What role does the priest play in Leviticus 6:15 regarding offerings? Setting the Scene “‘The priest shall take from it a handful of the fine flour of the grain offering and some of its oil, together with all the frankincense that is on the offering, and burn this memorial portion on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD.’” (Leviticus 6:15) The Priest’s Assigned Tasks • Selects a representative “handful” from the grain offering—neither random nor minimal, but the portion God specified • Adds “all the frankincense,” ensuring the fragrant element accompanies the flour and oil • Places the mixture on the altar fire, creating the “memorial portion” that rises as “a pleasing aroma to the LORD” • Acts in strict obedience to the exact instructions previously given (Leviticus 2:2, Leviticus 6:14–18), modeling precise submission to God’s Word Why This Role Matters • Mediator: The priest stands between worshiper and God, presenting the offering exactly as commanded (Hebrews 5:1) • Custodian of holiness: By handling only the selected “holy” portion, he safeguards what belongs to the LORD (Leviticus 6:17) • Reminder of covenant: Burning the “memorial portion” keeps the relationship between God and Israel continually before the LORD • Guarantee of acceptance: When the aroma rises, it confirms that atonement and fellowship are secured (cf. Ephesians 5:2, where Christ’s sacrifice is likewise called “a fragrant offering”) Foreshadowing the Greater Priesthood • In Christ, the perfect High Priest, the symbolism is fulfilled; He offers Himself, not merely grain, once for all (Hebrews 9:11–14) • The precise obedience of the Levitical priest anticipates the flawless obedience of Jesus (Philippians 2:8) Takeaways for Believers • God values exact obedience; details of worship still matter (John 14:15) • Our own offerings—time, resources, praise—are acceptable when brought through God’s appointed Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) • The “pleasing aroma” motif invites us to live sacrificially so that our lives rise to God as sweet fragrance (Romans 12:1, 2 Corinthians 2:15) |
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