(Bible references from ESV)

We need to practice generosity.
Consumption assumption: Whatever comes to me is for me.

We acknowledge God’s provision by giving Him the first of our income.

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When you come into the land that I give you and reap its harvest, you shall bring the sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest, and he shall wave the sheaf before the LORD…” —Leviticus 23:9-11

Our “first” offering is part of our thankfulness, worship and devotion.
And on the day when you wave the sheaf, you shall offer a male lamb a year old without blemish as a burnt offering to the Lord. And the grain offering with it shall be two tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil, a food offering to the Lord with a pleasing aroma, and the drink offering with it shall be of wine, a fourth of a hin. —Leviticus 23:12-13

This principle of firstfruits is Pre-Law.

…and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. —Genesis 4:4-5

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.) And he blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!” And Abram gave him a tenth of everything. —Genesis 14:18-20

This principle of firstfruits is Post-Law.

“The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice!” —Matthew 23:2-3b

Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!” —Matthew 23:23-24

Jesus teaches firstfruits giving.

Take home truth

Firstfruits giving is an act of worship to show thankfulness and devotion.

Study Guide

1. Why did God build a firstfruit offering into the seven feasts?
   

2. How is the concept of firstfruit an issue of trusting God?
   

3. In what ways do you see the Principle of Firstfruits in the Old Testament and New Testament being displayed?
   

4. Is the Principle of Firstfruits still valid and relevant for New Testament believers? Why or why not?
   

5. What is one step God is asking you to take as a result of this series?
   

6. “Pursue God, pursue others, and practice His ways” is our new mission statement. How does the concept of firstfruits apply?
   

Prayer