What is the meaning of Exodus 29:25? Then take them from their hands • In the ordination ceremony, Aaron and his sons place the fat portions and the right thigh in their open palms (Exodus 29:24). • Moses is instructed to “take them” back, symbolizing that the priestly offering moves from human hands to God via God’s chosen mediator. • This moment highlights that even the priests must surrender what they hold; true ministry starts with letting go (Numbers 18:9; 1 Peter 2:5). And burn them on the altar • Fire on the altar represents God’s consuming holiness (Leviticus 1:9; Hebrews 12:29). • Burning destroys ordinary use and sets the gift apart exclusively for Him—no portion returns to the offerer. • It reminds us that worship involves total consecration, not partial gestures (Romans 12:1). Atop the burnt offering • The continual burnt offering is already blazing on the altar (Exodus 29:38-42). • Placing the ordination pieces “atop” it teaches that every specific act of worship rests on a perpetual foundation of surrender. • Likewise, our daily lives must rest on the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ, our unending burnt offering (Hebrews 10:10-14). As a pleasing aroma before the LORD • “Pleasing aroma” expresses God’s acceptance (Genesis 8:21; Ephesians 5:2). • He is not attracted by the scent itself but by the heart of obedience the aroma represents. • When Christ offered Himself, He became the ultimate fragrance that satisfies the Father forever. It is a food offering to the LORD • Though God has no physical need, calling it “food” pictures His delight and fellowship with His people (Leviticus 3:11; Malachi 1:12). • Sacrifice becomes shared “table” experience, anticipating the deeper communion believers now enjoy at the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). summary Exodus 29:25 shows ordination gifts lifted from human hands, wholly consumed on the ever-burning altar, received by God as a pleasing aroma and His “food.” Each phrase underlines total surrender, God’s acceptance, and intimate fellowship—ultimate realities fulfilled in Christ and echoed whenever believers offer themselves fully to the Lord. |
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