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Bible Pathways - February 3, 2006


February 3, 2006

Read Leviticus 7

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. The priest shall burn the fat upon the altar: but the breast shall be Aaron's and his sons'. And the right shoulder shall ye give unto the priest for an 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 to be eaten by the offerer and his family. Birds were not acceptable for a peace offering. The animal had to be unblemished (3:1), characteristic of the perfect, sinless Christ who was to come.

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 had to be followed. To offer a peace offering, we read that 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. The fat was always God's portion and was never to be eaten. Whosoever eateth the fat of the beast, of which men offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, even the soul (person) that eateth it shall be cut off from his people (7:25).

In all the offerings, the Lord's portion was presented first from all sources of increase (Deuteronomy 14:22,28; 26:12; Proverbs 3:9). Today, just as then, we are never to give the Lord whatever is left over after every other desire is met. Furthermore, 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 being put into 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 ye see the day approaching (Hebrews 10:25).

Word Studies:

7:14 oblation = various offerings beyond obligation; 7:18 abomination = offensive thing, defiled, unclean, detestable 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. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained (appointed) you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit (John 15:16).

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mrs. A.C. Tarjan and Ora Anderson · Staff: Barbara Bivens · Government Officials: Rep. Sanford Bishop (GA) and Sen. Paul Sarbanes (MD) · Country: Guatemala (12 million) in Central America · Major languages: Spanish and Indian languages · Religious freedom · 93% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Rise early in the morning to lift up your prayers to God and hope in His Word (Psalm 119:147).

Optional Reading: Mark 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Colossians 1:16



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