What is the meaning of Leviticus 23:19? You shall also prepare The Lord’s instructions for the Feast of Weeks had already called for “a new grain offering to the LORD” (Leviticus 23:16). Now He adds further sacrifices, reminding Israel that worship involves more than a token gesture. The word “prepare” carries the idea of active participation—every worshiper was to come ready to obey, just as “you shall keep My statutes and carry them out” (Leviticus 18:4). Numbers 28:26-31 repeats the directive, underscoring that God’s people must never treat His set times casually. one male goat The goat is singled out because, throughout Leviticus (4:23; 9:3), male goats function as substitutes for sinners. God chose a goat—not a bull or bird here—showing that even at a festival of joy, sin still needed dealing with. Hebrews 9:13-14 notes that “the blood of goats and bulls…sanctify the outward,” pointing forward to the perfect Substitute. as a sin offering A sin offering acknowledged that sin separates the people from their holy God. Leviticus 4 explains that the animal’s blood was applied “to make atonement…so that they will be forgiven” (v. 20). This sacrifice did two things: • It satisfied God’s justice, reminding Israel that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). • It pointed ahead to Christ, “who knew no sin but became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21), fulfilling every sin offering ever made. and two male lambs After sin is dealt with, fellowship can flourish, so the Lord calls for lambs. Lambs picture innocence (Exodus 12:5) and are especially linked to Jesus, “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Bringing two lambs emphasizes abundance and shared joy; peace offerings were often eaten together (Leviticus 7:15). a year old Year-old animals were in their prime—mature yet unblemished (Leviticus 22:19-21). God deserves the best, not leftovers. Likewise Romans 12:1 urges believers to present themselves as “living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God,” offering Him our first and finest. as a peace offering Peace (or fellowship) offerings celebrated restored relationship. Leviticus 3 describes them as “food offerings, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” Key ideas: • Reconciliation—sin forgiven, hostility gone (Colossians 1:20). • Fellowship—the worshiper, priest, and family ate together, picturing communion with God (Leviticus 7:15). • Thanksgiving—gratitude for the Lord’s provision and presence (Psalm 116:17). Ephesians 2:14 affirms that Jesus Himself “is our peace,” accomplishing what every sacrifice symbolized. summary Leviticus 23:19 teaches that joyful celebration cannot bypass atonement. God required a male goat for sin and two year-old lambs for peace so His people could stand forgiven and enjoy fellowship. Every detail—best animals, specific purposes, shared meal—points to Christ, who both removed our guilt and became our peace. Thus, the verse invites us to approach God with cleansed hearts and thankful communion, bringing Him our wholehearted obedience and praise. |
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