“And the other lamb shalt thou offer at even: as the meat offering of the morning, and as the drink offering thereof, thou shalt offer it, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the Lord.”
This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses regarding the daily sacrifices and offerings to be made in the Tabernacle. The context of Numbers 28 focuses on the regular and special offerings that were to be presented to the Lord.
In Numbers 28:1-8, God outlines the offerings that were to be presented on a daily basis. These offerings consisted of a lamb offered in the morning and another lamb offered in the evening, along with a corresponding grain offering and drink offering. This verse specifically refers to the second lamb to be offered in the evening.
Let’s explore the key elements and deeper meaning behind this verse:
- Sacrifice and Offering: The verse mentions a “sacrifice made by fire.” The sacrificial system was an integral part of the worship in ancient Israel. Animals were offered as sacrifices, and they were consumed by fire as an act of devotion and surrender to God. These offerings symbolized the people’s gratitude, dedication, and desire for atonement and reconciliation with God.
- Sweet Savour: The sacrifice was described as a “sweet savour unto the Lord.” This phrase suggests that the aroma of the burnt offering was pleasing or acceptable to God. The sweet savour represents the fragrance of obedience and devotion, indicating that when the Israelites faithfully carried out these prescribed offerings, it brought pleasure to God.
- Symbolism: The lamb offered in the evening was a symbol of worship, repentance, and consecration. The evening sacrifice served as a way for the Israelites to reflect on their day, seek forgiveness for any sins committed, and renew their commitment to God. It also signified their trust in God’s provision and protection throughout the night.
- Continual Worship: The daily offering of sacrifices demonstrates the importance of consistent worship and devotion. God desired His people to approach Him with reverence and thanksgiving every day, recognizing His holiness and their dependence on Him. The regularity of the sacrifices emphasized the continuous relationship between God and His people.
- Christological significance: As Christians, we can see a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. Jesus is often referred to as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29), who offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:26-28). The sacrificial system in the Old Testament points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, highlighting His role as the perfect atonement for humanity.
In summary, Numbers 28:8 speaks about the evening sacrifice of a lamb, emphasizing the consistent and continuous worship of God. It highlights the importance of offering our devotion to God, seeking forgiveness, and recognizing His provision and protection. Furthermore, as Christians, we can find deeper meaning in this verse by recognizing the foreshadowing of Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice who offered Himself for our redemption.
