are provided for remains relevant. This verse challenges believers to consider how they can contribute to the well-being of their pastors, missionaries, and others who serve in the church.
This verse also encourages Christians to recognize the value of ordained ministry and the importance of supporting those who have been set apart to serve God and the community. Just as the priests were provided for through the offerings of the people, those who serve in ministry today rely on the support of the church.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 7:35 reflects God’s love in that He ensures provision for those who serve Him. By instructing the Israelites to give a portion of their offerings to the priests, God was caring for those who had dedicated their lives to spiritual service. This command shows God’s concern for justice and fairness, ensuring that those who serve Him are not left without support.
God’s love is also evident in the way He involves the community in caring for the priests. This practice fostered a sense of responsibility and mutual support within the community, reflecting the communal nature of God’s relationship with His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 7:35 connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as both the priest and the offering, fulfilling the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament. Hebrews 4:14-16 speaks of Jesus as the great High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and provides for our spiritual needs.
Through Jesus, believers are called to a new kind of priesthood, where they offer themselves as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1). This verse encourages Christians to follow Jesus’ example of self-sacrifice and to support those who continue His work in the church today.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Leviticus 7:35 challenge you to think about supporting those who serve in ministry?
- In what ways can you offer something valuable to God as an expression of gratitude and devotion?
- How does this verse encourage you to view worship as not just a ritual but as an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others?
- What can you learn from the connection between the Old Testament practices of providing for the priests and the New Testament teachings on supporting those who preach the gospel?