How does Leviticus 3:5 connect to the concept of peace offerings in Scripture? Leviticus 3 : 5—The Verse in Focus “ And Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar atop the burnt offering that is on the burning wood, as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” What This Reveals About Peace Offerings • Placed “on top of the burnt offering” – The worshiper’s sin is first dealt with through the burnt offering (Leviticus 1). – Only after atonement can genuine peace and fellowship follow (Romans 5 : 1). • “Offering made by fire” – Fire pictures total consecration; nothing is held back from God (Leviticus 3 : 16). • “A pleasing aroma to the LORD” – God Himself delights in restored harmony with His people (Leviticus 26 : 11–12). Why the Order Matters 1. Atonement precedes peace. • Exodus 24 : 5—Burnt and peace offerings sealed the Sinai covenant. • Isaiah 53 : 5—“The chastisement that brought us peace was upon Him.” 2. Peace offerings celebrate relationship. • Parts for God (fat), priests (breast/thigh), and worshiper (remaining meat) symbolize shared table fellowship (Leviticus 7 : 15). 3. Worship circles back to gratitude. • Deuteronomy 27 : 7—“You shall sacrifice peace offerings … and you shall rejoice.” Peace Offerings Throughout Scripture • National rejoicing—1 Kings 8 : 62-63 at the temple dedication. • Covenant renewal—Judg 21 : 4. • Personal vows—1 Sam 1 : 24-28 (Hannah). • Future anticipation—Ezek 45 : 15 shows peace offerings in the millennial worship order. Fulfillment in Christ • He is the once-for-all burnt offering—Heb 10 : 10. • He is also our peace—Eph 2 : 14-17; Colossians 1 : 20. • Through His cross both atonement and fellowship are secured, perfectly uniting the functions pictured in Leviticus 3 : 5. Living Out the Peace Offering Today • Rest confidently in the finished atonement Christ provided. • Enjoy daily fellowship—“draw near with a true heart” (Hebrews 10 : 22). • Respond with thanksgiving and generosity, mirroring the shared meal aspect (2 Corinthians 9 : 11-15). |
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