Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry — When the tabernacle was dedicated, Israel’s leaders presented generous offerings of wagons and oxen, demonstrating authentic leadership and unity. God instructed Moses to distribute these gifts to the Levites for serving the tabernacle, showing that a leader’s giving heart funds the ministry’s mission. Actual biblical provision happens when generous, sincere offerings are offered and used in service, with each act of giving becoming worship unto the Lord.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
.
Scriptures used in this lesson:
Numbers 7:1-9, Numbers 7:10-13, Colossians 3:17, Exodus 19:6, Numbers 35:7, Deuteronomy 18:1-2, Numbers 3:50-51, Numbers 18:24, Leviticus 25:33-34, Numbers 18:11-14, Numbers 18:24-27,
Introduction: The Leaders and Their Offerings
Numbers 7:1-9
7:1 And it came to pass on the day that Moses had fully set up the tabernacle, and had anointed it, and sanctified it, and all the instruments thereof, both the altar and all the vessels thereof, and had anointed them, and sanctified them;
2 That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:
3 And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.
4 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5 Take it of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
6 And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites.
7 Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, according to their service:
8 And four wagons and eight oxen he gave unto the sons of Merari, according unto their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.
9 But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders.
And it came to pass on the day, we were in that one last week, remember it came to pass from our last lesson?
The passage begins with a focus on the princes or leaders of Israel, as translated in both the NASV and NIV Bibles. These leaders are also called the heads of their tribes and families. They were already mentioned in chapter 1 in connection with the elders’ teaching. In this section, these same leaders bring offerings to the Lord. Specifically, they present six covered wagons and twelve oxen—one wagon for every two leaders and one ox for each leader. All of these offerings are presented before the tabernacle.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God then instructs Moses to give these wagons and oxen to the Levites, who will use them for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation. In the NASV, this place is called the Tent of Meeting, which the passage likens to a church building—a central place for worship and gathering.
Moses distributes the wagons and oxen to the different families among the Levites. The Gershonites receive two wagons and four oxen for their work. The sons of Merari get four wagons and eight oxen, assigned under the supervision of Ithamar, Aaron’s son. However, the Kohathites do not receive any wagons or oxen, because their responsibility is to carry the most sacred items of the sanctuary directly on their shoulders.
Numbers 7:10-13
10 And the princes offered for dedicating of the altar in the day that it was anointed, even the princes offered their offering before the altar.
11 And the LORD said unto Moses, They shall offer their offering, each prince on his day, for the dedicating of the altar.
12 And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:
13 And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:
Let me walk you through what’s happening here. It’s now the time to dedicate and anoint the tabernacle. In the past, when it was first set up in Exodus, they hadn’t set it apart yet. Now, things have changed. The twelve leaders of Israel are about to bring their offerings to the Lord. We’re starting a twelve-day feast, where each leader will present a sacrifice from his tribe, one per day, for twelve days. Each offering is brought to the altar, handed to Moses and Aaron, and accepted as an offering to God.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
This chapter is really all about giving. It’s about leaders who have a heart for generosity. As I read this, I see how much God values a leader’s willingness to give. We begin on the bottom of page 143 of our notes, which discusses the princes or leaders of Israel. On page 144, it continues, focusing on these men. These leaders are not just important men in their families—they are also generous supporters.
I genuinely believe that if you claim to support a vision or movement, you have to help fund it. If you genuinely believe in it, your heart and your treasure follow. The Bible tells me that a leader must have a giving heart. If a leader isn’t putting their resources into the church’s purpose and mission, I have to wonder if they are really committed to leading it.
The Example of Generosity
If someone isn’t giving into the vision and purpose, they aren’t really leading. Leaders who don’t invest are usually there for selfish reasons. When people stop believing in a vision, they also stop giving to it. That’s the reality we’re examining.
I notice this dynamic when I visit people or attend family gatherings. It doesn’t take long to figure out who the true leader is in any group. With a bit of discernment, you quickly see who stands out and who may become a leader in the future. It’s always interesting to watch how people respond to one another.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
What stands out about the leaders in this passage is that even those who knew them best respected them. It’s one thing to impress people who don’t really know you. For example, I might be able to fool someone who just met me, but I couldn’t pull the wool over my family’s eyes. My family knows everything about me—my mistakes, my troubles, and my history. Strangers might not know all those details, but my family does.
