How does Leviticus 7:16 relate to New Testament teachings on sacrificial living? Setting the Stage in Leviticus 7:16 “But if, however, the sacrifice of his offering is a vow or a freewill offering, it shall be eaten on the day he offers his sacrifice, and whatever remains may be eaten the next day.” Key Features of the Old Testament Freewill Offering • Voluntary—flowing from gratitude, not compulsion • Personal—presented by the worshiper himself • Immediate—eaten the same day, with any remainder consumed the next day • Complete—nothing allowed to linger past the appointed time (see v. 17) Christ’s Fulfillment and Our New Covenant Context • Jesus became the once-for-all sacrifice, ending the need for animal offerings (Hebrews 10:10) • His perfect offering opens the way for believers to bring “spiritual sacrifices” rather than blood offerings (1 Peter 2:5) New Testament Calls to Sacrificial Living • Romans 12:1—“Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” • 1 Peter 2:5—“you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” • Hebrews 13:15-16—“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name. And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Philippians 2:17—“But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” • Ephesians 5:2—“and walk in love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Drawing Parallels Between Leviticus 7:16 and New Covenant Sacrifice • Voluntary devotion then—voluntary self-offering now • Prompt consumption then—prompt obedience now (“today” and “next day,” not “someday”) • Wholeness then—whole-life surrender now; nothing held back • Fellowship meal then—ongoing communion with Christ and His body now (1 Corinthians 10:16-17) Practical Takeaways for Today’s Believer • Offer yourself willingly, not grudgingly; love fuels true sacrifice • Keep your devotion fresh; pursue daily renewal rather than stale religiosity • Let every area of life—work, relationships, resources—be “eaten up” in service to God • Act quickly on the Spirit’s promptings; delayed obedience risks decay • Remember that sacrificial living is communal: share, serve, praise, and encourage others, just as the Old Testament meal was shared among worshipers |
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