Leviticus 7: The Fellowship Offering – Sharing in God’s Peace

Key Verse: Leviticus 7:15 "The meat of their fellowship offering of thanksgiving must be eaten on the day it is offered; they must leave none of it till morning."

Leviticus 7 continues God’s instructions for sacrifices, focusing on the fellowship offering (also called the peace offering). Unlike other sacrifices, this one was special because the worshiper, the priest, and God all shared in it. It was a meal of joy, thanksgiving, and communion with the Lord.

This offering reminds us that worship is not just about sacrifice—it is about relationship. God desires not just our obedience, but also our fellowship with Him.

The Three Types of Fellowship Offerings

The fellowship offering could be given in different ways:

1. A Thanksgiving Offering – Given in gratitude for God's blessings. (Leviticus 7:12-15)

2. A Vow Offering – Given when someone made a promise to God. (Leviticus 7:16)

3. A Freewill Offering – Given as an act of spontaneous devotion. (Leviticus 7:16)

Each of these offerings reflected a heart of worship and appreciation for God’s goodness.

The Rules of the Offering

• The Best Portions Belonged to God – The fat and blood were set apart for Him alone. (Leviticus 7:25-26)

• The Priests Received a Share – They were supported by the offerings of the people. (Leviticus 7:31-34)

• The Worshiper Enjoyed a Meal – The remaining meat was eaten in celebration. But for a thanksgiving offering, it had to be eaten the same day—a sign that gratitude should be immediate, not delayed. (Leviticus 7:15)

This offering was a picture of restored relationship—a joyful time of communion with God and others.

Jesus: Our Ultimate Fellowship Offering

The fellowship offering points to Jesus, who invites us into perfect communion with God.

• Jesus is our peace – Through His sacrifice, we now have fellowship with the Father. (Romans 5:1)

• We share in His table – Just as the Israelites shared the fellowship offering, we partake in the Lord’s Supper as a reminder of our communion with Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:16-17)

• Thanksgiving should be immediate – Just as the offering had to be eaten that same day, we should not delay in giving thanks to God. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

A Lesson for Us

• Are we regularly giving thanks to God, or are we taking His blessings for granted?

• Are we enjoying communion with God, spending time in His presence?

• Are we living at peace with others, reflecting the fellowship Christ calls us to?

Leviticus 7 teaches us that worship is not just about sacrifice—it is about celebration. Through Jesus, we are invited to the ultimate feast of fellowship with God.

Are we living in the joy of that relationship today?