What role does the "wave offering" play in understanding Old Testament worship practices? Focal Passage: Leviticus 7:30-31 “He must bring the fat, together with the breast, and wave the breast before the LORD as a wave offering. The priest is to burn the fat on the altar, but the breast belongs to Aaron and his sons.” What the Wave Offering Is • Part of the peace (fellowship) offerings • A select portion—often the breast or thigh—physically lifted and moved back and forth before God • Always presented first to the LORD, then granted to the priests for food (Leviticus 10:14-15) Why the Gesture Matters • Visibly declares that everything comes from God and returns to Him (Exodus 29:25) • Signals transfer of ownership: from worshiper → LORD → priest • Reinforces community: worshiper, priest, and God all share in the same sacrifice Key Functions in Old Testament Worship 1. Consecration of Priests – At Aaron’s ordination the wave offering set the priests apart (Exodus 29:24). 2. Thanksgiving and Fellowship – Incorporated into firstfruits and peace offerings, expressing gratitude and shared joy (Leviticus 23:20). 3. Purification – Used in cleansings, e.g., the healed leper’s ceremony (Leviticus 14:12-20). 4. Representation – The tribe of Levi itself was “waved” before the LORD as a living offering for service (Numbers 8:11-15). Theological Significance • God’s Provision: Portions returned to the priests underscore that God sustains His servants (Deuteronomy 18:1-4). • Shared Table: Eating part of the same sacrifice embodies peace between God and His people (Leviticus 7:15). • Anticipation of Christ: Christ, the firstfruits, was “presented” to the Father and now shares His life with believers (1 Corinthians 15:20). What This Teaches About Worship • Worship Is Participatory—hands physically lift the offering, engaging body and heart. • Worship Is Relational—sacrifice, priesthood, and people are woven together in God’s presence. • Worship Affirms Stewardship—what is offered belongs wholly to the LORD before it benefits anyone else. |
    |