The Role of Leaders
What we learn here is that these leaders were heads of their families, and those closest to them still followed. That’s rare. Finding people who know you well and still support you is a sign of authentic leadership. The passage points out that the princes of Israel, leaders of their houses and tribes, brought their offerings. The next part discusses those offerings in more detail.
This chapter focuses on offerings. The word “offering” or some form of it appears sixty-six times. Each time, it means something brought near the altar. It’s about approaching the altar and bringing something for its intended purpose.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
What stands out is that nowhere in Scripture do I see God telling these twelve leaders to bring these sacrifices. There is no command for them to do this. God did not instruct Moses to tell the leaders to bring an offering, pair up, and bring carts together. It was not a requirement. Instead, this offering from the leaders was completely spontaneous. It came from their hearts, a true expression of their desire to give.
Dedicated Offerings and True Worship
All twelve leaders participated. None of them sat back and let others do it. They came together in unity, ready to move forward with the people of Israel. The chapter marks a turning point—they’re preparing to load everything on carts and move ahead.
The Heart of Giving
The critical point for me is this: when leaders are united, giving, and focused on the vision, it shows their hearts are truly in it. Jesus said, Where your treasure is, there your heart will be. These leaders didn’t give because of personal gain. They gave out of unity, passion, and purpose, even though there was no apparent benefit to themselves. Their giving revealed what was truly in their hearts.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Sometimes it is easy to give when we expect something in return. But in this passage, people were bringing costly offerings with no expectation of repayment. They were not gaining anything back, which revealed the actual condition of their hearts. Scripture reminds us that where our heart is, there our treasure will also be. Their giving was sincere, and they brought their offerings before the Lord at the tabernacle.
Giving in Jesus’ Name
Today, when we give, we also bring our offerings before the Lord. We say we give them in Jesus’ name. That means our giving becomes an act of blessing and worship. For example, if I give a hundred dollars to a ministry and place it before the Lord in Jesus’ name, it is no longer mine. Once I release it, it belongs to Him. But if I later demand it back because I dislike how the money was used, then I did not truly give it in Jesus’ name. Instead, I gave it in my own name, keeping control over it. When it is given in Jesus’ name, it becomes His money, and He is the one who oversees it.
Abuses of money in ministry are not new. For years, televangelists and large ministries have been criticized for how they spend offerings. Yet if I truly gave in Jesus’ name, my blessing does not depend on how that person used the money. My reward is secure because I gave it unto the Lord. The heart of giving matters most. When we give with the right heart, we release it entirely to God, offering it in the name of Jesus. That is when giving becomes true worship.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Colossians 3:17
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Scriptural Principle: Do All in the Name of the Lord
Colossians 3:17 teaches that whatever we do, whether in word or deed, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, with thankfulness to God. If we truly act in the Lord’s name and give something to Him, the ministry, or someone else, it becomes theirs. This idea will develop further as the discussion continues.
The message then shifts to a practical example involving six covered wagons and twelve oxen. While the numbers six and twelve could be explored for deeper meaning, the focus stays on the gifts themselves. To relate this to today, imagine bringing six large trucks worth over $100,000 each. These are substantial gifts, far more impressive when compared to the value of the wagons and oxen of biblical times.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God’s Vision and Provision
The main point is that when God gives vision and purpose, He also provides the necessary resources. If God truly gives us a vision, He will also supply the provision for it. The experience at the church in Lafayette is shared as an example: the people there are eager to participate in many activities and ministries, wanting to do more than what their available resources seem to allow. However, the underlying belief remains that God’s provision accompanies His vision.
Staying Focused on the Vision
Over time, I have learned that God uses provision to keep us focused on His vision. The problem isn’t that provision is missing for the vision; it’s that we often get involved in extra activities and use resources on things outside the vision. When we spread ourselves too thin, there is no money left for what God initially called us to do.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God wants us to follow the specific vision He has given, rather than attempting to do everything. He provides enough resources for the vision, but not for every idea we might have. When we drift away from God’s direction and pursue other interests, we quickly find ourselves short on funds. This lack of provision helps bring us back to the vision and keeps us on course.
