What does the offering in Leviticus 9:20 teach about obedience and worship? The Setting: Israel’s First Public Worship Service Leviticus 9 records the inaugural day of priestly ministry after the tabernacle’s completion. Moses guides Aaron through each sacrifice exactly as the LORD prescribed in Exodus 29. Nothing is improvised; everything is revealed. The Verse “They put the fat portions on the breasts, and Aaron burned the fat on the altar.” (Leviticus 9:20) Why the Fat and the Breasts? • Fat portions belonged wholly to God (Leviticus 3:16). • The breasts were waved before the LORD, then given to the priests (Leviticus 7:30-34). • By separating them as commanded, Aaron acknowledged God’s exclusive rights and received only what God allowed. What the Offering Teaches about Obedience • Exact obedience matters. Aaron burns only the fat, exactly as God said—no shortcuts (Exodus 29:13). • Obedience precedes blessing. The glory of the LORD appears only after every command is fulfilled (Leviticus 9:23-24). • Obedience is better than creativity. Israel’s later judgment of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-2) underscores that worship must stay within God’s revealed boundaries (1 Samuel 15:22). • Obedience affirms God’s holiness. By honoring the “fat portions,” Aaron publicly declares God’s absolute worth. What the Offering Teaches about Worship • Worship is God-centered. The choicest portions ascend in smoke to Him alone (Psalm 29:2). • Worship involves mediation. Aaron, not the people, places the fat on the altar—prefiguring Christ, our High Priest (Hebrews 7:26-27). • Worship invites divine fire. When obedience and sacrifice align, God responds with visible acceptance (Leviticus 9:24). • Worship demands separation. Parts reserved for God and parts for priests illustrate that worship sets apart what is holy (2 Corinthians 6:17). Related Scriptures • Exodus 29:13, 25 – original command to burn the fat. • Leviticus 3:16 – “All the fat belongs to the LORD.” • Romans 12:1 – we are to present ourselves as living sacrifices. • Hebrews 13:15 – continual sacrifice of praise through Jesus. Application Today • Offer God the best, not the leftovers—time, talents, resources. • Follow His Word precisely; sincere zeal never excuses disobedience. • Trust Christ’s priestly mediation; no approach to God succeeds apart from Him (John 14:6). • Expect God’s presence when worship is ordered by His truth and offered from a devoted heart. |
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