Leviticus 19:7 – “If any of it is eaten on the third day, it is impure and will not be accepted.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Leviticus 19:7 continues the instructions on how to handle the fellowship or peace offerings, specifically focusing on the proper consumption of the sacrificial meat. The verse states that if the meat from the sacrifice is eaten on the third day, it becomes impure and unacceptable to God. This command highlights the importance of following God’s specific instructions and treating what is dedicated to Him with reverence and care.
The idea of the offering becoming impure on the third day emphasizes that sacrifices were not just routine meals but sacred acts of worship. This command serves to remind the Israelites that disobedience or neglect of God’s guidelines renders the offering invalid. It teaches that approaching God with a careless attitude undermines the purpose of the sacrifice and disrespects the holy nature of what has been dedicated to Him.
Historical Context
Leviticus was written during Israel’s wilderness period when the Israelites were learning to live according to God’s laws after their escape from Egypt. At this time, sacrifices were a central part of their worship, serving as a means to maintain fellowship with God, express gratitude, and atone for sins. The fellowship offering, in particular, was meant to symbolize peace and unity between God, the priests, and the offerer.
In this context, the command to consume the sacrifice within a specific time frame was crucial. In ancient times, food preservation was limited, and meat could spoil quickly in the desert environment. The prohibition against eating the meat on the third day helped maintain the health and purity of the community while reinforcing the sacredness of the offering. This context underscores that God’s laws were designed not just for religious observance but also for the practical well-being of His people.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 19:7 highlights the seriousness of obedience in worship. It teaches that God’s standards are not to be taken lightly and that how we approach Him matters. This verse reinforces the idea that worship must be approached with a heart of respect, recognizing God’s holiness. The specific instruction to avoid eating the offering on the third day points to the broader principle that not everything is acceptable to God simply because it is done in His name; it must be done according to His standards.
This verse also illustrates the concept of purity in worship. By declaring that the offering would become impure after the third day, God emphasizes the need to keep what is holy distinct from what is common or defiled. This principle reminds believers that God values the heart and the actions behind our worship, calling us to a standard that honors His nature.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 19:7 uses clear and direct language to convey God’s instructions. The verse employs the conditional “if,” highlighting the choice that each person must make in adhering to God’s commands. The term “impure” underscores the transition from what was once acceptable to something that has lost its value due to neglect or disobedience.
The verse’s placement within a series of commands about sacrificial offerings serves to reinforce the broader theme of holiness and proper worship. It emphasizes that God’s instructions are purposeful and meant to guide His people into a relationship that is marked by reverence and obedience. The literary style of direct commands in Leviticus serves to impress upon the reader the importance of aligning actions with God’s will.
Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 7:18 – “If any meat of the fellowship offering is eaten on the third day, it will not be accepted. It will not be credited to the one who offered it, for it is impure; the person who eats any of it will be held responsible.” This reinforces the warning against eating the offering on the third day, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience.
- Isaiah 1:13 – “Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is detestable to me.” This verse highlights that worship offered without the right heart or in the wrong way is unacceptable to God.
- 1 Corinthians 11:27 – “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.” This New Testament verse echoes the principle that improper participation in sacred acts dishonors God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Leviticus 19:7 is a reminder of the importance of approaching God with sincerity and obedience. While we no longer make animal sacrifices, the principle of treating what is dedicated to God with respect still applies. This verse challenges us to consider our attitudes and actions in worship, ensuring that they align with God’s standards.
In a broader sense, this command teaches us that partial obedience is not enough. Following God requires a complete and heartfelt commitment to His ways. Just as the Israelites were instructed to handle their sacrifices properly, Christians are called to offer their lives as “living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1), doing so in a manner that is pleasing and acceptable to God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 19:7 reflects God’s loving nature by showing that He cares deeply about how His people relate to Him. God’s commands are given not to burden but to guide His people into a meaningful and healthy relationship with Him. The prohibition against eating the offering on the third day is not just about rules; it’s about maintaining the sacredness of the act and protecting the worshiper from harm.
God’s love is evident in His desire for His people to approach Him with the right heart. He provides clear instructions so that they can worship in a way that truly honors Him. This care for detail shows that God values the relationship and wants His people to experience the fullness of His presence without the barriers of disobedience or neglect.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ fulfills the deeper meaning of the sacrificial system, including the instructions found in Leviticus 19:7. Jesus is the perfect offering, wholly acceptable to God without flaw or impurity. His sacrifice on the cross was once and for all, rendering all other sacrifices unnecessary. Hebrews 10:14 states, “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.”
Jesus also taught about the importance of sincerity in worship, criticizing empty rituals and encouraging genuine devotion. In Matthew 15:8-9, He quotes Isaiah, saying, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain.” Through Jesus, we learn that God seeks true worshipers who honor Him in spirit and truth, aligning their actions with His will.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the command to handle the sacrificial offering properly challenge your approach to worship today?
- Are there areas in your life where you might be treating God’s instructions casually or neglecting to follow them fully?
- How does understanding the seriousness of God’s commands affect your view of what it means to live a life dedicated to Him?
- In what ways can you ensure that your acts of worship are genuine and pleasing to God, reflecting a heart that seeks to honor Him?
Reflecting on these questions can help you apply the principles of Leviticus 19:7 to your own life, encouraging you to approach God with reverence and a desire to please Him in all that you do.