Bible Pathways 2/3/2004
Read Leviticus 7 -- 8
In Today's Reading:
Regulations concerning offerings; consecration of Aaron and his sons for the priesthood, and the priests' offerings
The peace offering was the only offering shared by three parties. First: The priest shall burn the fat upon the altar: but the breast shall be Aaron's and his sons'. And the right shoulder you shall give to the priest for a heave (lifted up and waved before the Lord as a gift) offering of the sacrifices of your peace offerings (Leviticus 7:31-32). All that was left was eaten by the offerer and his family. The sacrifice for the peace offering was to be a bull or a ram (3:1-9; 9:3-4). Birds were not acceptable for a peace offering as they were too small too share The animal had to be unblemished, characteristic of the perfect, sinless Christ.
The peace offering could be brought for answered prayer, in connection with a vow, or as an act of thanksgiving. It was not required, but strict regulations still had to be followed. To offer a peace offering, the offerer shall lay his hand upon the head of his offering, and kill it at the door of the Tabernacle of the congregation: and Aaron's sons the priests shall sprinkle the blood upon the altar round about (3:2). The priest burned the fat on the altar. This was always God's portion and was never to be eaten. Whosoever eats the fat of the beast, of which men offer an offering made by fire to the LORD, even the soul (person) that eats it shall be cut off from his people (7:25).
In all the offerings, the Lord's portion was presented first. We are never to give the Lord what is left over after every other obligation or desire is met.
A right relationship with God results in love and peace in fellowship with other believers. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). Justification means having a right relationship with God.
The peace offering expressed a peaceful relationship with God, as well as with others. It was a time of sharing and friendship which is a perfect illustration foreshadowing the church. It is also a reminder that we are not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting (encouraging) one another: and so much the more, as you see the day approaching (Hebrews 10:25).
Word Studies:
7:14 oblation = various offerings beyond obligation; 7:18 abomination = offensive thing, defiled, unclean, destestable to God; 7:25 cut off = excommunicated from family and nation; 8:8 Urim, Thummim = now unknown objects placed in the breastplate of the high priest by which he ascertained the will of God.
Christ Portrayed:
By Moses as he consecrated the priests who were called for the work (Leviticus 8:23-24). Christ is the One Who sets the believer apart for service. You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained (appointed) you (John 15:16).
Pray For:
Government Official: Sen. Paul Sarbanes (MD) · Country: Mongolia (3 million) in east-central Asia · Major language: Khalkha Mongol · As a 70-year era of communism wanes, Bibles are now on sale in the capital, Ulaanbaatar · 29% Shamanist; 2% Buddhist; 2% Muslim; .2% Christian · Prayer Suggestion: Pray for our nation, that it would truly be a Christian nation (Psalm 67:1-7).
Optional Reading: Mark 6
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:8
