What does Leviticus 7:18 teach about the importance of following God's commands? Setting the Scene Leviticus 7 details the “fellowship” (peace) offering. God specifies exactly when the meat may be eaten: the day of sacrifice and, if anything remains, on the next day (v. 16–17). Verse 18 spells out what happens if someone pushes past that limit. “ ‘If any of the flesh of the sacrifice of his fellowship offering is eaten on the third day, it will not be accepted. It will not be credited to the one who presents it; it is impure, and the person who eats any of it shall bear his iniquity.’ ” (Leviticus 7:18) Key Observations • The instruction is crystal clear—“third day” consumption is forbidden. • Disobedience cancels the offering: “it will not be accepted.” • The worshiper receives no benefit: “It will not be credited.” • Eating anyway brings guilt: the offender “shall bear his iniquity.” • God calls the disallowed meat “impure,” underscoring His holiness. Why the Third-Day Rule Matters 1. Specific obedience matters as much as general intent. 2. God, not the worshiper, decides what qualifies as acceptable worship. 3. Holiness has built-in time limits and boundaries—ignoring them defiles what was once holy. 4. The consequences are personal; the sinner “bears” his own guilt. What It Reveals about God • He is precise: details count (compare Leviticus 10:1–3). • He is holy: impurity cannot slip past His gaze (Habakkuk 1:13). • He is just: disobedience never goes unnoticed (Galatians 6:7). • He is gracious: by giving clear instructions, He shows the safe path (Psalm 119:105). Implications for Us Today • Partial obedience = disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22). • Sincerity does not trump Scripture—God’s stated will is final (Deuteronomy 12:32). • Worship must be God-centered, not convenience-centered (John 4:23–24). • Holiness still calls for boundaries in daily life—sexual ethics, speech, stewardship, etc. (1 Peter 1:14–16). Other Scriptures That Echo the Lesson • Leviticus 22:29–30—thank offerings must be eaten the same day. • Numbers 15:30–31—“high-handed” sin brings guilt. • James 2:10—stumbling at one point breaks the whole law. • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Takeaway Points to Live By • Obey God’s commands fully, not selectively. • Treat every detail of His Word as trustworthy and binding. • Remember that holiness is God’s gift but also our responsibility. • Let reverence guide every act of worship, big or small. |
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