Leviticus 7:12

If he offers it in thanksgiving, then along with the sacrifice of thanksgiving he shall offer unleavened cakes mixed with olive oil, unleavened wafers coated with oil, and well-kneaded cakes of fine flour mixed with oil.

Study Bible

If he offers it in thanksgiving
The offering of thanksgiving, also known as the peace offering, was a voluntary act of worship expressing gratitude to God. This type of offering is distinct from sin or guilt offerings, which were mandatory. Thanksgiving offerings were a way for the Israelites to acknowledge God's provision and blessings. The concept of thanksgiving is deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition, as seen in Psalms and other scriptures, where gratitude is a central theme. This offering prefigures the New Testament call to give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

then along with the sacrifice of thanksgiving
The sacrifice of thanksgiving was part of the peace offerings, which were shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer. This communal aspect highlights the fellowship between God and His people. The peace offering symbolizes reconciliation and communion, pointing forward to the ultimate reconciliation through Christ, who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).

he shall offer unleavened cakes mixed with olive oil
Unleavened cakes signify purity and the absence of sin, as leaven often represents sin in the Bible (1 Corinthians 5:6-8). Olive oil, a staple in ancient Israel, symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing (1 Samuel 16:13). The mixing of oil with the cakes indicates the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, foreshadowing the anointing of Christ and the indwelling of the Spirit in the New Covenant.

unleavened wafers coated with oil
The unleavened wafers, like the cakes, emphasize purity and holiness. Coating them with oil further signifies consecration and the work of the Holy Spirit. This imagery is consistent with the anointing of priests and kings in the Old Testament, pointing to Jesus as the Anointed One, the Messiah (Luke 4:18).

and well-kneaded cakes of fine flour mixed with oil
Fine flour represents the best of what one can offer, indicating the quality and sincerity of the worshiper's gift. The well-kneaded nature of the cakes suggests thorough preparation and dedication. Mixing with oil again highlights the role of the Holy Spirit. This offering reflects the believer's call to present themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1), and points to Christ, the Bread of Life, who was without sin and fully consecrated to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the thank offering, representing the Israelites who were commanded to bring offerings to God as expressions of gratitude.

2. The Priest
The mediator who performs the sacrificial rituals, ensuring that the offerings are made according to God's instructions.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where offerings and sacrifices were made.

4. Thank Offering
A type of peace offering given to express gratitude to God, often in response to His blessings or deliverance.

5. Unleavened Cakes and Wafers
Specific types of bread used in the thank offering, symbolizing purity and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Gratitude as Worship
The thank offering teaches us that gratitude is a vital part of worship. We should regularly express our thankfulness to God for His blessings and provision.

Purity in Offering
The use of unleavened bread signifies the need for purity in our offerings to God. Our expressions of gratitude should be sincere and free from ulterior motives.

Community and Fellowship
The thank offering was often shared with others, symbolizing community and fellowship. We should seek to share our blessings and gratitude with those around us.

Symbolism of Oil
The oil mixed with the cakes represents the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives. Our gratitude should be Spirit-led and Spirit-filled.

Consistency in Thanksgiving
Just as the Israelites were instructed to offer thank offerings regularly, we should cultivate a consistent attitude of thankfulness in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the thank offering in Leviticus 7:12 reflect the importance of gratitude in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principles of the thank offering into our modern worship practices?

3. How does the symbolism of unleavened bread in the thank offering relate to the purity of our hearts when we express gratitude to God?

4. What are some practical ways we can share our gratitude with others, similar to how the thank offering was shared in the community?

5. How can the concept of a thank offering help us develop a more consistent attitude of thankfulness in our daily lives, as encouraged in Hebrews 13:15?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 22:29
This verse also discusses the thank offering, emphasizing the importance of offering it in a way that is acceptable to God.

Psalm 50:14
This verse highlights the importance of offering thanksgiving to God, connecting the physical act of offering with the spiritual act of gratitude.

Hebrews 13:15
This New Testament verse encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise, which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to the thank offering.