“On the fourth day Elizur the son of Shedeur, prince of the children of Reuben, did offer.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and it focuses on the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. It contains various accounts of the organisation of the tribes, laws, and regulations given by God to the Israelites.
The Setting:In Numbers 7, we find a detailed account of the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel at the consecration of the altar. Each leader brought a specific set of offerings on a different day, and this verse specifically refers to the offerings brought on the fourth day.
Elizur, the son of Shedeur:Elizur was the prince or leader of the tribe of Reuben. He was responsible for presenting the offerings on behalf of his tribe. The mention of his name highlights the significance of his role in the consecration of the altar.
The Offering:While the specific details of the offering brought by Elizur are not mentioned in this verse, the previous verses in Numbers 7 describe the offerings brought by the other tribal leaders. These offerings consisted of silver plates, silver basins, golden spoons, a young bull, a ram, a male lamb in its first year for a burnt offering, a male goat for a sin offering, and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs in their first year for a peace offering.
Spiritual Significance:The offerings made by the tribal leaders were significant because they symbolised the dedication and commitment of the Israelite tribes to the worship of God. Each tribe had a designated leader who took responsibility for presenting the offerings on their behalf. This act demonstrated their unity, obedience, and acknowledgement of God’s authority over their lives.
Application:While Numbers 7:30 focuses on a specific event in the Old Testament, we can draw a few key principles from this verse. First, it reminds us of the importance of leadership and the role leaders play in guiding and representing their people. Second, it emphasises the significance of offering and sacrifice in the worship of God. Though we no longer offer animal sacrifices, we can offer our lives as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) by surrendering ourselves to God and dedicating our actions, thoughts, and resources to His service.
In conclusion, Numbers 7:30 showcases the offering presented by Elizur, the leader of the tribe of Reuben, on the fourth day of the consecration of the altar. It highlights the role of leaders, the act of offering, and serves as a reminder of our own commitment to worship and serve God.
