What does Leviticus 7:28 teach about the role of offerings in worship? Setting the Setting: Leviticus 7:28 in Its Immediate Context - “Then the LORD said to Moses” (Leviticus 7:28) sits in the middle of instructions for the fellowship (peace) offering. - Leviticus 7:11-36 details how worshipers bring portions of the animal, how priests handle the blood and fat, and how specific parts are set aside for God and the priestly family. - Verse 28 signals a fresh word from God, underscoring that every step of worship—especially offerings—originates with Him, not human invention. Key Observation: Worship Initiated by Divine Instruction - The simple phrase “the LORD said” reminds us: • Worship is God-directed, not self-directed. • Offerings are an obedient response to His revealed will. • True worship always begins with hearing and obeying God’s voice (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4-5; John 4:23-24). - God’s initiative also guarantees the acceptability of the sacrifice; because He designs it, He receives it (Genesis 4:4-5; Hebrews 11:4). The Role of Offerings Highlighted 1. A tangible acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty • By specifying every detail, God claims ownership of the worship process (Psalm 24:1). 2. A means of fellowship and shared joy • The peace offering allowed the worshiper, priest, and God to “share a meal.” It symbolized restored relationship (Leviticus 7:15). 3. A provision for the priesthood • Portions like the breast and right thigh sustained those who served at the altar (Numbers 18:8-11; 1 Corinthians 9:13). 4. A pattern pointing to Christ • Just as God prescribed every part of the peace offering, He prescribed Christ as the once-for-all sacrifice bringing eternal peace (Isaiah 53:5; Ephesians 2:13-16). 5. An act of covenant obedience • The people’s compliance demonstrated faith and submission, the heart of true worship (1 Samuel 15:22; James 2:17). New Testament Echoes - Hebrews 10:5-10 shows Jesus fulfilling the divinely spoken plan: “Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You prepared for Me.” - 1 Peter 2:5 calls believers “a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ,” continuing the principle of God-directed offerings. - Romans 12:1 urges presenting our bodies “as a living sacrifice,” translating the Levitical pattern into daily Christian life. Practical Takeaways for Today - Approach worship first by listening to God’s Word; offerings of praise, service, finances, or time flow from obedience. - Recognize that every act of giving in worship is fellowship with God and support for His ministers. - Let every offering point to the perfect peace secured by Christ, the fulfillment of all God-directed sacrifices. |
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