Leviticus 7:18

If any of the meat from his peace offering is eaten on the third day, it will not be accepted. It will not be credited to the one who presented it; it shall be an abomination, and the one who eats of it shall bear his iniquity.

Study Bible

If any of the meat from his peace offering is eaten on the third day
The peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice made to express gratitude or fulfill a vow. The consumption of the meat was to occur within a specific timeframe, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands. Eating the meat on the third day violated the sanctity of the offering, reflecting a disregard for divine instructions. This regulation underscores the principle of holiness and the need for purity in worship practices.

it will not be accepted
The rejection of the offering if consumed on the third day highlights the importance of adhering to God's laws. Acceptance by God was contingent upon obedience, and deviation from His commands rendered the offering void. This principle is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 15:22, where obedience is valued over sacrifice. The emphasis is on the heart's posture and the sincerity of worship rather than mere ritualistic compliance.

It will not be credited to the one who presented it
The lack of credit for the offering signifies that the act of worship was incomplete and unacceptable. In the context of ancient Israel, offerings were a means of maintaining a covenant relationship with God. The failure to follow God's instructions meant that the intended purpose of the offering—to bring peace and fellowship with God—was not achieved. This serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will to receive His blessings.

it shall be an abomination
The term "abomination" indicates something detestable or repulsive to God. In the Hebrew context, this word is often used to describe actions that are morally or ritually impure. The strong language underscores the severity of the offense and the need for reverence in worship. This concept is seen throughout the Old Testament, where certain practices are deemed abominable due to their incompatibility with God's holiness.

and the one who eats of it shall bear his iniquity
Bearing one's iniquity implies personal responsibility for sin. In the sacrificial system, the consequences of disobedience were often immediate and severe. This phrase indicates that the individual who disregards God's command would face the repercussions of their actions. It reflects the broader biblical theme of accountability before God, as seen in passages like Ezekiel 18:20, where each person is responsible for their own sin. This principle points to the need for repentance and the seriousness of maintaining a right relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Offerer
The individual bringing the peace offering to God, seeking fellowship and communion.

2. The Priest
The mediator who performs the sacrificial rites and ensures the offerings are made according to God's commands.

3. The Peace Offering
A voluntary sacrifice made to express gratitude, fulfill a vow, or seek fellowship with God.

4. The Tabernacle
The sacred place where offerings were made, representing God's presence among His people.

5. The Third Day
A specific time frame indicating the limit for consuming the peace offering, emphasizing obedience and purity.

Teaching Points

Obedience Over Ritual
The regulation of consuming the peace offering within a specific time frame underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands over mere ritualistic practices.

Holiness in Worship
The requirement for the offering to remain pure reflects the need for holiness in our worship and daily lives. We are called to approach God with reverence and purity.

Consequences of Disobedience
The warning that eating the offering on the third day results in bearing iniquity serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance.

Symbolism of the Peace Offering
The peace offering symbolizes fellowship with God, reminding us of the peace we have through Christ and the importance of maintaining a right relationship with Him.

Community and Accountability
The communal aspect of the peace offering encourages accountability within the faith community, as shared worship experiences strengthen bonds and mutual encouragement.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the regulation of consuming the peace offering within a specific time frame reflect the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains pure and holy, avoiding the pitfalls of ritualism?

3. How do the consequences of disobedience in Leviticus 7:18 serve as a warning for us today in our spiritual walk?

4. What parallels can we draw between the peace offering and our relationship with Christ, who is our ultimate peace offering?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and accountability in our church or small group, similar to the communal aspect of the peace offering?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:7
This verse reiterates the importance of consuming offerings within the prescribed time, emphasizing the holiness required in worship.

1 Samuel 15:22
Highlights the principle that obedience to God's commands is more valuable than sacrifice itself.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Encourages believers to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds, drawing a parallel to the peace offerings as acts of worship.

Isaiah 1:11-17
God expresses His desire for genuine worship over ritualistic offerings, aligning with the heart of the peace offering regulations.