Numbers 28:3
And thou shalt say unto them, This is the offering made by fire which ye shall offer unto the LORD; two lambs of the first year without spot day by day, for a continual burnt offering.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
This daily sacrifice continued from tabernacle through both temples until 70 AD destruction. The morning sacrifice occurred about 9 AM, evening about 3 PM - the hours Jesus was crucified and died, showing Christ's death fulfilling this typology. Each lamb was accompanied by grain offering and drink offering (v.5-8), making a complete meal offered to God - symbolizing full dedication. The expense of providing two perfect lambs daily showed worship's priority and cost. Post-70 AD, Judaism replaced physical sacrifices with prayers at these hours. Christians see fulfillment in Christ whose one sacrifice replaced daily offerings, though we maintain principle of regular daily worship.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you maintain daily rhythm of worship, beginning and ending days in God's presence?
- How does Christ as the spotless Lamb fulfilling daily sacrifices deepen your worship and gratitude?
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Analysis & Commentary
God commands: 'This is the offering made by fire which ye shall offer unto the LORD; two lambs of the first year without spot day by day, for a continual burnt offering.' The daily sacrifice - one lamb morning, one evening (v.4) - maintained perpetual worship. The Hebrew 'tamid' (continual/regular) emphasizes unceasing devotion. The spotless lambs typified Christ, the Lamb without blemish (1 Pet 1:19). The twice-daily pattern established rhythm of worship bookending each day - beginning and ending in God's presence. This foreshadows believers' continual access to God through Christ's once-for-all sacrifice (Heb 10:10-14) and need for daily devotion (morning and evening prayer/worship).