Our church is willing to try anything and do everything, but God’s method is to guide us by supplying provision for the work He assigns explicitly. Whenever God gives someone a vision, He also provides what is needed to accomplish it. Examples from the Bible illustrate this: God gave Noah the vision for the ark and also the means to build it. Moses received the vision for the tabernacle, as well as the materials and labor to complete it. Joshua needed an army, and Solomon needed gold and resources for the temple. Finally, it’s worth considering Jesus Christ’s vision and what He needs to fulfill His purpose.
The Vision of Jesus Christ
The vision of Jesus Christ is the coming and establishing of God’s kingdom on earth. This includes a church without spot or blemish, and bringing all people to the knowledge of Christ. Jesus taught us to pray for God’s kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth. This sums up His vision and purpose.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
The Church’s Role
To fulfill this vision, God will provide the necessary resources. The main provision is the labor of the church, which is intended to be pure and devoted. The church is called to bring the kingdom of God into reality through its work and witness.
The Meaning of Ecclesia
The word “church,” from the Greek “ecclesia,” means a calling out. It refers to people who are called out from the world to gather together. These gatherings are intended to incite or inspire people by the word of God. The church is changed by the word, which acts as a seed sown in people’s hearts and brings transformation.
Teaching and preaching should stir up believers. The word of God should create movement and produce growth, just as leaven changes a whole loaf of bread. What we do in ministering the word is meant to inspire and motivate God’s people toward action and spiritual change.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
When we gather as the church, our purpose is to encourage and motivate each other through the word of God. When one person receives part of God’s word, a part of the kingdom is established in them. As we share the word with others, each person receives that portion of the kingdom, and together, by inciting one another with the word, we help bring God’s kingdom closer.
The church acts as the vessel and instrument for this work. God provides people to the church, drawing them through Jesus Christ, so the church can fulfill its role in establishing the kingdom. This is God’s provision for the church’s vision. For example, having a school is part of the vision to teach and equip children to serve and worship God. Young children can minister and act in faith, showing that the vision and provision are not limited by age.
Structure of God’s People: Israel as a Model
Our individual visions must align with God’s greater vision so that provision will follow. The drawing on page 146 illustrates the structure of Israel: the nation made up of 13 tribes, with Levites in the center, and priests at the very core. The tribes camped around the Levites, who in turn were close to the priests and Tabernacle, demonstrating a deliberate, organized approach to fulfilling God’s vision.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Circles of Commitment
Within the encampment of Israel, the Levites camped near the Tabernacle, and Aaron and his sons, the priests, formed the innermost circle inside the Tabernacle. This arrangement reflects a spiritual truth that is still present today. Most of Israel camped “afar off,” and similarly, most Christians today remain distant in their relationship and involvement.
There was one tribe that camped close to the Tabernacle. In churches, you often see a small group of people who do most of the work, take responsibility, and carry out most of the ministry tasks. Even within this committed group, there is an even closer group.
Kingdom of Priests
Scripture teaches that all believers are called to be a “kingdom of priests” according to Revelation 1:6. However, just as in Israel, while everyone is invited to be close and serve, in practice, most keep their distance, a few draw closer, and some are intimately involved in God’s work.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Exodus 19:6
6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.
God says to Israel, “You shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” Revelation 1:6 confirms that believers today are called to be a kingdom of priests. Paul also teaches that the experiences of Israel serve as examples for us, as written in 1 Corinthians 10 and 11.
Most Christians are not actively engaged in studying God’s Word; they are camped far from the spiritual center. There is always a smaller group that draws closer and takes on the most responsibility in the church—serving, working, and leading. Within this active group, an even smaller circle exists: leaders and elders, who are the true spiritual core. The desire is for everyone to become part of this innermost group, but the reality is that not everyone will.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Support and Provision
In Israel, all priests were Israelites, but not all Israelites were priests. Similarly, all Levites were Israelites, but not all Levites were priests, and all Kohathites were Israelites and Levites, but not all were priests. Understanding these distinctions is essential. In God’s plan, those who are part of the nation support those serving in the tabernacle. The natural blessings from the broader community are meant to provide for those who serve spiritually, financing God’s kingdom and its work.
