The Peace Offering – Communion (Lev. 3.1-17)

Now we come to the third of the five types of offerings in the Book of Leviticus. The first offering was the burnt offering and symbolized consecration. The second offering was the meat (or meal) offering and represented commitment. The third offering is the peace offering and will symbolize communion.

The peace offering reflects the relationship between the worshiper and his God. The meal, shared with the priest—God’s representative to man—serves as a sign of fellowship with God and aligns with His plan. Many of God’s people need to offer a peace offering to participate in God’s program. We are distant from God’s man and His plan. We need to align ourselves with the program, and today, God’s program is the New Testament (NT) local church. The peace offering is a test of our communion with God.

1. Sources for the Peace Offering

Just like the burnt offering, we find several sources for the offering. The instructions mention a possible offering from the herd, the flock, or from among the goats. I believe that in God’s work, there are three types of people: workers for God, waiters upon God, and rebels from God. God can use all three in His service if they submit to His leadership.

1. The Herd, 3:1-5, The herd is often symbolized by the ox, representing the servant or worker. Some people labor in the work of the Lord and are not afraid to work. They are eager to serve God and generally have a servant’s heart.
2. The Flock, 3:6-11. The term ‘flock’ generally refers to sheep and lambs. When describing His people, God often portrays us as sheep. Sheep are followers by nature; they usually lack motivation on their own and need to be led at every step. Sheep tend to wander and go their own way (Isa 53:6). Praise the Lord for the Good Shepherd who will never lead us astray. Sheep can be lazy and need encouragement to step out for God and do what is right. Most of us probably identify with this behavior when it comes to spiritual matters.
3. A Goat, 3:12-16. And then there are the goats. Goats will eat just about anything. God’s people who are goats will have little discernment about good food and bad food. Goats will butt and thrust to get into the first place. Paul warned us not to fuss and fight with one another, lest we bite and devour one another and thereby be consumed by our own lusts (Gal. 5:15).

But you see, all these animals—whether cattle, sheep, or goats—could be offered in sacrificial service. We all have different personalities, attitudes, and desires. God wants to use them all. The spirit of rebellion can be directed against the forces of evil and darkness. The spirit of waiting on the Lord and following His commands can be cultivated as God builds an army of trained soldiers to carry out His will. The spirit of servitude can be applied in any part of the ministry. But you see, we need to make an offering if God is to use us. And we must submit to His service if we want to be employed. (LEH)