Where Are We? — Leviticus 3

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Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC
  • Location:
    • Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2)
    • Tabernacle (Lev 1:1)

Where Are We in the Text?

  • The LORD gives instruction concerning the peace offering, specifying acceptable animals from the herd or flock (Lev 3:1–6).
  • Detailed directions are provided for the handling of the blood and the burning of the fat upon the altar (Lev 3:2–5, 8–11, 12–16).
  • A perpetual statute is declared prohibiting the eating of fat and blood (Lev 3:16–17).

Key Persons

  • The LORD — Giver of instruction concerning the peace offering (Lev 3:1).
  • Moses — Mediator receiving instruction on behalf of Israel (Lev 3:1).
  • Aaron’s sons (the priests) — Responsible for sprinkling the blood and burning the fat upon the altar (Lev 3:2, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16).

Where Are We in Time?

  • The chapter follows the institution of the burnt offering and the meat (grain) offering (Lev 1–2).
  • Israel remains encamped at Sinai with the tabernacle in full operation (Exod 40:34–38).
  • The sacrificial system continues to be defined while Israel remains at Sinai.

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Tabernacle: Central sanctuary where peace offerings are presented and handled (Lev 3:1–2).
  • Wilderness of Sinai: Location of Israel’s encampment during covenant instruction (Exod 19:1–2).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • Israel continues functioning as a covenant nation under the Mosaic Law with regulated worship offerings (Exod 24:7–8; Lev 3).
  • The peace offering operates within the Mosaic sacrificial system as an offering of fellowship and covenant participation.
  • Priestly mediation and altar worship are maintained according to divine statute.

Why This Matters

  • The chapter establishes the peace offering within the Mosaic sacrificial framework (Lev 3).
  • It defines restrictions regarding fat and blood as perpetual statutes under the Law.

How This Chapter Relates to What Follows

  • Instruction will proceed to the sin offering, addressing unintentional transgression (Lev 4).
  • The sacrificial system will continue to be expanded and clarified (Lev 1–7).

Summary Orientation

  • Instructions are given for the peace offering from the herd and the flock (Lev 3:1–16).
  • Priestly handling of blood and fat is specified (Lev 3:2–16).
  • A perpetual statute regarding fat and blood is established (Lev 3:16–17).
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