Commentary on Deuteronomy 18:3

Verse: "And this shall be the priest's due from the people, from them that offer a sacrifice, whether it be ox or sheep; and they shall give unto the priest the shoulder, and the two cheeks, and the maw."

Introduction

The passage concerning the priest's due offers significant insights into the nature of sacred service and the relationship between the worshipping community and its leaders. The commentary from various public domain sources provides a deeper understanding of this verse, as it highlights the principles of gratitude, provision, and the sacred duties of the priests in service to God and the people.

Contextual Overview

In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses reiterates the laws given to Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This particular verse falls within a section outlining the rights and responsibilities of the Levitical priesthood. The charge to Israel is not only to observe the law but also to support those who lead them spiritually.

Moses' Instruction

Moses, the human mediator between God and the Israelites, bids them to recognize the essential role of the priests. This segment of the law points to God’s provision for those who serve in sacred roles, illustrating that ministry comes with legitimate rights and expectations.

Exegesis and Insights from Commentators

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Henry emphasizes the importance of reciprocal responsibilities between the priests and the people. He notes that the offerings designated to the priests signify respect and acknowledgment of their service. The shoulder, cheeks, and maw symbolize both the sustenance that keeps the priests nourished and the honor due to them as intermediaries between God and man.

• Albert Barnes' Notes

  Barnes points out that this passage illustrates the provision God made for the support of the Levites. The specific mention of the shoulder and cheeks points to the priest being provided with choice portions. He also discusses the broader theological implications of sacrificial worship, observing that the act of sacrifice is deeply rooted in relationship—both vertically (with God) and horizontally (with community).

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Clarke provides a thorough lexical analysis of the terms found within this verse. He asserts that the portions prescribed to the priests were not merely for sustenance but also for the symbolic representation of their sacred duties. Clarke's insights focus on the priestly role as a divine institution, which mandates respect and support from the community.

Theological Implications

This passage illustrates vital theological themes relevant to the Church today. Firstly, it establishes a precedent for pastoral support and the need for congregational responsibility towards spiritual leaders. Secondly, it reflects God’s provision for those who are dedicated to His service, indicating that while spiritual leaders are to serve others, they also have needs that must be tended to by the community.

Principles of Support

The pastoral role is multifaceted, involving teaching, leading, and shepherding the community. As such, the Church should reflect on how they support their leaders—financially, emotionally, and spiritually. The command to provide portions to the priests teaches that the laborer is worthy of their hire (1 Timothy 5:18).

Worship Through Offering

Moreover, the concept of sacrificial giving is embedded in this verse. The offering is not only a means of support but also acts as an essential means of worship. Through giving, the people participate in a cycle of worship that acknowledges God's provision and reaffirms their covenant relationship with Him. This underscores the transformative power of communal worship in which both offerings and offerings recipients are honored.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 18:3 serves as a profound reminder of the relationship between the worshipping community and its leaders. The reflections from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke reinforce the idea that ministry is both a vocation and a calling, sustained by the covenant community through mutual respect and support. As contemporary believers reflect on their practices, they are encouraged to deepen their understanding of stewardship and support within the body of Christ.