Tag Archives: Spiritual disciplines

The Day of Atonement and the Believer’s ‘Once and For All” Sacrifice (Leviticus 15; Leviticus 16)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 15-16

Leviticus 15

Laws Concerning Ceremonial Uncleanness

Having addressed the dreaded scourge of leprosy in the two chapters before today’s Scripture reading, the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron regarding other afflictions that would render a worshipper ceremonially unclean. As such, one would not be permitted to approach the Tabernacle to worship and offer sacrifices.

Leviticus 15:1-17 addressed men with various physical ailments that rendered not only their flesh, but also their clothes and bed linens unclean (15:3-13). Strict guidelines were given to inhibit the spread of disease among the people and to remind men not to approach the LORD lightly without bringing an offering (15:14-17).

Detailed guidelines were to be observed by women who had an issue of blood (Leviticus 15:18-33). For the sake of women’s health, the LORD gave instructions that applied not only to their menstrual cycles (15:20-24), but also to irregular issues of blood that might arise and she be deemed unclean (15:25-27). When a woman’s time passed, she was to present required offerings on her eighth day and be declared clean.

Why were those guidelines important? Not only for hygienic reasons, but also as a reminder to Israel that the LORD set them apart from the nations and called them to be holy (15:31).

Leviticus 16

The Day of Atonement and the Sacrifices Offered

Leviticus 16 is a crossroads in our study of the Book of Leviticus. The text moves from the descriptions of various offerings and the guidelines concerning them to the commencement of sacrificial offerings by Aaron, the high priest.

We are reminded that the office of the high priest was a holy office, and Aaron’s ministry on behalf of the people was a sacred duty. Therefore, the LORD instructed Moses, “Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the vail before the mercy seat, which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat” (16:2).

As high priest, Aaron entered the holy place, the “holy of holies,” once a year (16:2) on “the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month” (16:29). That day, known as the Day of Atonement, and as “Yom Kippur” and the “Sabbath of Sabbaths,” was the holiest day on God’s calendar. Six months after the observance of the Passover, the Day of Atonement was the day the high priest offered sacrifices for his sins (16:3, 6) and the nation’s sins (16:5, 8-10, 15a).

Casting lots upon the goats, the one upon which the lot fell would be offered as a “sin offering” (16:9). In contrast, the other goat would be the “scapegoat” (16:10). The high priest would first sacrifice the young bull for his sins, taking its blood and sprinkling it upon the mercy seat (16:14). He would then offer the goat that was the sin offering for the nation, and take its blood to sprinkle upon the mercy seat (16:15) as an atonement “because of their transgressions in all their sins” (16:16). The blood of the young bull, and the blood of the goat was then sprinkled upon the altar (16:18).

The live goat, identified as the scapegoat, was brought to Aaron. The Scripture says he was to lay “both his hands upon the head of the live goat and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: ²²And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness” (16:21-22). The “fat of the sin offerings” was burned upon the altar. In contrast, the bullock and goat’s skins and flesh were burned out of the camp (16:25, 27-28).

The Day of Atonement, like the Passover, was observed annually by Israel. The pattern of blood sacrifices was a perpetual reminder that the penalty of sin is death, and there can be no forgiveness of sins apart from the shedding of blood, for “without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22).

Closing thoughts:

Once a year, and every year, the high priest offered sacrifices for the people’s sins until Christ was sacrificed for our sins. According to the author of the Book of Hebrews, Jesus Christ is the believer’s sacrifice and high priest (Hebrews 9:24-28) who “was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28).

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The Leper and the Portrait of Sin (Leviticus 13; Leviticus 14)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 13-14

Our study of what the LORD declared “unclean” continues, focusing on poor souls afflicted with leprosy. The ancient scourge of leprosy was the subject of Leviticus 13 and 14.

Known today as “Hansen’s Disease” (HD), leprosy is a bacterial, infectious disease that is treatable, even curable, in the 21^st century. In ancient times, however, it was a dreaded disease. The victims of leprosy were forced into isolation from family and friends, and society drove them to leper colonies, where they eventually died. In ancient times, Egypt was infested with leprosy, and its traces followed the children of Israel out of that country.

