What does the "pleasing aroma" signify about our offerings to God? The Old Testament Picture Leviticus 1:9: “The priest is to burn all of it on the altar as a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” • “Pleasing aroma” translates a Hebrew expression that literally means “soothing smell,” describing God’s response when the whole offering is consumed. • The burnt offering was totally given over to the flames—nothing held back—symbolizing complete surrender and atonement (Leviticus 1:3-17). • Genesis 8:21 shows the same language after Noah’s sacrifice: “When the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, He said in His heart, ‘Never again will I curse the ground….’” God’s favorable reaction moves Him to mercy. Why the Aroma Was Pleasing • Acceptance – The smoke ascending represents the worshiper’s gift reaching heaven; God acknowledges it as acceptable. • Propitiation – Blood shed and life offered satisfy divine justice (Leviticus 17:11). • Dedication – Whole-burnt offerings were not eaten; they visualized total devotion. • Fellowship – The soothing smell signals restored relationship; wrath subsides, favor returns (Numbers 15:3-7). Christ, the Ultimate Fragrance Ephesians 5:2: “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” • Every Old Testament aroma pointed forward to the cross. • Jesus’ perfect obedience and self-giving death fulfill the pattern, eternally pleasing the Father (Hebrews 10:5-14). • Because His sacrifice is accepted, believers are accepted “in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:6). Our Offerings Today Philippians 4:18: “I have received…your gifts…They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” • Financial gifts, acts of love, words of praise, and lives of obedience rise like incense when done through Christ (Hebrews 13:15-16). • God is not impressed by the material value but by the heart of faith and gratitude (Micah 6:6-8). • The indwelling Spirit empowers offerings that mirror Christ’s fragrance (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). Practical Takeaways • Give wholly, not partially; God delights in undivided devotion. • Rest in Christ’s finished work; our offerings are pleasing because they are presented in Him. • Offer everyday obedience—time, words, service—as spiritual incense. • Cultivate gratitude; a thankful heart sweetens every gift before God. |
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