Numbers 7:35 – “one ram, one male goat and one male lamb a year old, for a fellowship offering.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 7:35 describes part of the 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 ram, a male goat, and a one-year-old male lamb, all presented as a fellowship offering. The fellowship offering, also known as the peace offering, was an essential part of Israel’s worship, symbolizing peace, gratitude, and restored relationship between God and His people. It was an act of worship that celebrated communion with God and often involved sharing a portion of the offering in a communal meal, highlighting the joy of being in fellowship with God.
Each animal used in the fellowship offering carried specific symbolic meanings. The ram represented strength, leadership, and devotion; the male goat often signified the acknowledgment of sin and the need for purification; and the lamb symbolized innocence and purity. Together, these animals expressed the worshiper’s desire for peace with God and celebrated the joy of a reconciled relationship.
Historical Context
This verse takes place during the dedication of the altar in the tabernacle at Mount Sinai. The tabernacle served as the central place of worship for the Israelites, representing God’s presence among His people. The altar was a significant part of this worship system, where sacrifices were made to atone for sin, express gratitude, and celebrate fellowship with God.
The fellowship offering was unique because it was not entirely consumed on the altar. Instead, a portion was shared among the priests and sometimes with the worshipers themselves, creating a sense of community and celebration. During the dedication of the altar, the inclusion of fellowship offerings by each tribal leader highlighted the importance of gratitude, peace, and communion in worship. Elizur’s offering reflected the desire of the tribe of Reuben to be in a right relationship with God and to celebrate that relationship joyfully.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 7:35 emphasizes the importance of peace, gratitude, and fellowship in worship. The fellowship offering was not just about making a sacrifice but about expressing a joyful and restored relationship with God. It teaches that worship involves celebrating the peace we have with God and recognizing that this peace comes through His grace and mercy.
The fellowship offering also highlights the communal aspect of worship. By sharing the offering in a meal, the people demonstrated unity with one another and with God. This teaches that worship is not just a private act but a communal experience that strengthens relationships within the faith community and reflects God’s desire for His people to live in harmony.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 7:35 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 narrative’s structured and orderly presentation emphasizes the significance of each tribe’s participation and the communal nature of the event. The mention of the fellowship offering, with its unique component of sharing, underscores the relational aspect of worship—both with God and with others.
The repetition of the similar offerings by each leader creates a sense of unity and shared purpose, reinforcing the idea that honoring God is a collective effort. The specific details of the animals offered highlight the care and thoughtfulness involved in the act of worship, showing that each offering was a meaningful expression of devotion.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 3:1-5: Describes the process of the fellowship offering, emphasizing the sharing of the meal and the celebration of peace with God.
- Psalm 50:14: “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.” This verse reflects the spirit of gratitude and communal worship seen in the fellowship offering.
- Hebrews 13:15-16: Encourages believers to continually offer sacrifices of praise and to share with others, echoing the principles behind the fellowship offering of unity and gratitude.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 7:35 serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and community in our worship. The fellowship offering teaches us that our relationship with God is not just personal but is meant to be celebrated with others. This verse encourages us to participate in communal worship, acknowledging that we are part of a larger family of faith.
It also emphasizes the importance of joy and gratitude in our walk with God. Just as the fellowship offering was a joyful expression of peace and communion, our worship today should include a spirit of thankfulness and celebration. This passage challenges us to recognize God’s blessings and to share those blessings within our communities.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Numbers 7:35 reflects God’s loving desire for His people to live in peace and fellowship with Him and with one another. The fellowship offering was God’s invitation for His people to experience joy, gratitude, and unity. It shows that God delights in being close to His people and wants them to enjoy a loving relationship with Him.
God’s love is also evident in how He provided a way for His people to express their gratitude and experience peace with Him. The fellowship offering was not just about fulfilling a duty; it was about enjoying God’s presence and celebrating His goodness. This verse reminds us that God values our worship and desires us to come to Him with thankful hearts.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The fellowship offering in Numbers 7:35 points forward to Jesus Christ, who made the ultimate peace offering through His sacrifice on the cross. Jesus is often called our peace, reconciling us to God and breaking down barriers between people (Ephesians 2:14-16). Through Jesus, the separation caused by sin is removed, allowing us to enjoy a restored relationship with God and one another.
Jesus’ practice of sharing meals with His followers reflected the spirit of the fellowship offering. The Last Supper, where Jesus broke bread and shared wine with His disciples, symbolizes the peace and communion that Jesus brings. Through Christ, we experience the ultimate fellowship offering, uniting us with God and the broader community of believers.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you incorporate the spirit of the fellowship offering in your own worship and daily life?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of community and shared worship with other believers?
- How can you create an environment of gratitude and celebration in your walk with God and within your church community?
- In what ways does Jesus’ role as our ultimate peace offering influence your approach to worship and fellowship?
- How can you share the blessings you have received from God with those around you, reflecting the communal nature of the fellowship offering?
Numbers 7:35 teaches us about the value of fellowship, community, and gratitude in our worship. It reminds us that God desires not just acts of devotion but a relationship that includes celebration and sharing with others. Through Jesus, our ultimate fellowship offering, we are invited into a deeper connection with God and one another, experiencing the fullness of His peace and love.