Leviticus 4:10

just as the fat is removed from the ox of the peace offering. Then the priest shall burn them on the altar of burnt offering.

Study Bible

just as the fat is removed from the ox of the peace offering
In the sacrificial system, the removal of fat was a common practice, symbolizing the offering of the best parts to God. The fat, considered the richest part, was reserved for God alone, signifying His holiness and the need for purity in offerings. This practice is consistent with other offerings, such as the peace offering, where the fat was also removed and burned. The peace offering, or fellowship offering, was a voluntary act of worship, expressing thanksgiving and communion with God. The removal of fat in both offerings underscores the importance of giving God the choicest portions, reflecting a heart of reverence and submission.

Then the priest shall burn them on the altar of burnt offering
The act of burning the fat on the altar signifies the complete dedication of the offering to God. The altar of burnt offering, located in the Tabernacle's outer court, was the place where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and restore fellowship with God. The burning of the fat produced a pleasing aroma, symbolizing the acceptance of the offering by God. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly to God, fulfilling the requirements of the law and providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. The priest's role in this process highlights the mediatory function between God and the people, a role perfectly fulfilled by Christ as our High Priest.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the sacrificial rituals as prescribed by the Law.

2. Altar of Burnt Offering
A sacred place where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication.

3. Ox of the Peace Offering
An animal used in the peace offering, which was a voluntary sacrifice expressing gratitude and fellowship with God.

4. Fat
Considered the best part of the animal, it was reserved for God, symbolizing giving the best to Him.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were given the Law to follow, including the sacrificial system for atonement and worship.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priest
The priest's role in the sacrificial system highlights the need for mediation between God and humanity, pointing to Jesus as our High Priest.

Significance of the Altar
The altar represents a place of surrender and dedication. In our lives, we are called to lay down our desires and offer our best to God.

Symbolism of the Fat
Offering the fat symbolizes giving God the best of what we have. In our daily lives, we should prioritize God and offer Him our best efforts and resources.

Understanding Sacrifice
The sacrificial system foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of His love and the completeness of His atonement.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, dedicating our lives to God's service and living in a way that honors Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Leviticus 4:10 point to the work of Jesus as our High Priest?

2. In what ways can we offer our "best" to God in our daily lives, similar to the offering of the fat in the sacrificial system?

3. How does the concept of the altar in the Old Testament relate to the idea of being a living sacrifice in Romans 12:1?

4. What can we learn from the sacrificial system about the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrifices enhance our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Describes the peace offering in detail, providing context for the removal of fat and its significance.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the Law.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system as a form of worship.