Leviticus 7:11

Now this is the law of the peace offering that one may present to the LORD:

Study Bible

Now this is the law of the peace offering
The peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering, is one of the five main types of sacrifices described in Leviticus. It signifies reconciliation and communion with God, emphasizing a restored relationship. Unlike the burnt offering, which is entirely consumed, the peace offering allows for a shared meal between the offerer, the priests, and God, symbolizing fellowship. This offering can be seen as a precursor to the communal aspects of the Lord's Supper in the New Testament, where believers share in the body and blood of Christ.

that one may present
The act of presenting an offering underscores the voluntary nature of the peace offering. It is not mandated by sin or guilt but is a freewill act of worship and thanksgiving. This voluntary aspect highlights the personal relationship between the worshiper and God, reflecting the heart's desire to honor and thank the Lord. The presentation of offerings is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, seen in the offerings of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4) and the dedication of the temple by Solomon (1 Kings 8).

to the LORD
The offering is directed to the LORD, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and His people. The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the divine name YHWH, the covenant name of God revealed to Moses. This covenantal aspect is crucial, as it reminds the Israelites of their unique relationship with God, who delivered them from Egypt and established them as His chosen people. The peace offering, therefore, is not just a ritual but a reaffirmation of this covenant relationship. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfills and embodies this covenant, offering peace and reconciliation through His sacrifice on the cross (Ephesians 2:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai, including the instructions for offerings.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and commandments were given, including the laws of offerings.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where offerings and sacrifices were made.

4. The Priests
Descendants of Aaron, responsible for performing the sacrifices and offerings as prescribed by the law.

5. The Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament, symbolizing fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Peace Offering
The peace offering was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and fellowship with God. It teaches us the importance of approaching God with a heart of thanksgiving and praise.

Symbolism of Fellowship
The peace offering symbolizes restored fellowship with God. In our lives, we should seek to maintain a close and personal relationship with God through prayer and worship.

Christ as Our Peace
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the peace offering. Through His sacrifice, we have peace with God. This should lead us to live in harmony with others and share the message of reconciliation.

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

Gratitude and Worship
The peace offering reminds us of the importance of gratitude. Regularly expressing thanks to God in our prayers and actions is a vital part of our spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the peace offering in Leviticus 7:11 reflect the relationship between God and the Israelites?

2. In what ways can we offer a "peace offering" to God in our daily lives today?

3. How does understanding the peace offering enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice?

4. What are some practical ways we can live as "living sacrifices" in our communities?

5. How can the principles of the peace offering guide us in our worship and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on how the peace offerings are to be made, emphasizing the importance of offering the best portions to God.

Hebrews 13:15
Encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, connecting the Old Testament peace offerings to New Testament worship.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, which is a spiritual act of worship, reflecting the heart of the peace offering.

Psalm 50:14
Highlights the importance of offering thanksgiving to God, which aligns with the purpose of the peace offering.

Ephesians 2:14-16
Speaks of Christ as our peace, who has reconciled us to God, fulfilling the ultimate purpose of the peace offering.