How can we apply the principles of Leviticus 3:6 in our daily worship? Understanding the Fellowship Offering “If, however, one’s offering is a fellowship offering to the LORD from the flock, he shall present a male or female without blemish.” (Leviticus 3:6) • A voluntary “fellowship” (or “peace”) sacrifice—shared between the worshiper, the priest, and the LORD • Accepts either gender, yet absolutely “without blemish” • Symbolizes restored communion and joyful gratitude before God Timeless Principles in the Verse • Worship is relational, intended for fellowship with the LORD • The gift must be first-rate—unblemished, wholehearted, costly • God welcomes variety (male or female) as long as purity is constant • The worshiper approaches freely, moved by gratitude, not compulsion Living Sacrifice: Presenting Ourselves Without Blemish Romans 12:1—“offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.” Daily practice: • Examine motives, attitudes, habits; confess and forsake blemishes (Psalm 139:23-24) • Pursue holiness in speech, media choices, relationships (Psalm 24:3-4) • Begin each day consciously “presenting” yourself—mind, time, abilities—to the Lord’s service Worship Flowing from Peace Secured by Christ 1 Peter 1:18-19—Christ is “a lamb without blemish or spot.” • Every act of worship rests on the once-for-all peace Christ obtained (Colossians 1:20) • Approach God confidently, celebrating reconciliation instead of earning it (Hebrews 10:19-22) • Let gratitude for that peace fuel songs, prayers, obedience, and witness Diverse Expressions, One Standard of Purity Leviticus allows either a male or female lamb; likewise: • Sing, journal, serve, give—expressions vary by personality and gifting (John 4:23-24) • Whatever the form, keep content and heart aligned with Scripture’s truth • Resist the idea that certain styles alone please God; He looks for sincerity and purity Generosity as Fellowship Worship Hebrews 13:15-16—“do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Practical steps: • Budget worshipfully—set aside resources to bless fellow believers and the needy • Share meals, time, skills; fellowship offerings were eaten in community, so include others • Treat hospitality and charity as extensions of Sunday singing, not separate activities Summary: A Daily Fellowship Lifestyle Because Scripture is accurate and literal, Leviticus 3:6 still guides today: approach God freely through Christ, offer Him your very best, keep your worship pure, express it in varied yet biblically faithful ways, and let generosity cement the fellowship you enjoy with Him and with His people. |