• Download Video
• Download Audio
• Print
• Email
• Save As PDF

The Law of the Firstborn

Text: Deuteronomy 15:19-23; Exodus 13:1-2, 11-15
3 July 2018

THE LAW OF THE FIRSTBORN

1. This was first taught   (Exodus 13:1-2, 11-15)

a) Before Israel was delivered from Egypt

b) Before the slaying of all firstborn males in Egypt

2. Essential thoughts

a) First-born males to be consecrated to the Lord   (Exodus 13:1)

b) The Lord declared “They are Mine”   (Exodus 13:2)

c) To be practised when Israel entered Canaan   (Exodus 13:11)

d) Firstborn animals to be included   (Exodus 13:11-12)

i) To be set apart for the Lord   (Exodus 13:12)

ii) A donkey may be redeemed with a lamb   (Exodus 13:13)

iii) The donkey is to be slain otherwise   (Exodus 13:13)

e) Redemption of the first-born male   (Exodus 13:14)

f) Meaning of Redemption to be explained

i) To remember how Go saved the firstborn male   (Exodus 13:14-15)

ii) Therefore, all first-born males must be consecrated   (Exodus 13:15)

iii) This is a special sign to be remembered forever   (Exodus 13:16)

EXPLANATION OF THE LAW OF THE FIRSTBORN

1. Firstborn

a) Donkey: Not to be put to work for the owner   (Deuteronomy 15:19)

b) Sheep: Not to be sheared

2. For it is consecrated to the Lord

3. Firstborn to be offered on the altar of sacrifice and its flesh consumed   (Deuteronomy 15:20)

4. But it cannot be offered if it has any blemish   (Deuteronomy 15:21)

5. The animal must be slain and be eaten   (Deuteronomy 15:22)

6. The blood must be drained and consumed   (Deuteronomy 15:23)