Leviticus 13

Laws and Regulations for Leprosy (13:1-59)

The LORD continued His commands regarding the “unclean,” which required Moses and Aaron to address, diagnose, and exclude lepers from the tribes of Israel (Leviticus 13:1-59). To protect His people, the LORD commanded the steps required to protect Israel from the spread of leprosy.

First, the disease needed to be correctly diagnosed. Often beginning as no more than a rash or boil, the disease could eventually produce terrible, open sores and decaying flesh. In the advanced stages, the leper would suffer from rotting extremities. Soiled by the oozing nature of the sores, the leper’s clothes would be rent as an outward sign of mourning. Then, wearing a napkin to cover his mouth, the leper would cry “Unclean, unclean” (13:45) to any who approached, thus warning others they were carriers of the disease.

Leviticus 14

Guidelines for Ceremonial Cleansing of the Leper

Should a leper be miraculously healed of the disease, ceremonial steps and sacrifices were prescribed to ensure the legitimacy of the healing and his purification. Finally, after following the prescribed rites for cleansing, the leper was deemed clean by the high priest and restored to the fellowship of his family and nation (14:9-32).

Spiritual Application

Leprosy was the physical disease God chose to illustrate the infectious nature of sin among his people. For example, consider the number of times leprosy was described as “unclean” in Leviticus 13 (13:3, 8, 11, 14, 15, 20, 22, 25, 27, 30, 36, 44, 45, 46, 51, 55, 59). Like sin, leprosy is more than a surface issue of the outward man. Untreated, leprosy inevitably infects the tissues, nerves, and body until the extremities rot and decay. The disease so scarred the body of its victim that it was an unbearable ugliness.

Closing thoughts: The ancients had no cure for leprosy, and so the leper prayed earnestly for miraculous healing, a divine intervention. Should the LORD answer his prayers, the leper would be examined by the high priest and if declared “clean,” he would offer sacrifices of thanksgiving (Leviticus 14).

Because of the nature of leprosy, it provided a spiritual portrait of sin’s impact on the soul. Modernists and liberals would have you believe a man is born innocent and his environment (i.e., home, society, religion) is the cause of his societal deprivations. The Scriptures, however, declare “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). Paul likened sin to a physical ailment and wrote, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing” (Romans 7:18). Jesus taught His disciples, “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: ²⁰ These are the thingswhich defile a man” (Matthew 15:19-20).

Despite man’s efforts, humanity has no cure for sin and depravity. As the leper faced certain death without the LORD intervening, so the sinner faces death and hell if he refuses God’s offer of grace and forgiveness through Christ. In God’s eyes, we are spiritual lepers. Yet, in the words of the prophet Isaiah, “[The Messiah, Jesus Christ]hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. ⁵ But he [Christ] was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:4-5).

I invite you to confess that you are a spiritual leper, and believe in your heart that Christ, the perfect, sinless Son of God died on the Cross for your sins, was buried, and raised from the dead. To those who believe, the Scriptures promise:

1 John 5:13 – ¹³These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

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The Aaronic Priesthood: Consecration and Dedication (Leviticus 9)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 9

The Consecration of the Priesthood on the Eighth Day (9:1-7)

When seven days of consecration were completed (Leviticus 8:33-36), on the eighth day, Moses summoned “Aaron and his sons, and the elders of Israel” (9:2). Aaron, whom the LORD chose to be Israel’s high priest, was commanded by Moses to prepare to offer sacrifices for himself and his sons.

The first sacrifice Aaron offered was “a sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering, without blemish” (9:2). Before Aaron offered the sacrifices for himself and his sons, Moses commanded “the children of Israel” to take “a kid of the goats for a sin offering; and a calf and a lamb, both of the first year, without blemish, for a burnt offering; ⁴Also a bullock and a ram for peace offerings, to sacrifice before the Lord; and a meat offering mingled with oil” (9:3-4).

The sacrifices were required for Aaron, his sons, and the people to be in the LORD’s presence (9:4b, 6b). The people, having brought what the LORD required, gathered “before the tabernacle of the congregation: and all the congregation drew near and stood before the Lord” (9:5).

