March 20, 2025
The Principle of First Fruit Offering
Secret of Overwhelming Blessing
Exodus 23:19
“Bring the best of the first fruits of your soil to the house of the Lord your God.”
The Bible offers boundless provisions for human comfort and eternal blessings. However, the key limitation to accessing these benefits is man’s reluctance to obey God’s word.
As reaffirmed in 3 John 2, God desires prosperity and health for His people, yet He grants free will, allowing individuals to access His blessings through total obedience.
Definition of the principle of First Fruits
- The principle of first fruits involves offering the first and best of one’s resources to God as an expression of gratitude, trust, and faith.
2. The Hebrew term “bikkurim” signifies “the first of the ripened crops or fruits.” This biblical concept remains relevant today as a means of prioritizing God in our lives and strengthening our relationship with Him.
Biblical Basis of the Principle of First Fruits
Throughout Scripture, the principle of first fruits is evident:
Genesis 4:4 – Abel’s offering of the firstborn of his flock was accepted by God.
Exodus 23:19 – God commanded Israel to bring the first fruits of their harvest as an offering.
Proverbs 3:9-10 – Encourages honoring the Lord with the first fruits of one’s wealth.
Ezekiel 44:30 – Levites were instructed to bring the first fruits to the priests, symbolizing devotion to God.
Understanding the difference between Tithes, Offerings, and First Fruits
Tithes – A mandatory 10% of income dedicated to the church.
Offerings – Voluntary gifts given beyond the tithe for specific purposes.
First Fruits Offerings – The first and best portion of one’s income or resources given to God as a demonstration of faith and gratitude.
The Significance of First Fruit Offerings
God revealed the secret of overwhelming blessings to Israel through Moses, emphasizing the importance of first fruit offerings in multiple instances (Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). Strict obedience to this command was reiterated in Exodus 23:19 and Leviticus 23:10, underscoring that victory and prosperity should not overshadow obedience.
Purpose and Benefits of Giving First Fruits
- Expressing Gratitude and Trust – Demonstrates appreciation for God’s provisions and reliance on His continued blessings.
- Prioritizing God – Establishes Him as the foremost priority in one’s life.
- Honoring God with Resources – Acknowledges that all possessions originate from Him.
- Unlocking Blessings and Abundance – Opens doors for divine favor and provision.
To Whom Should We Give First Fruits?
To God – As an act of devotion, gratitude, and faith.
To Spiritual Leaders – Following biblical precedent (Ezekiel 44:30), first fruits can be given to those who minister to us, such as pastors and missionaries.
Applying the Principle of First Fruits
- Practical Steps – Identify what qualifies as first fruits, plan the offering, and give cheerfully.
- Overcoming Challenges – Trusting in God’s provision despite financial concerns.
- Cultivating a Culture of First Fruits Giving – Encouraging generosity within families and communities through personal example.
Call to action to apply the principle of first fruits in our lives
We are called to put God first in our lives and honor Him with our resources by giving our first fruits.
Let us commit to embracing this biblical principle and experiencing the blessings that come from faithful giving.
Conclusion
The principle of first fruits is a biblical command that emphasizes giving the first and best to God as a demonstration of faith and gratitude. It differs from tithes and offerings but plays a crucial role in supporting God’s work. By committing to this practice, believers position themselves for divine blessings and a closer relationship with God. Let us embrace this principle and experience the transformative power of faithful giving.