Justin Houtz

Leviticus 3

DateVersionReading Plan
April 3, 2025ESV (2016)OT/NT Plan 2025 – 2027

Leviticus 3

Observation

The LORD through Moses continues instruction on sacrificial offerings with this chapter focusing on peace offerings. Similar to burnt offerings (Lev. 1), instruction is given pertaining to animals from the herds and flocks of the people. The animals provided could be male or female but must be without blemish. The hand of the worshiper was to be placed on the head of the animal and kill it at the entrance of the tent of meeting.

Aaron and his sons were then to throw the blood of the sacrifice against the sides of the altar. The fat on the entrails, two kidneys with the fat on them at the loins, long lobe of the liver along with the kidneys were to be removed and burned on top of the burnt offering, on the wood on the fire. This was to be a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the LORD. The process of peace offering was largely similar between the herd and flock, but the fatty portion offered on the altar for the goat offering did not include the fat tail as described for the sheep (Lev. 3:12).

All the fat belonged to the LORD. It was to be a statute forever throughout their generations and in all dwelling places that the people were to consume neither the fat nor the blood.

Application

The sacrificial system of the Old Testament—with its signification of propitiation for sin, thanksgiving and fellowship with God—was a wonderful manifestation of God’s grace toward His people, but was still not enough to finally and fully remove the consequences of sin, requiring instead a continual offering of sacrifices. The need for a complete, one-time, perfect sacrifice for all men for all times still remained. Praise be to God such an offering has been provided in His Son. Spotless and blameless, He is the worthy Lamb who was slain, all-sufficient to bring about complete redemption with the Father.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace that You lavish upon Your people. How amazing it is to reflect on Your goodness and majesty, O Lord. You alone are worthy of all praise and honor and glory.

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