What does Leviticus 3:14 teach about offering the "fat" to the Lord? Setting of the Verse Leviticus 3 describes the peace (or fellowship) offering, a voluntary sacrifice expressing gratitude, communion, and joy in God’s presence. Verse 14 focuses on the part of the animal specifically set apart for the LORD. Exact Text “From the peace offering he is to bring an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails and all the fat that is on them.” (Leviticus 3:14) Meaning of “Offering the Fat” • “Fat” refers to the richest, most energy-dense portion of the animal—considered the choicest part. • God required that this fat be burned wholly for Him, never eaten (Leviticus 3:16-17). • By surrendering the best, worshipers acknowledged God’s supreme worth and rightful ownership over all. Theological Significance • Exclusive devotion: Just as the fat was reserved for God alone, so the best of our lives belongs to Him (Proverbs 3:9). • Substitutionary symbolism: Burning fat produced a pleasing aroma (Leviticus 3:5). This foreshadowed Christ’s self-offering “a fragrant aroma” to God (Ephesians 5:2). • Holiness and separation: Fat set apart teaches that what is most prized must not be shared with idols or self (Deuteronomy 32:38). God alone deserves it. Wider Biblical Pattern • Leviticus 7:22-25 reinforces the prohibition against eating fat. • 1 Samuel 2:15-17 condemns priests who seized the fat for themselves, showing God’s jealousy for His portion. • Isaiah 1:11 uses “fat of fed beasts” to illustrate worship that pleases God only when joined to obedience. Implications for Believers Today • Give God first and best—time, talents, resources—before enjoying the remainder. • Reject self-indulgence that withholds what God has claimed. • Rejoice that Jesus fulfilled every sacrificial shadow; yet the principle of wholehearted devotion lives on (Romans 12:1). |
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