How does Leviticus 3:4 foreshadow Christ's ultimate sacrifice for sin? Setting the Scene • Leviticus 3 describes the “fellowship” (or “peace”) offering, offered voluntarily for communion with God. • Verse 4 specifies: “and the two kidneys with the fat that is on them by the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he shall remove with the kidneys.” (Leviticus 3:4) • These inner organs, heavy with fat, were laid on the altar exclusively for the LORD (vv. 5, 16). Why the Inner Parts? • In Hebrew thought, kidneys and fat symbolized the hidden seat of will, emotion, and devotion (Psalm 7:9; Jeremiah 11:20). • Removing them and placing them wholly on the fire pictured giving God the very core of one’s being, not just outward acts. • The liver lobe likewise represented life’s deepest resources. All were burned—fully surrendered. Foreshadowing Christ • Jesus fulfilled every sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1-10). The fellowship offering highlights: – Total inward surrender: “I have come to do Your will” (Hebrews 10:7). Christ offered not only His body but His heart, mind, and will—mirrored in the kidneys and liver set apart for God. – Pleasing aroma: “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a fragrant aroma.” (Ephesians 5:2) The fat created a rich, pleasing smell, prefiguring the Father’s acceptance of the Son’s obedience. – Peace with God: The fellowship offering celebrated harmony after atonement; Christ’s cross “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20). – Shared meal: Portions of the fellowship offering were eaten by worshipers (Leviticus 7:15). Likewise, believers now “partake” of Christ (John 6:53-56; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17), enjoying ongoing communion because His sacrifice endures. Echoes in Other Scriptures • Isaiah 53:10—“Yet it pleased the LORD to crush Him…” echoes the burning of the choicest parts. • John 19:34—blood and water from Jesus’ side show His innermost life poured out. • Hebrews 4:12—God still “judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart,” recalling the kidneys’ symbolism. • Revelation 5:9—heaven praises the Lamb because His sacrifice reconciled people to God, just as the fellowship offering celebrated restored relationship. Living It Out Today • Christ’s complete surrender invites ours (Romans 12:1). • True fellowship with God flows from inward devotion, not mere external ritual (Matthew 15:8). • Because Jesus is our lasting fellowship offering, we enjoy continual peace and access (Hebrews 10:19-22). |
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