Leviticus 7:28-38
Speak to the people of Israel, saying, Whoever offers the sacrifice of his peace offerings to the Lord shall bring his offering to the Lord from the sacrifice of his peace offerings. – Leviticus 7:29
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus%207%3A28-38&version=ESV
Today’s passage continues to give instructions on the responsibilities of priests in handling the peace offering. As we read through the instructions, a significant principle emerges: God cares for those who serve Him within this framework of shared worship.
This passage highlights how God meticulously designated portions of these offerings for the priests. The breast was a collective share for Aaron and his sons, the entire priesthood (vv.31, 34). This wasn’t a haphazard act of generosity, but a regular provision from the Israelites, a rightful and perpetual due (vv. 34-36), ensuring that those dedicated to mediating between God and His people were consistently supported. It speaks to God’s understanding of human needs; He didn’t intend for His servants to rely on irregular or uncertain gifts.
Furthermore, the act of waving the breast before the Lord as a wave offering before the priests received it is significant (v.30). It underscores that even the provision for God’s servants ultimately comes from Him. It was God’s property, graciously returned to those who served Him. This act of waving acknowledged God’s ownership and the priests’ dependence on God’s generosity.
This passage draws a powerful parallel to the New Testament passage in 1 Corinthians 9. Just as the priests in the tabernacle were supported by those they served, Apostle Paul argued that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel (1 Cor 9:14). This isn’t about entitlement, but about recognising the value of full-time ministry and the shared responsibility of the community to uphold it.
What does this mean for us today? It calls us to reflect on how we support those who lead us in worship and serve the body of Christ. Are we mindful of their needs? Do we recognise the principle that those who minister are worthy of support?
Verse 30 also emphasises the worshiper’s personal involvement in the Peace offering. They had to present it themselves, signifying personal commitment, dedication to God, and the importance of active participation in worship, rather than being a passive observer. This personal act reflected deep engagement and responsibility.
Beyond the financial aspect, this passage also speaks to a partnership in worship. The peace offering involved the offerer, the priest, and the community sharing a meal. It was a tangible expression of peace with God and unity among believers. Just as God provided for the priests within this shared experience, He continues to provide for all who serve Him as we engage in fellowship and worship together.
Let us be reminded that provision for those in ministry isn’t just a practical necessity; it’s an integral part of our shared journey of faith, rooted in God’s own design. It’s a tangible way we participate in the “peace” offered through Christ, supporting those who guide us in experiencing that peace more fully.
Reflection:
How do we actively participate in supporting those who serve God in our community? How can we ensure they are provided for, not out of obligation, but out of a recognition of their valuable work and God’s own provision?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your provision for all Your people, especially those who dedicate their lives to serving You. Help us to be mindful of their needs and to support them generously, recognising that all good things come from You. May our shared worship and fellowship be a testament to Your peace and Your provision. Amen.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus%207%3A28-38&version=ESV
Today’s passage continues to give instructions on the responsibilities of priests in handling the peace offering. As we read through the instructions, a significant principle emerges: God cares for those who serve Him within this framework of shared worship.
This passage highlights how God meticulously designated portions of these offerings for the priests. The breast was a collective share for Aaron and his sons, the entire priesthood (vv.31, 34). This wasn’t a haphazard act of generosity, but a regular provision from the Israelites, a rightful and perpetual due (vv. 34-36), ensuring that those dedicated to mediating between God and His people were consistently supported. It speaks to God’s understanding of human needs; He didn’t intend for His servants to rely on irregular or uncertain gifts.
Furthermore, the act of waving the breast before the Lord as a wave offering before the priests received it is significant (v.30). It underscores that even the provision for God’s servants ultimately comes from Him. It was God’s property, graciously returned to those who served Him. This act of waving acknowledged God’s ownership and the priests’ dependence on God’s generosity.
This passage draws a powerful parallel to the New Testament passage in 1 Corinthians 9. Just as the priests in the tabernacle were supported by those they served, Apostle Paul argued that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel (1 Cor 9:14). This isn’t about entitlement, but about recognising the value of full-time ministry and the shared responsibility of the community to uphold it.
What does this mean for us today? It calls us to reflect on how we support those who lead us in worship and serve the body of Christ. Are we mindful of their needs? Do we recognise the principle that those who minister are worthy of support?
Verse 30 also emphasises the worshiper’s personal involvement in the Peace offering. They had to present it themselves, signifying personal commitment, dedication to God, and the importance of active participation in worship, rather than being a passive observer. This personal act reflected deep engagement and responsibility.
Beyond the financial aspect, this passage also speaks to a partnership in worship. The peace offering involved the offerer, the priest, and the community sharing a meal. It was a tangible expression of peace with God and unity among believers. Just as God provided for the priests within this shared experience, He continues to provide for all who serve Him as we engage in fellowship and worship together.
Let us be reminded that provision for those in ministry isn’t just a practical necessity; it’s an integral part of our shared journey of faith, rooted in God’s own design. It’s a tangible way we participate in the “peace” offered through Christ, supporting those who guide us in experiencing that peace more fully.
Reflection:
How do we actively participate in supporting those who serve God in our community? How can we ensure they are provided for, not out of obligation, but out of a recognition of their valuable work and God’s own provision?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your provision for all Your people, especially those who dedicate their lives to serving You. Help us to be mindful of their needs and to support them generously, recognising that all good things come from You. May our shared worship and fellowship be a testament to Your peace and Your provision. Amen.