Understanding Deuteronomy 14:27

Verse Reference: Deuteronomy 14:27

"And the Levite that is within thy gates, thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee."

Meaning and Interpretation

This verse underscores the importance of supporting the Levites among the Israelite community. Levites, who were designated as the priestly tribe, had no land of their own, and their sustenance depended on the offerings and support from the rest of the Israelites.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that the verse emphasizes the duty of the Israelites to care for the Levites. He emphasizes that since the Levites were set apart for religious duties and lacked their own inheritance, it was crucial for the normal families of Israel to provide for them. This teaching emphasizes collective responsibility and community support within the faith community.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes highlights that this verse reaffirms the principles established earlier in the Law regarding the sustenance of those ministering to God. The Levites not only performed important religious duties but they were also essential for the spiritual well-being of the entire nation. Failing to support them would reflect a practical, community-wide neglect of spiritual responsibilities.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke stresses the significance of taking care of the Levites. He further explains that neglecting the Levites would lead to a breakdown in worship and sacred practices among the people. The Levites were objects of charity and their well-being was directly connected to the people's faithfulness to God.

Thematic Connections

The broader theme of supporting the ministry appears throughout the Scriptures. The verse not only conveys a practical instruction but also reflects God's concern for the upkeep of His servants:

• Deuteronomy 12:12: "And ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God, ye, and your sons, and your daughters, and your menservants, and your maidservants, and the Levite that is within your gates; forasmuch as he hath no part nor inheritance with you."
• Numbers 18:21: "And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation."
• Leviticus 27:30: "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD's: it is holy unto the LORD."
• 1 Corinthians 9:14: "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel."
• Hebrews 7:5: "And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law."
• Malachi 3:10: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it."
• Acts 6:1: "And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration."

Connecting Themes Across the Scriptures

This verse exemplifies the connections that exist between Old and New Testament themes regarding communal responsibility and support for those in ministry. From the duties assigned to the Levites to the teachings in the New Testament concerning pastoral care and support, the Bible consistently emphasizes the necessity of mutual support within the body of believers.

The Role of Cross-Referencing in Understanding Scripture

Understanding verses like Deuteronomy 14:27 is enhanced through cross-referencing biblical texts. Here are some tools and methods for effective cross-referencing:

• Bible Concordance: A tool that lists words and phrases along with their respective scripture references.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: A systematic approach to finding related verses within the biblical text.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Incorporates diverse scriptures to gain a holistic perspective of biblical themes.
• Bible Chain References: A method of following a pre-established path through connected verses.
• How to Use Bible Cross-References: Understanding how to locate themes and verses that support belief or teaching.

Conclusion

The study of Deuteronomy 14:27 brings forth not only a clear command for the Israelites but also a rich theological connection to contemporary Christian practice regarding the support of church leaders and ministries. By engaging in cross-referencing these themes with other scriptures, believers can deepen their understanding and appreciation of God's design for unity and support within His community.

Related Bible Verses

Those exploring Deuteronomy 14:27 may also find the following verses helpful in their studies:

• Exodus 22:28
• Luke 10:7
• Philippians 4:15-19
• 1 Timothy 5:17-18
• James 1:27