What connections exist between Exodus 29:27 and New Testament teachings on sacrifice? Setting the Scene in Exodus 29 • Exodus 29:27: “Consecrate for Aaron and his sons the breast of the wave offering that is waved and the thigh of the contribution that is lifted up from the ram of ordination.” • The verse sits within the ordination ritual for Israel’s priests. Two specific pieces of the ram—the breast and the thigh—are set apart as holy portions for the priests after being presented to the LORD. • The actions are called “wave” and “heave” (or “contribution”) offerings, symbolizing presentation to God first and then distribution for priestly sustenance. Key Features of the Wave and Heave Offerings • Presentation to God: The portions are lifted or waved to acknowledge God’s ownership of everything. • Consecration: Once offered, they are declared holy and reserved for priestly use. • Shared fellowship: God receives the sacrifice, and His servants partake, illustrating communion with Him. Patterns that Resurface in the New Covenant • God still receives the first and best; nothing acceptable is withheld (Hebrews 9:22-26). • Priestly sharing prefigures the believer’s fellowship with Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16-18). • Consecration language foreshadows believers being set apart as “a holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5). Christ Fulfills the Priestly Portion • Jesus embodies both priest and offering. Hebrews 7:27: “He sacrificed for sins once for all when He offered Himself.” • Unlike Aaron’s sons, Jesus needs no continual offerings; His single act satisfies God completely (Hebrews 10:10-14). • The wave/heave portions typify how God gives the sacrifice back as provision: the Father gives the risen Christ to His people as ongoing sustenance (John 6:51). Believers Share in the Ongoing Offering • 1 Peter 2:5: believers “offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” • Romans 12:1: life itself becomes “a living sacrifice.” We don’t bring animal portions, but we place every faculty—mind, body, resources—on the altar. • Ephesians 5:2: walking in love mirrors Christ’s “fragrant sacrificial offering,” echoing the pleasing aroma of Exodus offerings. • As priests in Christ, we receive spiritual nourishment from the very sacrifice we present—His Word, His body and blood remembered at the Lord’s Table (Luke 22:19-20). Practical Takeaways for Today • Give God the first and best of time, talents, and treasure; it all belongs to Him first. • Expect that what is laid on God’s altar returns as spiritual sustenance for service. • Live consciously “lifted” to God—every task waved before Him in gratitude. • Fellowship with Christ daily; the once-for-all sacrifice still feeds and empowers a holy priesthood to minister in the world. |
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