First Fruit History & Biblical Overview
The Historical Context of First Fruits
What are First Fruits? The significance of this holy day, like most other biblical festivals can be largely understood by its name. First Fruits is one of the shelosh regalim, the three festivals for which every Jewish male goes to Jerusalem if possible (Deut. 16:16). First Fruits is included in this exclusive list. It is prophetically significant in God’s plan for his people.
God’s faithfulness is providing the early wheat harvest increases hopefulness for an abundant fall harvest (Sukkot). Giving thanks for present provision leads to faith for future addition. (Leviticus 2:12)
The last day of the Unleavened Bread is the celebration of the First Fruits (Yom Ha Bikkurim); taking to the Temple the first fruits, the first born animal, the first the first sheaf of barley, it is symbolic of Jesus being the first of the First Fruits. (1 Corinthians 15:23)
When is it given? The feast of the first fruits was held consecutively on the fourteenth, fifteenth, and sixteenth days of the first month of the Jewish calendar.
How is it given? Leviticus 23:9-10
Why did they do it?
God claims the first fruits of everything. He has first claim on our lives. (Leviticus 23:9-24)
- Honors God
- Sets you up for blessings (Exodus 49:30)
- Required (Exodus 22:29, Nehemiah 10:35, 2 Chronicles 31:5)
- Jesus didn’t change it in the New Testament
The Impact of First Fruits
- Makes the whole holy (Romans 11:16)
- Pleases God (Jeremiah 2:3)
- Power of first fruits (Genesis 4:3-14 Cain and Abel)
- Results of First Fruit/Tithing
- Barns filled & overflowing (Proverbs 3:9-10)
- Rebuke the devourer (Malachi 3:11)
- Invoke the supernatural (Malachi 3:10)
- Eliminates the fear of giving.
- You planting and receiving/harvesting reinforces order in the earth. (1 Timothy 6:5-10)
- Enhances contentment (1 Timothy 6:5-10)
- Blessings for the giver (Ezekiel 44:30)
- Increases faith (Philippians 4:10-19)