NOTES: Wednesday Bible Session about First Fruits

 


Difference Between Tithes, Offerings, and First Fruits

I. Tithes

  • Tithes are 10% of income given to God.

  • Symbol of obedience, faith, and trust.

  • Scripture: Malachi 3:10 – “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse... and see if I will not open for you the windows of heaven.”

II. Offerings

  • Freewill gifts given beyond the tithe.

  • Often used to help others or support the church.

  • Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each one should give as he has decided... not reluctantly... for God loves a cheerful giver.”

III. First Fruits

  • Annual gift given from the first and best.

  • Represents faith, gratitude, and the beginning of blessings.

  • Scripture: Proverbs 3:9–10 – “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits... then your barns will be filled to overflowing.”

[1] What Are First Fruits

A. Symbolic Meaning

  • Marks the beginning of a new season spiritually.

  • Represents gratitude and trust in future blessings.

B. Biblical Origins

  • Based on the spring Feast of Firstfruits (Leviticus 23:10–11).

  • People brought first grain sheaves to the priest.

  • Waving the sheaf symbolized offering the first to God.

C. Spiritual Reset

  • Giving first fruits is like a fresh spiritual start.

  • Scripture: Proverbs 3:9 – “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.”

D. Jesus as Firstfruits

  • Jesus rose on the Feast of Firstfruits.

  • He is called the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

  • Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:20–23 – Christ is the firstfruits; then those who belong to Him.

E. Timing and God’s Plan

  • Jesus died during Passover and rose on Sunday, the day of Firstfruits.

  • This timing fulfills prophecy and shows divine perfection.

F. Connection to Easter

  • Easter follows Passover just like Firstfruits did.

  • Jesus is the firstfruit of a great harvest of believers.

  • Romans 8:23 – We have the firstfruits of the Spirit and await full adoption.

[2] Ceremony

A. The Tallit (Prayer Shawl)

  • Represents spiritual closeness and holy covering.

  • Used by Pastor Jose during offering to symbolize God’s presence.

B. The Hand Gesture

  • One hand under: support and stewardship.

  • One hand over: blessing and protection.

  • Symbolizes partnership between heaven and earth.

C. Prayer During Offering

  • Giving thanks and asking God to bless the offering.

  • Sets the gift apart as holy and meaningful.

[3] Waving – Presenting to the Lord

A. The Action

  • Waving the offering symbolizes giving it directly to God.

  • Represents gratitude and acknowledgment of God’s provision.

B. The Meaning

  • Like a spiritual thank-you card.

  • Reflects harvest traditions and faith in continued blessings.

  • Often accompanied by prayer for blessing and purpose.

[4] Emotion of Presenting First Fruits

A. Joy and Anticipation

  • Giving with hope and excitement, like kids at Christmas.

B. Trust and Faith

  • Believing God will bring the rest, even during hard times.

C. Gratitude

  • Giving not to get, but to say thank you.

  • Celebrated with music, praise, and dancing.

D. Spiritual Priority

  • Reminds us to put God first before material things.

E. Hope in Uncertain Times

  • Even when things are tight, giving first fruits builds faith and opens doors.

Summary: What Is First Fruit?

  • Definition: First part of the harvest that ripens.

  • Biblical Meaning: Hebrew word bikkurim means “promise to come.”

  • Spiritual Lessons:

    • Shows obedience and trust.

    • Thanks God for what He has given.

    • Plants a seed for future blessing.

    • Makes God a top priority.

    • Builds spiritual growth and maturity.



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