Why is it important to offer "acceptable" sacrifices according to Leviticus 22:21? Leviticus 22:21—The Standard Set by God “When a man presents a peace offering from the herd or flock to the LORD to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering, it must be unblemished to be accepted; there must be no defect in it.” Why Acceptable Sacrifices Matter • God Himself defines what is “accepted”; the worshiper does not set the terms. • An unblemished offering mirrors God’s flawless character—holy, righteous, and perfect. • Defective sacrifices communicate a careless attitude toward the One who deserves the very best. • Acceptance hinges on obedience. Ignoring God’s standard meant rejection (Leviticus 22:25, 29). Reflecting God’s Holiness • Leviticus 19:2—“Be holy, because I, the LORD your God, am holy.” • Bringing a spotless animal tangibly acknowledged God’s own perfection. • Offering less than perfect would blur the line between the sacred and the common. Foreshadowing the Perfect Sacrifice • Every flawless animal pointed ahead to Christ: – Hebrews 9:14—“how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences….” – 1 Peter 1:18-19—“You were redeemed…with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot.” • If Old-Covenant offerings had to be flawless, how much more must the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice be without defect. • God’s insistence on purity in animals prepared hearts to recognize the Sinless Savior. Integrity of the Worshiper’s Heart • Malachi 1:8-9 rebukes priests for presenting blind and lame animals; such offerings expose a divided heart. • Psalm 51:17—“A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” The external offering must match internal sincerity. • Offering the best cost the worshiper something, demonstrating genuine devotion (2 Samuel 24:24). Implications for Believers Today • Though the sacrificial system is fulfilled in Christ, the principle endures: present to God what is worthy. • Romans 12:1—“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual service of worship.” • Excellence in worship, work, and daily obedience honors the Lord who gave His spotless Son. • Acceptable sacrifice today includes pure motives, wholehearted service, and lives conformed to God’s Word (Hebrews 13:15-16). Offering only what is “acceptable” remains vital because it reveals God’s holiness, magnifies Christ’s perfection, and calls believers to wholehearted devotion. |
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