Leviticus 3:12

If one's offering is a goat, he is to present it before the LORD.

Study Bible

If one’s offering
The phrase "If one’s offering" introduces the conditional nature of the sacrificial system in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near or presented. This reflects the purpose of offerings as a means to draw near to God, emphasizing the relational aspect of worship. The sacrificial system was not merely a ritualistic obligation but a heartfelt act of devotion and obedience, symbolizing the worshiper's desire to maintain a right relationship with God.

is a goat
The choice of a goat as an offering is significant in the context of Levitical sacrifices. Goats were commonly used in various offerings, including sin offerings and peace offerings. The Hebrew word for goat is "עֵז" (ez), which was a valuable animal in ancient agrarian societies. Offering a goat represented a meaningful sacrifice, as it was a staple in the livelihood of the Israelites. The use of a goat also points to the broader sacrificial system where different animals were used to symbolize various aspects of atonement and fellowship with God.

he is to present it
The act of presenting the offering is central to the sacrificial process. The Hebrew verb "קָרַב" (qarab) means to bring near or to present. This action signifies the worshiper's active participation in the sacrificial rite, highlighting the personal responsibility in worship. It underscores the idea that worship is not passive but requires intentionality and engagement. The presentation of the offering is an act of submission and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and holiness.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates the sacredness of the act of sacrifice. The Hebrew term "לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" (lifnei YHWH) means in the presence of or before the face of the LORD. This expression emphasizes the direct encounter with God that the sacrificial system facilitated. It reflects the belief that God is present and attentive to the worship of His people. Offering a sacrifice "before the LORD" is an act of reverence and recognition of God's immediate presence and His role as the ultimate recipient of worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the offering, representing the people of Israel who are seeking to maintain a right relationship with God through sacrificial offerings.

2. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, Yahweh, who established the sacrificial system as a means for His people to express worship, gratitude, and atonement.

3. The Goat
An animal used in the peace offering, symbolizing the offerer's desire for peace and fellowship with God. The goat was a common sacrificial animal in Israelite worship.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where offerings were presented before the LORD, serving as the central place of worship and sacrifice for the Israelites.

5. The Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Levitical system that symbolized fellowship and communion with God, often shared in a communal meal.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrifice
The sacrificial system in Leviticus points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and provides eternal peace with God.

Symbolism of the Goat
The goat as a peace offering symbolizes the offerer's desire for reconciliation and fellowship with God. In Christ, we find the perfect peace offering, reconciling us to God once and for all.

Approaching God with Reverence
The act of presenting an offering before the LORD underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and humility. Our worship today should reflect this same attitude of respect and awe.

Communal Aspect of Worship
The peace offering often involved a communal meal, highlighting the importance of fellowship among believers. Our worship should foster community and unity within the body of Christ.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This is our spiritual act of worship, reflecting the principles of the sacrificial system in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the peace offering in Leviticus 3:12 point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how can this understanding deepen our appreciation for His work on the cross?

2. In what ways can we approach God with the same reverence and humility as the offerer in Leviticus, and how does this impact our personal and corporate worship?

3. How does the communal aspect of the peace offering inform our understanding of fellowship within the church today?

4. What does it mean to present our bodies as living sacrifices, and how can we practically live this out in our daily lives?

5. How can the symbolism of the goat in the peace offering help us understand the concept of reconciliation and peace with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 17:11
This verse explains the significance of blood in the sacrificial system, emphasizing that it is the blood that makes atonement for one's life.

Hebrews 9:22
This New Testament passage highlights the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Romans 5:1
This verse speaks of the peace we have with God through Jesus Christ, drawing a parallel to the peace offering's purpose of establishing fellowship with God.