568 - Gifts for the Priests and Levites

Gifts for the Priests and Levites

These are the commands of the Lord, in the book of Deuteronomy Chapter 18: verses 1–8…

“Remember that the Levitical priests—that is, the whole of the tribe of Levi—will receive no allotment of land, among the other tribes in Israel. 

Instead, the priests and Levites will eat from the special gifts, given to the Lord, for that is their share. 

They will have no land of their own, among the Israelites. 

The Lord Himself is their special possession, just as He promised them. 

“These are the parts, that the priests may claim, as their share, from the cattle, sheep, and goats, that the people bring, as offerings: the shoulder, the cheeks, and the stomach. 

You must also give, to the priests, the first share, of the grain, the new wine, the olive oil, and the wool at shearing time. 

For the Lord, your God, chose the tribe of Levi, out of all your tribes, to minister, in the Lord’s name, forever. 

“Suppose a Levite chooses to move, from his town, in Israel, wherever he is living, to the place, that the Lord chooses for worship. 

He may minister there, in the name of the Lord, his God, just like all his fellow Levites, who are serving the Lord there. 

He may eat his share, of the sacrifices and offerings, even if he also receives support from his family. 

—————————————-

Although we no longer have a need for earthly priests or Levites, Jesus did command that those who preach the gospel should “live from the gospel.” We see this demonstrated, when Jesus sends out the seventy-two, in pairs, to preach. 

Prior to their departure, Jesus gave them these instructions,

‘When you enter a house, first say, “Peace to this house”. . . 

“Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. “

(These are Jesus’ words, from the Gospel of Luke 10:5-7)

This statement gives us some insights:

  • Those who have been sent out by Christ to proclaim His message are called “workers.” …and
  • All workers deserve wages for their labor… though the concept of wages, here, is connected to lodging, food, and drink.

Likewise, in the Gospels of Matthew and mark, we see Jesus telling the Twelve, “Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or staff, for the laborer deserves his food. (Matthew 10:9-10 …and Mark 6:8-9)

Based on these instructions, Jesus expected His disciples to be provided for, while they were carrying out His mission.

So, let us not forget: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (This was Paul’s message in his letter to the Romans 10:14-15)

The word of God for God’s people.

Praise be to God!



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