Connect Leviticus 7:11 with New Testament teachings on thanksgiving and offerings. Leviticus 7:11—The Peace Offering of Thanksgiving “Now this is the law of the sacrifice of the peace offerings that one may present to the LORD.” (Leviticus 7:11) • In Israel’s worship, the peace (or fellowship) offering was the only sacrifice eaten by the worshiper, symbolizing shared table-fellowship with God. • When brought “by way of thanksgiving” (v. 12), it celebrated God’s goodness with grateful hearts and tangible gifts. What the Peace Offering Teaches • Relationship, not mere ritual—God invites His people to dine in His presence. • Gratitude is expressed through giving—bread, meat, oil, and time all became thank-you gifts. • Wholeness—peace (Heb. shalom) means total well-being supplied by the LORD. Christ, Our Ultimate Peace Offering • “For He Himself is our peace.” (Ephesians 2:14) • His cross reconciles us to God, fulfilling every Old-Testament peace sacrifice once for all (Colossians 1:20). • Because the price is paid, we now enjoy continual fellowship with the Father. New-Testament Echoes of Thanksgiving & Offerings • Hebrews 13:15—“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise…” • 1 Thessalonians 5:18—“Give thanks in every circumstance…” • Colossians 3:15-17—peace of Christ, the word of Christ, and gratitude go hand in hand. • Philippians 4:18—financial gifts to gospel work are called “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” • 2 Corinthians 9:11—generosity “produces thanksgiving to God.” • Luke 17:15-16—only the grateful leper returned; Jesus notices thankful hearts. • Romans 12:1—believers present their bodies as “a living sacrifice,” the logical response to mercy. • 1 Peter 2:5—God’s people are “a holy priesthood” offering spiritual sacrifices through Christ. Connecting the Dots Leviticus 7:11 New Testament • A literal animal brought in thanks → • Jesus, the once-for-all Peace Offering (Hebrews 10:10) • Shared meal with God and neighbor → • Communion and shared life in the body (1 Corinthians 10:16-17) • Physical gifts of bread and meat → • Spiritual gifts of praise, service, and generosity • Joyful acknowledgment of God’s favor → • “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything” (Ephesians 5:20) Living Out Thanksgiving Today • Speak it—let gratitude season every conversation. • Sing it—corporate worship is modern table-fellowship. • Share it—hospitality and benevolence mirror the ancient feast. • Spend it—financial support of ministry rises as a fragrant offering. • Show it—obedient, holy living is a daily “peace offering” pleasing to God. Key Takeaways • Thanksgiving is not an add-on; it is integral to covenant life, Old and New. • True gratitude always costs something—time, resources, reputation, or convenience. • Christ transforms ritual into reality: because we feast on His finished work, every act of praise, giving, and service becomes a living Leviticus 7:11 moment. |
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