What connections exist between Leviticus 7:28 and New Testament teachings on sacrifice? Scriptural Snapshot “Then the LORD said to Moses,” (Leviticus 7:28) Why This Brief Statement Matters • God Himself initiates the entire sacrificial system. • Every subsequent detail of the peace offering (vv. 29-34) flows from this divine word. • The pattern is clear: access to God is on His terms, by His provision. Old Testament Foundations in View • The peace (or fellowship) offering celebrated restored relationship with God (Leviticus 3; 7:11-21). • Parts were burned for the LORD, parts fed the priests, and parts were eaten by the worshiper—an enacted communion meal. • Holiness governed every step; any deviation meant rejection (7:20-21). Key New Testament Parallels • God still speaks first—now through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). • Christ embodies the true peace offering, making reconciliation “by the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:19-20). • Jesus is both sacrifice and High Priest, fulfilling the priestly portion (Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:12). • The Lord’s Supper mirrors the shared meal of the peace offering (1 Corinthians 10:16-18; 11:23-26). • Believers, made a “royal priesthood,” now participate in the benefits of Christ’s offering (1 Peter 2:5). • Voluntary gratitude remains central; we present our bodies as “a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Shared Themes Tying the Testaments Together • Divine initiative—God defines the way to fellowship. • Sacrifice that brings peace—animal in Leviticus, Christ in the Gospels. • A covenant meal—ancient altar table, now the communion table. • Priestly participation—Levites then, the Church now. • Holiness and obedience—required under both covenants. Living the Connection Today • Rest in the full, God-provided sacrifice of Christ. • Celebrate ongoing fellowship at the Lord’s Table with thankful hearts. • Serve as modern priests, offering worship, witness, and lives set apart to Him. |
    |