What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 15:21? But The word signals a contrast with the instruction in verse 20 to “eat it before the LORD” when the firstborn is flawless. • Scripture often uses “but” to turn our attention from what is permissible to what is forbidden (Leviticus 22:19–20). • Here it marks the holiness line God draws: what crosses that line cannot enter His altar. If an animal has a defect A “defect” covers any noticeable imperfection. • God’s altar demanded wholeness because He is whole (Leviticus 1:3; Psalm 18:30). • Sacrifices were visual sermons; a blemished animal would misrepresent God’s perfection and the perfect atonement He requires (Hebrews 9:14). Is lame or blind Two specific examples follow. • Lameness pictured weakness and instability—unfit symbols of the strong, steadfast God (2 Samuel 22:33). • Blindness suggested an inability to perceive—unthinkable for the all-seeing LORD (Psalm 33:13–15). • By naming concrete flaws, God teaches that no defect, however common, escapes His gaze (Proverbs 15:3). Or has any serious flaw The scope widens to “any serious flaw,” closing loopholes. • The principle: nothing marred by sin’s curse may represent the Holy One (Deuteronomy 17:1; Malachi 1:8). • This anticipates the need for a flawless Redeemer—fulfilled in Christ, “a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18–19). You must not sacrifice it to the LORD your God The command is absolute. • Worship on God’s terms, not ours, safeguards true devotion (Exodus 20:25–26). • Offering the best declared trust in God’s provision and honored His worth (Proverbs 3:9). • Today, while animal sacrifices are fulfilled in Christ, the principle continues: present your bodies “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1), giving Him undivided, uncompromised worship. summary Deuteronomy 15:21 teaches that only unblemished offerings may approach a perfect God. The ban on defective animals underscores His holiness, exposes the insufficiency of anything tainted, and foreshadows the flawless sacrifice of Christ. In response, believers bring God their best—wholehearted, unreserved, and holy devotion. |
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