“And thou shalt go unto the priest that shall be in those days, and say unto him, I profess this day unto the Lord thy God, that I am come unto the country which the Lord sware unto our fathers for to give us.”
Historical Context: The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, and it contains Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. Deuteronomy means “second law,” and it serves as a reminder and reiteration of the laws and commandments given by God.
The Practice of Firstfruits: Deuteronomy 26:1-11 describes the practice of bringing the firstfruits of the land to the Lord. The verse you mentioned, Deuteronomy 26:3, specifically instructs the Israelites to go to the priest who is serving at that time and make a profession or declaration.
Acknowledging God’s Faithfulness: The verse emphasizes the Israelites’ acknowledgment of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling the promises He made to their fathers (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) regarding the land they were entering. By confessing this before the priest, they publicly recognize God’s role as the giver of the land.
The Role of the Priest: The priest acted as an intermediary between the people and God. In this context, the priest was responsible for receiving the firstfruits offering and representing the people before God. The Israelites were to approach the priest and make their profession, declaring their obedience and gratitude for God’s provision.
Application to Believers: While this verse has specific instructions for the Israelites in their historical context, there are a few principles that can be applied to believers today. It reminds us to acknowledge God’s faithfulness and provision in our lives. We can express gratitude and confess our reliance on God as the ultimate source of all blessings. Furthermore, it serves as a reminder to approach God with humility, recognizing His authority and seeking His guidance through the appropriate channels (e.g., prayer, seeking counsel from spiritual leaders).
Remember, a comprehensive Bible study involves considering the broader context, exploring related verses, and understanding the historical and cultural backgrounds. It is also helpful to consult commentaries and study resources for further insights.