As we move forward and reflect for the next twenty minutes, the message is that God uses those in the outer circle to bless and support those in the inner circles. This is not a temporary arrangement, but part of God’s plan for financial provision in the kingdom. In every church, most people are further out spiritually, with smaller groups closer to the center, and an even smaller inner circle deeply involved.
Jesus himself had an inner circle, a group that stayed close to him, as well as many followers who remained at a distance. Sometimes, those further away could be easily offended when Jesus taught deeper principles.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Regarding provision, the example of the twelve leaders bringing oxen and carts for the Levites is important. These gifts were meant to support the work of ministry, not for personal use. The resources supplied were intended for serving the congregation.
However, not every blessing or resource received by those serving is meant exclusively for ministry. It is common to question whether every dollar given to a church leader must be spent on the church or the kingdom’s work. Yet, there exists a mentality—often found in churches—that preachers should remain poor or not become wealthy. The familiar phrase, “Lord, you keep them humble and we’ll keep them poor,” reflects this attitude, though it is not restricted to any one denomination.
The Financial Program for God’s Ministry
If you study chapter 18, you will find God’s financial plan for the church and His people. This plan explains how things are supposed to work. Yet, no church today seems to follow it strictly. Many are afraid to implement it as the Bible describes, even though it’s clearly laid out.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
The goal is to encourage you to study how Levites, or those in ministry, were provided for. I want you to understand the biblical method, though I don’t know any church that follows it completely. Most churches compensate their ministers, but not strictly by biblical standards.
Biblical Compensation
One important truth is found in 1 Corinthians 9:13. Paul compares New Testament ministry compensation to that of the Levitical priesthood—not Melchizedek’s priesthood. Scripture says that those who ministered in the temple lived on what the temple provided. Paul states that gospel preachers should “live of the gospel,” just as priests lived at the altar.
Paul draws a direct link between how ministers were provided for in the Old Testament and how ministers of the gospel should be cared for today. This idea may be unfamiliar and even challenging, but it’s essential to recognize and understand it biblically. Ministry compensation should be compared and evaluated according to biblical principles shown in God’s provision for Levites at the altar.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
The second important truth concerns the Levites and their inheritance. Many believe the Levites received no inheritance with Israel, but this idea can be misunderstood. While the land was divided among the twelve tribes in Canaan, with each tribe receiving its own section, similar to small states, Levi did not get a territory.
The Levites’ Inheritance
Instead, the Levites were given 48 cities throughout the land. After dividing up the territory, 48 cities were selected for them. You can read about this in the book of Joshua, chapters 13 through 19. These cities were their inheritance, along with the surrounding pasture lands. Among these cities, six were designated as cities of refuge.
This arrangement meant that while Levites did not have a large state like other tribes, they were still provided for in a meaningful way. The cities and their pasture lands offered a place to live and resources to support their ministry.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Numbers 35:7
7 So all the cities which ye shall give to the Levites shall be forty and eight cities: them shall ye give with their suburbs.
The Levites did not receive a region or state like the other tribes did. Instead, they were given 48 cities along with the suburbs and surrounding lands. These cities allowed the Levites to live among the people and minister where needed. God’s intention was for the Levites to be close to the people to carry out the work of His kingdom.
Looking at their inheritance from another perspective, we see that the Levites actually received a great deal. They did not have a portion of land in Israel, but they were permitted to eat the offerings brought to God. Whenever someone brought their best animal, wine, grain, or any sacrifice, the Levites were the ones who consumed these gifts. The offerings were high quality because people brought their best to God.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
However, Levites had to remain clean and fulfill their ministry duties to be eligible for these privileges. Their inheritance was not material land or wealth, but the offerings made to the Lord and the Lord Himself. The Bible says, “The Lord is their inheritance.” This means they lived from what was given to God, making their blessing directly tied to their service and relationship with Him.
At first, it may seem unfair that the other tribes receive land and property as their inheritance, while the Levites receive only the Lord. The Bible clearly states, “The Lord is his inheritance.” While the other tribes enjoy their own fertile land, which is their livelihood, the Levites live off what God provides for them. Their inheritance is not land, but a direct relationship and provision from God.
This means Levites depend on God for their needs, rather than on a physical inheritance. The idea challenges the belief that preachers should be poor. In reality, having a prosperous preacher can be better, because a preacher who knows how to prosper can teach others to do the same. If a leader can pay his bills and thrive, he is better equipped to teach others practical principles for life.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Offerings and Tithes
Deuteronomy 18:1-2
1 The priests the Levites, and all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they shall eat the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and his inheritance.
