How does Leviticus 2:16 connect to New Testament teachings on giving? “And the priest shall burn the memorial portion of the crushed grain and oil, together with all its frankincense, as a food offering to the LORD.” Key observations from the verse • A “memorial portion” is set apart and completely given to God. • Crushed grain, oil, and frankincense depict quality, cost, and fragrance. • The offering is burned—nothing held back—signifying total dedication. • The act is performed by the priest, underscoring mediation and holiness. Echoes in the New Testament • Philippians 4:18—Paul calls the Philippians’ financial gift “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8—cheerful, generous giving is directly linked to God’s pleasure and provision. • Hebrews 13:15-16—“Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Ephesians 5:2—Christ’s self-offering is “a fragrant aroma.” Our gifts follow that pattern. • Romans 12:1—believers present their bodies “as a living sacrifice,” the foundational act behind every material gift. Shared principles between Leviticus 2:16 and NT giving • First and best: the memorial portion mirrors the NT call to give “first fruits” (1 Corinthians 16:2). • Fragrant aroma: frankincense prefigures the NT language of gifts rising as a pleasing scent to God. • Wholeheartedness: what is burned cannot be reclaimed; NT giving is likewise decisive and irreversible. • Mediation: the Levitical priesthood foreshadows Christ our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), who perfects and presents our offerings. • Remembrance: the “memorial” aspect calls both giver and God to covenant faithfulness; NT giving visibly remembers Christ’s grace (2 Corinthians 8:9). Practical takeaways • Give intentionally—set something apart first, not last. • Give quality—offer what actually costs you, reflecting crushed grain and precious frankincense. • Give worshipfully—see your gift as rising to God, not merely supporting a budget. • Give through Christ—rest in His priestly mediation; He purifies imperfect gifts. • Give joyfully—confidence that such sacrifices still delight the Lord today. Summary Leviticus 2:16 models an offering that is set apart, costly, fragrant, and totally consumed for God. The New Testament picks up every thread—calling believers to generous, cheerful, first-fruit giving that ascends through Christ as a pleasing aroma. Our financial gifts, service, and very lives become modern “memorial portions,” continually reminding us and proclaiming to the Lord that we belong wholly to Him. |
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