In what ways can we apply the principles of Leviticus 7:5 today? Placing Leviticus 7:5 in View “The priest shall burn them on the altar as a food offering to the LORD; it is a guilt offering.” (Leviticus 7:5) What the Original Israelites Learned • Sin incurs real guilt that must be dealt with before God • A substitute (the sacrificial animal) bears the penalty in the sinner’s place • The entire sacrifice is consumed—nothing held back—showing total consecration • A priest mediates, standing between the guilty party and a holy God • Restitution (vv. 1–6) accompanies forgiveness, stressing responsibility toward injured parties Timeless Principles Drawn from the Verse • Sin is costly and cannot be overlooked (Romans 6:23) • God Himself provides the way of atonement (John 1:29) • Full devotion—“all on the altar”—is the only fitting response (Romans 12:1) • Mediation is essential; today that role is fulfilled perfectly in Christ (1 Timothy 2:5) • Forgiveness and restitution belong together (Luke 19:8–9) Applying Those Principles Today 1. Take Sin Seriously – Acknowledge specific wrongdoing; do not minimize it (1 John 1:8–9). – Accept that guilt is real and requires God’s remedy, not self-help. 2. Trust the Perfect Guilt Offering—Christ – Jesus “offered Himself once for all” (Hebrews 10:10). – Rest in His finished work rather than ritual or merit. 3. Make Things Right with People – Where our choices have harmed others, pursue restitution promptly (Matthew 5:23–24). – Restoration is a gospel witness of integrity. 4. Place Your Whole Life on God’s Altar – Hold nothing back: time, talents, resources, relationships (Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 6:20). – Let every area be “burned up” in wholehearted service rather than partial commitment. 5. Honor God-Assigned Mediators and Spiritual Leadership – Submit to shepherds who watch over your souls (Hebrews 13:17). – Seek counsel and accountability that point you to Christ the ultimate High Priest. 6. Cultivate Grateful Worship – Remember the cost of your forgiveness; respond with joyful praise (Psalm 103:1–5). – Incorporate regular times of reflection on Christ’s atonement, especially at the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 11:26). 7. Live a Holy, Set-Apart Life – The consumed sacrifice pictures a life separated from sin. – Pursue practical holiness daily (1 Peter 1:15–16). In Summary Leviticus 7:5 calls modern believers to face sin honestly, cling to Christ’s substitutionary sacrifice, make restitution where needed, and surrender every part of life to God in grateful, holy devotion. |