“And if a stranger sojourn with you, or whosoever be among you in your generations, and will offer an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; as ye do, so he shall do.”
Context: The book of Numbers records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It contains various laws, instructions, and regulations given by God to Moses for the Israelite community.
Inclusion of the Stranger: In this verse, God instructs the Israelites regarding the treatment of strangers or foreigners who dwell among them. The phrase “stranger sojourn with you” refers to a foreigner who has joined the Israelite community. The term “whosoever be among you in your generations” emphasizes that this instruction applies not only to strangers of that time but also to future generations.
Offering Made by Fire: The verse mentions that if a stranger wishes to offer an offering made by fire of a sweet savour (a pleasing aroma) to the Lord, they should be allowed to do so. In the Old Testament, offerings made by fire referred to sacrifices presented at the altar to worship and honor God.
Equality in Worship: This verse emphasizes the principle of equality before God. The Israelites were to extend the same rights and privileges to strangers who wished to worship and offer sacrifices to the Lord. The command implies that there should be no discrimination or distinction made between Israelites and foreigners in matters of worship.
Implications for Believers: While this verse specifically addresses the Israelites in their community, it carries a broader principle for believers today. In the New Testament, Jesus taught about loving one’s neighbor and treating others as we would want to be treated (Matthew 22:39, Luke 6:31). Christians are called to embrace all believers, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background, and offer them the same acceptance and opportunities to worship and serve God.
God’s Heart for the Stranger: Throughout the Bible, we see God’s concern for the stranger, the foreigner, and the marginalized. God repeatedly commands His people to treat strangers with kindness, fairness, and compassion, reminding them that they were once strangers in the land of Egypt (Exodus 22:21, Leviticus 19:34, Deuteronomy 10:19). This verse in Numbers reiterates that principle.
In conclusion, Numbers 15:14 teaches us the importance of inclusivity and equality in worship. God desires that strangers among His people be treated with respect and given the opportunity to offer sacrifices and worship Him. This verse carries a broader application for believers today, encouraging us to embrace and accept all believers, regardless of their background, and to demonstrate the love of Christ to those who are outside our immediate community.
