Get the appBible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample
The Other 3 R’s
Read Leviticus 17:1-16
For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one's life. Leviticus 17:11
In this chapter dealing with meat consumption, we find three principles that ought to govern our use of earth’s resources.
After the Flood, God gave animals to be food for humans. Additional restrictions were placed on the Israelites (chapter 11), but meat was part of their diet. However, they were not to treat God’s gift frivolously. Firstly, they must RECOGNISE the source of the gift. Animals that could be used in ritual sacrifices had to be slaughtered and eaten in a communal meal before the Lord. No offerings were allowed to idols. Secondly, they must RESPECT God’s gift. Eating blood was forbidden because blood symbolised life which was from God. To eat/drink blood was to dishonour life. Thirdly, the Israelites must RIGHTLY USE God’s gift. God gave them the blood to make atonement for themselves on the altar (v 11).
Are Christians allowed to eat/drink blood? Many Asian delicacies contain blood. Congealed pig blood is a Chinese favourite. Some believe God’s proscription of blood to Noah (Genesis 9:4) still applies to us. The Jerusalem Council reiterated the restriction (Acts 15:20). Our Lord Jesus gave His blood for us (John 6:53-56). Our God has given Himself totally for us!
Today, take note of God’s gifts and use these gifts with care and gratitude.
Read Leviticus 17:1-16
For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one's life. Leviticus 17:11
In this chapter dealing with meat consumption, we find three principles that ought to govern our use of earth’s resources.
After the Flood, God gave animals to be food for humans. Additional restrictions were placed on the Israelites (chapter 11), but meat was part of their diet. However, they were not to treat God’s gift frivolously. Firstly, they must RECOGNISE the source of the gift. Animals that could be used in ritual sacrifices had to be slaughtered and eaten in a communal meal before the Lord. No offerings were allowed to idols. Secondly, they must RESPECT God’s gift. Eating blood was forbidden because blood symbolised life which was from God. To eat/drink blood was to dishonour life. Thirdly, the Israelites must RIGHTLY USE God’s gift. God gave them the blood to make atonement for themselves on the altar (v 11).
Are Christians allowed to eat/drink blood? Many Asian delicacies contain blood. Congealed pig blood is a Chinese favourite. Some believe God’s proscription of blood to Noah (Genesis 9:4) still applies to us. The Jerusalem Council reiterated the restriction (Acts 15:20). Our Lord Jesus gave His blood for us (John 6:53-56). Our God has given Himself totally for us!
Today, take note of God’s gifts and use these gifts with care and gratitude.
Scripture
About this Plan
Scripture Union Peninsular Malaysia's Bible reflections are devotional readings from the thoughts and insights of Asian writers. Consisting of 8 volumes, they cover the whole Bible in four years. Each volume contains books from the Old and New Testaments, and has a mix of historical, poetic and prophetic books, the gospels and epistles. Using this you can cultivate the discipline of a regular, systematic engagement with Scripture and gain an understanding of its magnificent story.
More
We would like to thank Scripture Union for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: http://www.su.org.my
Related Plans
Right From The Heart - Plan Two
The Gospel of Mark (Part Seven)
Precious Moments That Count For Eternity
God’s Story Is Our Story: From Genesis To Jesus
Old and New: Devotions From Time of Grace Ministry
Life Light: Gospel of John
IHCC Daily Bible Reading Plan - February
Live Well
God's Design for the Church
