How does Leviticus 2:2 connect to New Testament teachings on sacrifice? Leviticus 2:2 in Focus “He is to bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall take from it a handful of fine flour and oil, together with all its frankincense, and burn the memorial portion on the altar, a fire offering of a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” Key Features to Notice - Fine flour: the best of the grain, sifted and pure - Oil: source of richness and life - Frankincense: fragrant resin releasing sweet aroma when burned - Memorial portion: a representative handful placed on the altar - Pleasing aroma: God’s acceptance of the offering New Testament Echoes of “A Pleasing Aroma” - Ephesians 5:2 — “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” - 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 — Through Christ we are “the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved.” - Philippians 4:18 — Believers’ gifts described as “a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” Leviticus 2:2 sets the pattern: when something wholly pleasing rises to God, He receives it favorably. The New Testament applies that language to Christ first, then to the lives and worship of believers. Christ as the True Grain Offering - Bread imagery: John 6:35, 51 — Jesus is “the bread of life,” the ultimate provision of sustenance. - Sinless purity: 1 Peter 1:19 calls Him “a lamb without blemish,” paralleling the fine, sifted flour. - Anointed with the Spirit: Acts 10:38 speaks of Jesus “anointed with the Holy Spirit,” echoing the oil mixed into the offering. - Frankincense foreshadow: Matthew 2:11 records frankincense among the Magi’s gifts, hinting at His priestly, sacrificial role. The Memorial Aspect and the Lord’s Supper - Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24 — “Do this in remembrance of Me.” • The grain offering’s “memorial portion” prefigures how a small piece of bread announces a far greater reality — Christ’s body offered for sin. • Both acts keep God’s saving work at the forefront of communal worship. From Altar to Daily Living: Our Response Romans 12:1 — “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual service of worship.” Hebrews 13:15-16 — “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… and do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Practical outflow: - Offer the best of your time, talents, and resources (fine flour). - Depend on the Holy Spirit for empowerment (oil). - Let praise and prayer rise continually (frankincense). - Remember Christ’s work often, especially at the Lord’s Table (memorial portion). - Live so that everything you do becomes “a pleasing aroma to the Lord.” |
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