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The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Three): The Meal Offering
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering, as described in Leviticus 2, holds a significant place among the offerings, distinct from the burnt offering in its composition and symbolism. It consists of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, representing the fruit of the ground rather than a life given, as in the burnt offering. This offering symbolizes what we owe to man, in contrast to the life we surrender to God, fulfilling our duty to our neighbor. Leviticus 2:9 highlights an important feature of the meal offering: the priest takes a memorial portion from the grain offering and burns it on the altar as an offering made by fire, a sweet aroma to the Lord. Like the burnt offering, it is a sweet savor to God, pleasing Him without any thought of sin, representing a man in perfect obedience offering a sacrifice acceptable to Him. The ingredients of the meal offering carry specific symbolism. Grain must be ground or bruised before it can be used as food, reflecting the necessity of preparation in service. Oil, widely understood as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, represents the anointing and power given for service to man. Frankincense, with its sweet fragrance released under heat, portrays the pleasant satisfaction God experiences when His children endure trials in service without grumbling, especially to their brethren. Salt, required in every sacrifice, preserves from corruption and signifies endurance, purification, and new beginnings, urging faithfulness despite circumstances. In contrast, leaven, forbidden in the meal offering, represents corruption and sin within, a warning against hypocrisy and other corrupting influences that cannot be fully counteracted even by the Holy Spirit's presence in us. The meal offering was not wholly burned on the altar but was consumed between the altar and the priests, indicating it was primarily intended for man, though Leviticus 2:1 states it was to the Lord. This reflects an attitude of service to man as an offering to God, exemplified by Jesus Christ, who gave not only God's portion but also the first part of man's portion, always serving without seeking personal gain or glory.
An Acceptable Offering (Part Two)
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughThe burnt and meal offerings, particularly on Pentecost, depict the requirement that the offering must not be given with a split allegiance.
Offerings (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering (grain offering) represents fulfilling our duty to our neighbor. he materials used in the meal offering symbolize Jesus' perfect character.
Offerings (Part Four)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe peace offering symbolizes the abundant life that results from complete devotion to God (the burnt offering) and service to others (the meal offering).
Offerings (Part Seven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we want to follow Christ, we must sacrifice, take up our cross, and follow His example of service to God and others.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Nine): Conclusion (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThere must be something to prove we are one with Christ and in union with the Father and the Son. That something is the manner in which we conduct our life.
Two Loaves, Baked with Leaven
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe leavening indicates that the wave loaves speak to this life rather than the resurrection. It is accepted by God only because of the other sacrifices.
Fearing God at the Feast (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe Feast is not a celebration just for the sake of having a good time. Our festivities should focus on God's faithfulness, rejoicing in all He did during the year.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the second Great Commandment, love toward fellow man. Our service to others requires much grinding self-sacrifice and surrender.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe meal offering represents the intense self-sacrifice required in service to man. Our service to man must be done for God's sake rather than man's appreciation.
Cain's Assumption (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIs it possible Cain saw himself as the great protagonist, the conqueror of Satan—even the Savior of the world? Did Cain literally have a "Messiah complex"?
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughVarious animals were used in the burnt offering—bullocks, lambs, doves, and goats. Each depicts some characteristic of Jesus that we must emulate as we serve God.
The Commandments (Part Eleven)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughHonor of parents is the basis for good government. The family provides the venue for someone to learn to make sacrifices and be part of a community.
The Parable of the Leaven, Expanded
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBitterness divides one member of Christ's Body from another. Individuals often look for a 'doctrinal' reason to justify leaving a congregation.
Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLove, justice, mercy, and fidelity (the weightier matters of the law) God desires more than meticulous, mechanical religiosity.
The Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Five): The Parable of the Leaven
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsMost commentators see this parable as a positive message of the growth of the church. However, deeper study shows that they have it exactly backward!
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 2): Leaven
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Kingdom of God or of Heaven has past, present, and future aspects. The Kingdom parables primarily provide instruction for the present aspect.