Numbers 7:31 – “His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 7:31 describes the specific offerings brought by Elizur, the leader of the tribe of Reuben, on the fourth day of the dedication of the altar. His offering included a silver plate and a silver sprinkling bowl, each filled with the finest flour mixed with olive oil as a grain offering. The grain offering was a key part of Israel’s worship, symbolizing gratitude, dedication, and the acknowledgment of God’s provision. It represented the fruits of the people’s labor given back to God in thankfulness.
The silver vessels, significant in both weight and material, reflected the value and honor that the worshipers placed on their offerings to God. The finest flour mixed with olive oil was a symbol of giving the best of what they had. Elizur’s offering was not just a matter of tradition; it was a heartfelt gesture that expressed reverence and gratitude to God, highlighting the importance of giving to God thoughtfully and generously.
Historical Context
This verse is set during the twelve-day dedication of the altar in the tabernacle at Mount Sinai. The tabernacle served as the central place of worship for the Israelites and represented God’s presence among His people. The altar was a critical element in the worship system, used for various sacrifices that sought atonement, expressed gratitude, and celebrated fellowship with God.
The dedication of the altar was a significant event as it marked the formal beginning of worship in the newly constructed tabernacle. Each tribal leader brought specific offerings on their designated day, creating a sense of unity and order in the dedication process. Elizur’s offering on the fourth day represented Reuben’s involvement, showing that worship was a communal act involving every tribe’s active participation.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 7:31 emphasizes the importance of giving back to God as an act of worship. The grain offering symbolizes the recognition that all blessings come from God, and giving a portion back is an act of gratitude and honor. This verse teaches that worship is not just about rituals but involves a genuine expression of thankfulness and dedication to God.
The silver plate and bowl filled with fine flour and oil highlight the principle that God deserves our best. Worship should not be casual or routine but intentional, reflective of the value we place on our relationship with God. This verse challenges us to give thoughtfully, not just out of obligation, but out of a heart that recognizes God’s generosity and responds with honor.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 7:31 is part of a detailed and repetitive account of the offerings brought by each leader of Israel’s tribes during the dedication of the altar. The structured and orderly presentation of each offering emphasizes the careful and deliberate nature of worship. Each leader’s contribution is recorded individually, underscoring the importance of every tribe’s participation in the dedication.
The specific mention of the weights of the silver vessels and the grain offering’s contents adds to the narrative’s sense of precision and care. This attention to detail reflects the broader theme of intentional worship, where every aspect is considered and valued. The repetitive style of the narrative reinforces the unity and collective effort of the tribes in dedicating the altar to God’s service.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 2:1-3: Describes the grain offering, which included fine flour and oil, symbolizing a gift of thanks and dedication to God.
- Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” This verse echoes the principle of giving back to God the best of what He has provided.
- 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse reflects the spirit of voluntary and joyful giving, as seen in the grain offering.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 7:31 serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to God in recognition of His provision. Elizur’s offering of fine flour and oil challenges us to consider how we express our gratitude to God, not just in words but in tangible ways. This verse encourages us to give thoughtfully and generously, reflecting the value we place on our relationship with God.
The verse also teaches that worship involves preparation and intentionality. The specific details of Elizur’s offering remind us that what we bring to God matters. Our worship should not be casual or half-hearted but deliberate and meaningful, demonstrating our desire to honor God with the best we have to offer.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Numbers 7:31 reflects God’s loving desire to be in a relationship with His people through acts of worship and thanksgiving. God’s acceptance of the grain offering shows that He values our expressions of gratitude and that our offerings, when given sincerely, are pleasing to Him. This verse highlights God’s generosity, reminding us that everything we have comes from Him and that He delights in our acknowledgment of His blessings.
God’s love is also seen in how He involves His people in the worship process, inviting them to participate actively in His service. The grain offering was not just about the gift itself but about connecting with God through a meaningful act of devotion. This verse shows that God values not just the offering but the heart behind it, affirming that our sincere acts of worship are received with joy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The grain offering in Numbers 7:31 points forward to Jesus Christ, who is described as the “bread of life” (John 6:35). Just as the grain offering symbolized provision and thanksgiving, Jesus represents God’s ultimate provision for our spiritual needs. Through Christ, we have received the greatest gift of all—eternal life—and our response should be one of gratitude and dedication.
Jesus’ sacrificial death also fulfilled the deeper meaning behind all the Old Testament offerings, including the grain offering. He gave Himself fully, not just as an act of obedience but as an offering of love and provision for humanity. This connection reminds us that our worship today is grounded in what Jesus has done for us, calling us to live lives of thanksgiving and to offer our best in response to His sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you express your gratitude to God in tangible ways, following the example of the grain offering?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of giving your best to God in worship?
- How can you ensure that your acts of worship are thoughtful, intentional, and reflect a heart of thankfulness?
- In what ways does Jesus’ role as the “bread of life” influence your understanding of God’s provision and your response to it?
- How does recognizing God’s love and generosity inspire you to give back to Him with joy and gratitude?
Numbers 7:31 teaches us about the importance of giving back to God from what He has provided, reminding us that our worship should be intentional and reflective of our gratitude. It challenges us to honor God with the best of what we have, recognizing His love and provision in our lives. Through Jesus, we are invited to respond with thankful hearts, offering ourselves fully in service to the One who has given us everything.