Meaning of Deuteronomy 27:7

Deuteronomy 27:7 describes the offering of fellowship offerings, also known as peace offerings, at a designated place of worship, emphasizing the communal and joyful nature of this act. These offerings were distinct from sin or burnt offerings, which primarily addressed atonement or devotion. The fellowship offering was a voluntary sacrifice that allowed the worshipper to share a meal with God and with others, symbolizing restored relationship and communion. The instruction to "eat them and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord your God" highlights that this was not a somber obligation but a celebration of God's goodness and provision, a tangible expression of a covenantal relationship marked by peace and fellowship.

Context and Background

This verse is part of Moses' final address to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land, as recorded in Deuteronomy. Chapter 27 specifically details the commands given at Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, where the people were to proclaim blessings and curses. Following the pronouncement of these covenantal stipulations, Moses instructs them on the proper worship practices once they cross the Jordan. The erection of stones and inscription of the Law on them (Deuteronomy 27:1-6) precedes the command regarding fellowship offerings, indicating that worship and obedience are intrinsically linked. The location of these sacrifices was to be a central place designated by God, ensuring unity in worship.

Key Themes and Messages

• Communion and Fellowship: The core message is about sharing in God's presence and experiencing fellowship with Him. The act of eating the sacrifice was a communal meal, a tangible representation of being at peace with God and with one another.
• Joyful Worship: The emphasis on "rejoicing" underscores that worship is not merely duty but an occasion for gladness, celebration, and thanksgiving for God's blessings and covenant faithfulness.
• Restoration of Relationship: Fellowship offerings were often brought in thanksgiving for deliverance, after vows were fulfilled, or simply to maintain a state of peace with God. They signified a harmonious relationship.
• Obedience and Centralized Worship: The instruction to offer these sacrifices at a specific, God-ordained location reinforces the importance of obedience and unified worship within the covenant community.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, the fellowship offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His death on the cross not only atoned for sin but also established a new covenant that allows believers to have direct communion with God. Believers now "eat" of Christ's sacrifice through faith, partaking in His body and blood, as symbolized in the Lord's Supper. This spiritual meal fosters communion with God and with fellow believers, enabling joyful worship and a deep sense of peace. The New Testament encourages Christians to approach God with joy and thanksgiving, reflecting the spirit of the fellowship offering.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The concept of fellowship offerings is a significant thread in the Old Testament sacrificial system, demonstrating God's desire for relationship with His people. It foreshadows the New Testament reality of reconciliation through Christ. Jesus, in John 6:53-56, speaks of eating His flesh and drinking His blood, which is understood as a spiritual participation in His atoning work, leading to eternal life and abiding in Him. The Church, as the body of Christ, experiences this fellowship through worship, the Lord's Supper, and mutual love and support.

Analogies

One analogy for the fellowship offering is a family gathering where a special meal is shared to celebrate a significant occasion or simply to enjoy each other's company. The food is a means of sustenance, but the primary purpose is the fellowship and joy experienced together. Similarly, the fellowship offering was a sacred meal where the worshipper, the priests, and sometimes the poor and needy shared in the bounty provided by God, fostering a sense of community and shared blessing in His presence. Another analogy is a peace treaty signing where representatives share a meal to solidify their renewed relationship.

Relation to Other Verses

• Leviticus 3: This chapter details the laws concerning the fellowship offering, providing the specific requirements for the types of animals, the fat to be offered, and the portions for priests and worshippers.
• Leviticus 7:11-21: This passage further elaborates on the regulations for the fellowship offering, including who may eat of it and the conditions under which it can be eaten.
• Psalm 4:6-7: This psalm echoes the sentiment of rejoicing in God's favor: "Many are saying, 'Who can show us any good?' Let the light of your face shine on us, Lord. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when grain and new wine abound." This reflects the gladness associated with God's blessing, similar to the joy of the fellowship offering.
• 1 Corinthians 10:16-17: This New Testament passage connects the Lord's Supper to communion with Christ and with one another, paralleling the communal aspect of the Old Testament fellowship offering: "Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body; for we all share in that one loaf."