Leviticus 3:10

both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys.

Study Bible

both kidneys with the fat on them near the loins
In the sacrificial system of ancient Israel, the kidneys and the fat surrounding them were considered the choicest parts of the animal. The kidneys were seen as the seat of emotions and inner thoughts, symbolizing the innermost being of a person. The fat, often associated with abundance and richness, was considered the best part of the offering and was to be given entirely to God. This reflects the principle of offering the best to God, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament. The location "near the loins" indicates the specific area of the animal, emphasizing precision in following God's instructions for offerings.

and the lobe of the liver
The liver, particularly the lobe, was another significant part of the sacrificial animal. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the liver was often associated with divination and was considered a vital organ. In the context of Leviticus, the inclusion of the liver in the offering underscores the completeness of the sacrifice, as it involves all significant parts of the animal. This completeness can be seen as a foreshadowing of the total sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself wholly for the sins of humanity.

which he is to remove with the kidneys
The removal of these specific parts for the offering highlights the meticulous nature of the sacrificial process. It required careful attention to detail, reflecting the holiness and purity required in approaching God. This act of removal can be seen as a type of sanctification, setting apart what is dedicated to God. The priest's role in this process points to the mediatory work of Christ, who perfectly fulfills the role of the High Priest, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the laws to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and maintaining the rituals as prescribed in the Law.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God and where the sacrifices were offered.

5. Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice described in Leviticus, symbolizing fellowship and communion with God.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sacrificial System
The peace offering was a voluntary act of worship, symbolizing peace and fellowship with God. It teaches us about the importance of intentional worship and gratitude.

Symbolism of the Fat and Organs
The specific parts of the animal (fat, kidneys, liver) were considered the best portions and were offered to God, symbolizing giving our best to Him. This calls us to examine what we offer to God in our lives.

Holiness and Obedience
The detailed instructions for sacrifices highlight God's holiness and the need for precise obedience. This reminds us of the importance of following God's commands with reverence.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The peace offering points forward to Christ, who is our ultimate peace offering, reconciling us to God. This deepens our understanding of the New Covenant and the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to be living sacrifices, offering our lives in service and worship to God. This challenges us to consider how we live out our faith daily.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the peace offering in Leviticus 3:10 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God, and what can we learn from this about our own relationship with Him?

2. In what ways does the detailed description of the sacrificial parts (fat, kidneys, liver) challenge us to consider what we offer to God in our personal lives?

3. How does the concept of offering the best portions to God in Leviticus relate to the idea of being a "living sacrifice" as described in Romans 12?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our worship and service to God are done with the right heart and attitude, as emphasized in 1 Samuel 15 and Psalm 51?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 9?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of the priests and the offerings required, providing context for the sacrificial system.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sacrifice.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system in Leviticus.

1 Samuel 15
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, emphasizing the heart behind the offering.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, which underscores the need for a contrite heart over ritualistic offerings.