What is the significance of "pure frankincense" in Leviticus 24:7 for believers today? Setting the Scene—Leviticus 24:7 “Along each row you are to put pure frankincense, so that it may serve as a memorial portion for the bread, an offering made by fire to the LORD.” (Leviticus 24:7) Why Frankincense?—Its Nature and Use • A resin from Boswellia trees, harvested by deliberate incision; it “bleeds” out and hardens into fragrant droplets. • When burned, it releases a rich, sweet aroma that lingers—perfect for the sanctuary’s constant fragrance (Exodus 30:34-38). • Only the finest—“pure”—frankincense could be placed before the LORD, underscoring His absolute holiness. Symbolism in the Tabernacle • Placed beside every stack of showbread, it turned simple loaves into a “memorial portion” (Leviticus 24:7). • The rising scent represented Israel’s worship and gratitude continually ascending to God (cf. Exodus 30:7-8). • Fire consumed the incense, portraying complete surrender—nothing held back. Foreshadowing Christ • Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35); frankincense beside the bread hints at His sinless devotion and perfect offering. • Wise men presented Him frankincense at His birth (Matthew 2:11), signifying deity and priesthood fulfilled in Him. • He “loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2). Connection to Prayer • Heaven still holds “golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints” (Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4). • Frankincense’s pure aroma pictures prayers purified by Christ’s righteousness and carried by the Spirit. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Pursue purity in worship—offer God the best, not the leftover (Malachi 1:7-8). • Let every act of obedience be a “pleasing aroma” (2 Corinthians 2:15). • Maintain continual prayer; the fragrance at the table never ceased (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Live priestly lives: “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house…to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5). • Remember Christ’s sufficiency—He is both the Bread and the Incense, sustaining and presenting us before the Father. Key Points to Carry Forward – Pure frankincense in Leviticus 24:7 highlights God’s demand for holy, wholehearted worship. – It prefigures Jesus’ flawless sacrifice and ongoing intercession. – Our prayers and lives, purified in Him, rise as a sweet aroma to God today. |
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