Throughout the Bible, the concept of “first fruits” carries deep spiritual meaning. It represents priority, gratitude, trust, and honor toward God. In ancient Israel, first fruits were the first portion of crops or produce given to the Lord as an offering.
But first fruits is more than agriculture—it reflects the condition of the heart.
“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” — Proverbs 3:9
Let’s explore what first fruits in the Bible truly means and why it still matters today.
What Does “First Fruits” Mean in the Bible?
In Scripture, first fruits refers to:
- The first portion of harvest given to God
- An act of gratitude and worship
- A demonstration of trust in God’s provision
- A symbol of dedication and priority
- A prophetic picture fulfilled in Christ
“Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the LORD your God.” — Exodus 23:19
First fruits was never about leftovers—it was about giving God the first and best.
Key Scriptures About First Fruits in the Bible
🌾 First Fruits in the Old Testament
- “Bring the best of the firstfruits.” — Exodus 23:19
- “The firstfruits of all that you produce belong to the LORD.” — Exodus 13:12
- “You shall bring the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest.” — Leviticus 23:10
- “The first of all the firstfruits shall be the priest’s.” — Ezekiel 44:30
- “The Israelites brought a great amount, the firstfruits of grain.” — 2 Chronicles 31:5
- “You shall declare before the LORD your God.” — Deuteronomy 26:3
🌿 First Fruits as Trust and Honor
- “Honor the LORD with your wealth.” — Proverbs 3:9
- “Then your barns will be filled.” — Proverbs 3:10
- “The LORD will open the heavens.” — Deuteronomy 28:12
- “Give, and it will be given to you.” — Luke 6:38
- “Seek first his kingdom.” — Matthew 6:33
- “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
✝️ Jesus as the First Fruits
In the New Testament, first fruits takes on powerful meaning through Christ.
- “Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” — 1 Corinthians 15:20
- “But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits.” — 1 Corinthians 15:23
- “You are a kind of firstfruits of all he created.” — James 1:18
- “They were purchased… offered as firstfruits.” — Revelation 14:4
Jesus is called the first fruits because His resurrection guarantees future resurrection for believers.
🌱 Spiritual Application of First Fruits
- “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” — Romans 12:1
- “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
- “Commit your way to the LORD.” — Psalm 37:5
- “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21
- “My son, give me your heart.” — Proverbs 23:26
- “Trust in the LORD with all your heart.” — Proverbs 3:5
Why First Fruits Matters Today
While believers are no longer under Old Testament ceremonial law, the principle remains powerful:
- Give God your first time of the day
- Prioritize Him financially
- Offer your best effort
- Dedicate your decisions to Him
- Put spiritual life before worldly pursuits
First fruits is about priority.
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” — Matthew 6:33
How to Practice the First Fruits Principle
Here are practical ways to live out first fruits today:
- Begin each day with prayer
- Tithe or give generously
- Serve God before personal gain
- Offer your talents to Him
- Thank God before enjoying provision
Giving first demonstrates trust.
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse.” — Malachi 3:10
FAQ: First Fruits in the Bible
What does first fruits mean spiritually?
It represents giving God the first and best as an act of worship and trust.
Is first fruits the same as tithing?
They are related but distinct. First fruits refers to the first portion; tithe refers to a tenth.
Why is Jesus called the first fruits?
Because His resurrection guarantees the resurrection of believers.
Do Christians still practice first fruits?
The principle of priority and dedication continues spiritually.
What is the main lesson of first fruits?
Put God first in every area of life.
Final Reflection
First fruits in the Bible teaches a simple but powerful truth: God deserves first place. When we give Him priority, we express trust in His provision and gratitude for His goodness.
It is not about obligation—it is about devotion.
“Honor the LORD with your wealth.” — Proverbs 3:9
When God is first, everything else finds its proper place.