2 Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren: the LORD is their inheritance, as he hath said unto them.
When you study Deuteronomy 18:1, it becomes clear that while all other tribes lived off the land and their inheritance, the Levites lived off the Lord’s provision. People brought offerings to God, and God, in turn, gave much of those offerings to the Levites. For example, when sacrifices were brought, a portion was burned for the Lord, and the rest went to the Levites. The Levites received three parts of the sacrifice, while the Lord received one.
Deuteronomy explains that Levites ate the offerings given to the Lord and lived off what was dedicated to Him. They had no portion of land and no inheritance among other tribes because the Lord Himself was their inheritance.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Calculation of Tithes
If you look at how tithing worked, every tribe gave ten percent, or a tithe, to the Levites. If each tribe started with 100 percent and gave 10 percent, they kept 90 percent. With twelve tribes tithing, the Levites received twelve tithes—120 percent. The Levites would then tithe 10 percent from what they received, leaving them with 110 percent, which is more than the individual tribes had left.
This financial system is not used by churches today. The example shows that Levites, or ministers, were provided for abundantly in God’s design. The passage encourages a reevaluation of how church finances and provision for ministry are handled.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Numbers 3:50-51
50 Of the firstborn of the children of Israel took he the money; a thousand three hundred and threescore and five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary:
51 And Moses gave the money of them that were redeemed unto Aaron and to his sons, according to the word of the LORD, as the LORD commanded Moses.
Redemption Money
The fourth reason highlights another benefit for the Levites. When the Israelites redeemed their firstborn, they paid a specific amount of money, calculated according to the “shekel of the sanctuary.” The Levites themselves determined the value of this shekel, setting the price for redemption.
Whenever an animal was the firstborn, if it was clean, it was sacrificed and Aaron ate it, except for portions that were completely burned. If the animal was unclean, a price was set according to the sanctuary shekel. Aaron decided the redemption price for these animals. In the case of a firstborn person, a set amount of gold or silver was paid, again calculated by the Levites. All this money went to the Levites.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
This arrangement shows that God made sure the Levites had financial support. Besides food from the offerings, they had money and places to live. God provided for their practical needs, not just spiritually, but materially as well. The following, fifth reason, is described as something seldom discussed and is approached with caution and openness.
Numbers 18:24
24 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer as an heave offering unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance.
Numbers 18:24 explains that the inheritance of the Levites was the tithe given by the children of Israel. These tithes were offered as gifts to the Lord, but God gave them to the Levites to support and provide for their needs. This was in place of a land inheritance, making the tithe a crucial part of God’s care for those who served in ministry.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God made it clear that He would look after those who labored at the sanctuary—those who took care of the altar, served, and ministered to people. Their inheritance was not land or possessions, but God’s direct provision. The message emphasizes that God always takes care of those who dedicate themselves fully to serving Him and His people.
The Levites’ Inheritance
The Levites were considered especially blessed. They not only received cities, suburbs, and pasturelands, but also had the right to sell these properties. However, according to the law of Jubilee, any property sold by the Levites would revert back to them. This ensured their permanent provision, demonstrating the completeness of God’s plan for those devoted to ministry.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Leviticus 25:33-34
33 And if a man purchase of the Levites, then the house that was sold, and the city of his possession, shall go out in the year of jubile: for the houses of the cities of the Levites are their possession among the children of Israel.
34 But the field of the suburbs of their cities may not be sold; for it is their perpetual possession.
They ate from the altar offerings and sacrifices of the people. This would be the best meat, the best bread, the best wine, the best everything. They were not to go without gold and silver. The Lord gave the redemption money to the Levites and Aaron in particular.
Numbers 18:11-14
11 And this is thine; the heave offering of their gift, with all the wave offerings of the children of Israel: I have given them unto thee, and to thy sons and to thy daughters with thee, by a statute for ever: every one that is clean in thy house shall eat of it.
12 All the best of the oil, and all the best of the wine, and of the wheat, the firstfruits of them which they shall offer unto the LORD, them have I given thee.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
13 And whatsoever is first ripe in the land, which they shall bring unto the LORD, shall be thine; every one that is clean in thine house shall eat of it.
