The peace offerings and thank offerings.
The unleavened bread and the leavened bread, both offered. The offerings must be quickly eaten, and all uncleanness must be avoided as iniquity. Thus are taught—
I. THE DUTY OF THANKFULNESS.
1. It should be cheerful, glad, pure, speedy.
2. It should be religious, expressed towards God as the Author and Giver of every good gift.
3. It should be social, recognizing both the house of God and family life.
II. THE NECESSITY OF HOLINESS in all things and at all times. Thanks—vows—voluntary offerings;—in all there must be separation to God, and from the corrupt and unclean.
1. In nothing more need of vigilance than in expressing the heart's more joyful feelings. Possibility of prolonging the joy till it becomes corrupt. Hilarity overbalancing the soul. Intemperance in enjoyments.
2. The uncleanness of the world is apt to cling to us. We should especially watch against carrying the impure spirit into the sanctuary. The mind should be free, the heart calm, the soul hungering and thirsting alter spiritual delights, when, on the Lord's day, we enter the courts of his house to offer sacrifice.
3. Fellowship with God's ministers and his services. One voice, but many hearts. True mediation when all alike by faith depending on Christ.—R.