Definition and Purpose:
Peace-offerings, also known as fellowship offerings, are a category of sacrifices in the Old Testament that symbolize reconciliation and fellowship between the offerer and God. These offerings are distinct from sin and guilt offerings, as they are not primarily for atonement but for expressing gratitude, fulfilling vows, or celebrating a restored relationship with God.

Biblical Foundation:
The peace-offering is detailed in the book of Leviticus, where it is described as a voluntary act of worship. Leviticus 3 outlines the procedures for offering a peace-offering, which could be from the herd or flock, either male or female, without blemish. The offering was to be presented at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, and the blood was to be sprinkled on the altar.

The Offerer Required: To Give It Freely:
A key aspect of the peace-offering is that it must be given freely by the offerer. This voluntary nature is emphasized in Leviticus 7:16 : "If, however, the sacrifice he offers is a vow or a freewill offering, it is to be eaten on the day he presents his sacrifice, but anything left over may be eaten on the next day." The freewill aspect underscores the offerer's desire to willingly express gratitude or fulfill a vow to God, reflecting a heart of devotion and thankfulness.

Components of the Offering:
The peace-offering included the fat covering the entrails, the kidneys, and the lobe of the liver, which were to be burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 3:3-5). The breast and right thigh were given to the priests as their portion (Leviticus 7:31-34), while the remaining meat was shared in a communal meal, symbolizing fellowship with God and among the participants.

Spiritual Significance:
The peace-offering represents the peace and communion between God and His people. It is a celebration of the covenant relationship, acknowledging God's provision and faithfulness. The communal aspect of the meal highlights the unity and fellowship among the worshipers, as they partake in the blessings of God's presence together.

New Testament Fulfillment:
In the New Testament, the concept of peace with God is fulfilled through Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate peace-offering. Ephesians 2:14 states, "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." Through Christ's sacrifice, believers are reconciled to God, enjoying eternal peace and fellowship with Him.

Practical Application:
While the specific rituals of peace-offerings are no longer practiced, the principles behind them remain relevant. Believers are encouraged to offer their lives as living sacrifices, expressing gratitude and devotion to God (Romans 12:1). The spirit of giving freely and joyfully continues to be a hallmark of Christian worship and service.Leviticus 19:5
And if you offer a sacrifice of peace offerings to the LORD, you shall offer it at your own will.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Scriptural Types.
... It was required by the law that all the sacrificial ... also received specified portions
from the peace-offerings of the ... (1.) In all cases the offerer laid his ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm

Interpretation of Prophecy.
... all the males among the people were required to repair ... The reference is to the
peace-offerings of the people ... been burned on the altar, the offerer feasted with ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxviii interpretation of prophecy.htm

Nature of Covenanting.
... the fulfilment of the vow is required, at least ... meat-offering, or if to offer
peace-offerings thereon." And ... of the transaction and the offerer"every command ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter i nature of covenanting.htm

The Synoptic Gospels
... heavy as that which is required to change ... offerings, but burnt offerings and peace
offerings, it is ... covering," or neutralizing, the offerer's unworthiness to ...
/.../denney/the death of christ/chapter 1 the synoptic gospels.htm

What is a peace offering / fellowship offering? | GotQuestions.org

What is a free will offering / freewill offering? | GotQuestions.org

What were the various sacrifices in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org

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