14 Every thing devoted in Israel shall be thine.
Numbers 18:11-14 teaches that the heave offerings, wave offerings, and all the best gifts given by the children of Israel were assigned to the Levites and their families. This arrangement was set as a statute “forever,” meaning it continues indefinitely. Anyone in the house of Levi who remained ceremonially clean was allowed to partake of these offerings.
The Best of All Offerings
The Levites received the best oil, wine, wheat, and the first fruits that were offered to God. Everything given to the Lord belonged to the Levites as their inheritance. The principle was that total devotion in offerings resulted in a blessing for the ministry.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
The message is clear that God’s design was for ministers to be compensated well, not for personal gain, but to ensure that those serving at the altar would be blessed. This provision also meant that people supporting the ministry would share in those blessings, reinforcing a cycle of generosity and spiritual reward.
Numbers 18:24-27
24 But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer as an heave offering unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance.
25 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
26 Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, even a tenth part of the tithe.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
27 And this your heave offering shall be reckoned unto you, as though it were the corn of the threshingfloor, and as the fulness of the winepress.
If a preacher is not well provided for, the ministry may suffer in quality. The intention is not self-serving, but to highlight the biblical standard and encourage everyone to consider it. Numbers 18 is crucial for understanding God’s financial plan for the ministry. The chapter explains that the tithes and offerings of Israel were given to the Levites as their inheritance, so they would not need land or worldly distractions. Their focus should always be on serving God’s people.
The Levites were expected to tithe from what they received, just as the people did. Unfortunately, many ministers today do not practice tithing themselves even as they encourage others to do so. God’s system required the Levites to offer a tenth of what they received, and Aaron likewise offered a tenth of his portion directly to the Lord, which was entirely consumed on the altar.
This system ensured that everyone, including those who ministered, took part in the spiritual discipline of giving. It emphasized that what the Levites received was considered as if they had worked for it themselves. Through faithful giving and tithing, both ministers and people could share in the blessings and responsibilities of God’s kingdom.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
The Requirement to Remain Clean
To receive God’s provision as a minister, there are requirements: Levites had to stay ceremonially clean and devote themselves to serving at the Tabernacle. God calls His ministers to maintain purity and faithfully carry out their assigned duties.
Prosperity by Design
In God’s design, the Levites could be the most prosperous of all the tribes. With 13 tribes total, the 12 non-Levite tribes each gave a tithe of 10 percent. This meant the Levites received a combined total equal to 120 percent, while each of the other tribes kept 90 percent. Levites then gave 10 percent to the Lord, leaving them with 110 percent by comparison.
The Principle of Blessing in Ministry
God cares for all His children equally, but those who serve and keep themselves holy are positioned to receive greater blessings. The principle is clear: God rewards those who diligently minister, serve, and care for His work. While He loves everyone, extra blessings are given to those who labor faithfully.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God’s provision for ministry is generous, not meager. He desires for His servants—and all His people—to have the best. Cheap provision results in cheap ministry, but when ministry is blessed and prosperous, the people it serves will thrive as well. Faithful service attracts God’s best, and those who put their effort into ministry receive abundant blessings.
Abuse and Accountability
There can be abuses in ministry, but when a ministry truly lays down its life, stays clean, serves faithfully, and helps equip others, it becomes a special gift to the congregation. According to Ephesians 4:8, God gives gifts to His people, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers.
A Minister’s Prayer and Call
A minister’s prayer should be to remain dedicated to serving others, to stay spiritually clean, and to always be available when needed. True ministry involves working hard in the Word and in prayer, and being present at important moments like hospitals or funerals. It is not wrong to ask for support if the work is genuine and dedicated, because a good ministry requires honest labor and resources.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
God’s Love and Blessing
God’s love extends to everyone, but special blessings come to those who remain close to Him and dedicate themselves to ministry. The more people give themselves to serve God, the more He blesses them. Dedication and closeness to God lead to greater blessings, and it is impossible to out-give Him. Faithful service brings fruit, and sincere prayer asks God to make the message take root and produce good outcomes in people’s lives.
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Book Of Numbers 7:1-13: How to Provision the Lord’s Ministry
Other Related Sermons:
Also see: