Meaning of Exodus 29:28

This verse, Exodus 29:28, establishes a perpetual ordinance regarding the priestly portions of sacrifices offered by the Israelites. It specifies that a designated portion of the fellowship offerings, which were voluntary sacrifices signifying communion with God and with one another, was to be permanently allocated to Aaron and his descendants, the Levitical priests. This was not merely a payment for services rendered but a divinely instituted system that recognized and sustained the priestly class, who mediated between God and the people. The phrase "perpetual share" emphasizes the enduring nature of this provision, intended to continue throughout Israel's history as a tangible expression of their covenant relationship and their acknowledgment of God's appointed mediators. The "contribution the Israelites are to make to the Lord from their fellowship offerings" highlights that these portions were considered a sacred offering to the Lord, even though they were physically given to the priests.

Context and Background

This verse is situated within the detailed instructions for the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests in Exodus 29. Following the construction of the tabernacle and the elaborate rituals for its dedication, God outlines the ongoing sacrificial system and the roles of the priesthood. The fellowship offering (Hebrew: shelamim, often translated as peace offering or thanksgiving offering) was a significant category of voluntary sacrifice. It involved a burnt offering portion, a grain offering, and then portions for the priests and the offerer to eat, symbolizing shared fellowship with God. Exodus 29:28 specifically addresses the priestly portion of this offering.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Provision for the Priesthood: God Himself institutes the means by which His appointed priests are to be supported. This underscores that the ministry of the priesthood is divinely sanctioned and provided for.
• Sacredness of Offerings: Even the portions designated for the priests are still considered an offering to the Lord. This prevents the priests from viewing their portion as mere personal gain, but rather as something consecrated to God.
• Perpetual Ordinance: The term "perpetual" signifies an eternal or enduring command, intended to be observed throughout Israel's history until its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
• Fellowship and Communion: The context of the fellowship offering links this priestly portion to the broader theme of communal worship and reconciliation with God.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This ordinance points to the principle that those who serve God in ministry should be supported by the community they serve. It highlights the sacredness of this support, which is to be seen as an act of worship to God. Spiritually, it foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who is both the sacrifice and the one who provides for His spiritual priesthood, the church. The church, in turn, is called to support those who minister the Word and sacraments.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This passage is a crucial element in the establishment of the Old Testament sacrificial and priestly system, which served as a shadow and type of Christ. The perpetual nature of this provision for Aaron and his sons points forward to the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament. The concept of a divinely appointed mediator and the sustenance of that mediation are central themes that run throughout Scripture.

Analogies

One analogy for this system is a modern-day church supporting its ministers. The offerings of the congregation are given to God, and a portion is designated for the pastor's salary and the upkeep of the ministry. While the pastor receives the financial benefit, the entire act is understood as an offering to God for the furtherance of His work. Another analogy might be found in a family where parents provide for their children; here, God provides for His priestly family through the people He has entrusted to their care.

Relation to Other Verses

• Leviticus 7:31-34: This passage further elaborates on the priestly portions of the fellowship offering, specifically mentioning the breast and the right thigh as the portion belonging to Aaron and his sons.
• Numbers 18:8-20: This chapter reiterates God's provision for the Levites and priests, emphasizing that their inheritance is the Lord Himself, and they are to receive portions of the offerings.
• Hebrews 7:1-28: This New Testament passage contrasts the Levitical priesthood with the eternal priesthood of Melchizedek, exemplified by Jesus Christ. It implicitly shows how the Old Testament system was temporary, pointing to a superior reality. The temporary provision for Aaron finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's everlasting provision for His people.
• 1 Corinthians 9:13-14: The Apostle Paul draws a parallel, arguing that those who serve in the temple (referring to spiritual service) should live from the offerings, just as the Lord commanded. This verse explicitly connects the Old Testament principle to the support of New Testament ministers.