"Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, and my bread for my sacrifices made by fire, for a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season."
This verse is part of a larger section in the book of Numbers that details the regulations and instructions for the various offerings and sacrifices the Israelites were to present to the Lord. Let’s explore the key themes and insights from this verse:
Divine Command:The verse begins with God commanding Moses to instruct the children of Israel. This highlights the authority and sovereignty of God, emphasizing that His instructions are to be followed.
Offerings and Sacrifices:God refers to the offerings and sacrifices made by fire, which were an integral part of Israelite worship. These offerings consisted of animals, grain, and other offerings presented on the altar as a form of worship and atonement for sins.
A Sweet Savour:The offerings made by fire were intended to be a pleasing aroma or a "sweet savour" to the Lord. This phrase conveys the idea that these sacrifices were more than mere rituals; they were acts of devotion and obedience that delighted God when offered with the right heart and motives.
Observance in Due Season:God instructs the Israelites to offer these sacrifices in their due season. This emphasizes the importance of timing and order in worship. The offerings were to be presented at the appointed times and in the prescribed manner as outlined in the Law.
Lessons and Applications:
- Obedience to God’s Commands:Just as God commanded the Israelites to offer sacrifices, we are also called to obey God’s commands in our lives. Though the specific regulations regarding offerings may not apply to us today, the principles of devotion, obedience, and worship remain relevant.
- The Nature of Worship:The concept of a "sweet savour" indicates that our acts of worship should be offered with sincerity, humility, and reverence. It is not merely about going through the motions but about offering our whole selves to God in a manner that pleases Him.
- Observing God’s Timing:The phrase "in their due season" reminds us that God’s timing is important. We should be mindful of aligning our actions and offerings with God’s purposes and timing, seeking His guidance in all aspects of our lives.
- Christ as the Ultimate Sacrifice:While Numbers 28:2 specifically addresses the Old Testament sacrificial system, it also points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross fulfilled the need for animal sacrifices, making Him the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice for our sins.
In summary, Numbers 28:2 teaches us about the importance of obeying God’s commands, offering sincere worship, observing proper timing, and recognizing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. By studying this verse, we gain insight into the principles of devotion and obedience in our relationship with God.
