Leviticus 7:29

"Speak to the Israelites and say, 'Anyone who presents a peace offering to the LORD must bring it as his sacrifice to the LORD.

Study Bible

Speak to the Israelites and say
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of the message. The Israelites, as God's chosen people, were to receive specific instructions on how to live in covenant relationship with Him. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God communicating His will through prophets and leaders, as seen in other instances such as God speaking to Moses in Exodus 3:10.

Anyone who presents a peace offering to the LORD
The peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving, fulfillment of a vow, or freewill offering. It symbolized peace and fellowship between the offerer and God, and among the community. This offering is distinct from sin and guilt offerings, focusing on communion rather than atonement. The peace offering is detailed in Leviticus 3 and is a type of Christ, who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).

must bring it as his sacrifice to the LORD
The act of bringing the offering signifies personal involvement and dedication. Sacrifices were central to Israelite worship, symbolizing devotion and obedience to God. The requirement to bring the offering "to the LORD" underscores the idea that worship is directed solely to God, rejecting idolatry. This anticipates New Testament teachings where believers are called to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), highlighting a life dedicated to God through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws and commandments were given through Moses. They are the primary audience of the Levitical laws.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who established the laws and sacrificial system as a means of maintaining a holy relationship with His people.

3. Fellowship Sacrifice (Peace Offering)
A type of offering in the Levitical system that symbolizes peace and fellowship between the offerer and God. It is a voluntary act of worship, thanksgiving, and communion.

4. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites, including the instructions for sacrifices.

5. The Tabernacle
The place where sacrifices were made, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people during their wilderness journey.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrificial Worship
The fellowship sacrifice is a reminder that worship involves giving back to God a portion of what He has blessed us with. It is an act of gratitude and acknowledgment of His provision.

Symbolism of Peace and Fellowship
The peace offering symbolizes restored fellowship with God. In Christ, we have ultimate peace and reconciliation, which should be reflected in our relationships with others.

Holistic Worship
Just as the Israelites were to bring part of their sacrifice to the LORD, we are called to offer our whole lives as a sacrifice, integrating our faith into every aspect of our daily living.

Community and Sharing
The fellowship offering was often shared with the community, teaching us the importance of communal worship and sharing our blessings with others.

Obedience and Reverence
The specific instructions for sacrifices highlight the importance of obedience and reverence in our relationship with God. We are to approach Him with respect and follow His commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a fellowship sacrifice in Leviticus 7:29 enhance our understanding of worship and gratitude today?

2. In what ways can we offer "spiritual sacrifices" in our daily lives, as suggested by the New Testament?

3. How does the peace offering in the Old Testament foreshadow the peace and reconciliation we have through Jesus Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can foster community and sharing within our church or local community, inspired by the fellowship offerings?

5. How can we ensure that our acts of worship are done with obedience and reverence, reflecting the heart of the sacrificial system in Leviticus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on the fellowship offerings, emphasizing the communal and celebratory nature of this sacrifice.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Encourages believers to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds, drawing a parallel to the spiritual sacrifices in the New Covenant.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is a spiritual act of worship.