Moses then commanded Aaron, “Go unto the altar, and offer thy sin offering, and thy burnt offering, and make an atonement for thyself, and for the people: and offer the offering of the people, and make an atonement for them; as the Lord commanded” (9:7).

A Sin and Burnt Offering for the Priest (9:8-14)

Why was Aaron commanded to offer a sacrifice for himself and his sons?

With the congregation looking on, Aaron “slew the calf of the sin offering” for himself and his sons who served as priests (9:7). The requirement of a “sin offering” before the congregation left no doubt that Aaron and his sons were like all men, sinners who needed a substitutionary sacrifice for their sin.

Aaron’s sons then brought the blood of the calf to him, “and he dipped his finger in the blood, and put it upon the horns [corners] of the altar, and poured out the blood at the bottom of the altar” (9:9). The choice parts of the calf, “the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering,” were “burnt upon the altar; as the Lordcommanded Moses” (9:9-10).” Then, the flesh and hide of the “sin offering,” was burned outside Israel’s encampment as required by the Law (Leviticus 4:11-12). Aaron also slew, and offered “a ram for a burnt offering, without blemish” (9:2b, 12-14).

Aaron, Serving as High Priest, Offered Sacrifices for the People (9:15-21)

After he fulfilled the command to offer sacrifices for himself and his sons (9:1-14), Aaron offered four sacrifices for the children of Israel.

Aaron took and slew “the goat, which was the sin offering…and offered it for [the sins]” of the people (9:15). He then offered “the burnt offering” that was “a calf and a lamb, both of the first year, without blemish” (9:3b, 16). The third offering was “the meat [lit. meal or grain] offering,” and it was burned on the altar as a sacrifice of praise and gratitude (9:17) on behalf of the nation.

Finally, as a symbol of communion with the LORD, Aaron “slew also the bullock and the ram for a sacrifice of peace offerings, which was for the people” (9:18a). As with the other sacrifices, “Aaron’s sons presented unto him the blood [of the peace offerings], which he sprinkled upon the altar round about” (9:18b).

Then, as Israel’s high priest, Aaron invoked God’s blessings on the nation and “lifted up his hand toward the people, and blessed them, and came down from offering of the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and peace offerings” (9:22).

Closing thoughts (9:23-24):

After Aaron invoked God’s blessings on the people, he and Moses entered the Tabernacle. When they “came out, and blessed the people…the glory of the Lord appeared unto all the people” (9:23). Then, in a powerful affirmation of all that was done, “there came a fire out from before the Lord, and consumed upon the altar the burnt offering and the fat” (9:24). The people were so moved by what they saw that they “shouted, and fell on their faces” (9:24b).

Questions to Consider:

Moses summoned Aaron, his sons, and “the elders of Israel” on the eighth day (Leviticus 9:1). Where had Aaron and his sons been before that day? (Leviticus 8:35-36)

If the people obeyed Moses as the LORD commanded, what did he promise they would see? (Leviticus 9:6)

Why did Aaron slay the goat? (Leviticus 9:15)

How did the LORD demonstrate that He accepted the sin offerings of the people? (Leviticus 9:24)

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The Holy Calling of the PastorShepherd (Leviticus 7; Leviticus 8)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 7-8

Leviticus 7

Our study of the various sin offerings required by the Law continues in Leviticus 7, where we are introduced to “the law of the trespass offering,” a sacrifice identified with an individual’s sin.

The Trespass or Guilt Offerings (7:1-10)

Following similar guidelines as the “burnt offering” (Leviticus 1), the “trespass offering” (also known as the guilt or reparations offering) was sacrificed by an individual whose sins caused others to suffer harm or loss.

Unlike the “burnt offerings,” the priests were permitted to take a portion of the guilt or trespass offerings (7:5-7). Also, the skin or hide of the offering was the priest’s, as were other parts (including the meat or grain offering and oil, 7:8-10).

The Peace Offering (7:11-27)

Leviticus 7:11-21 described the peace offering, which acknowledged God’s grace and offered thanksgiving to Him for His mercies. Because it was a free-will offering, this was the only offering the donor could partake in. Prescribed for the peace offering was the sacrifice of oxen which was accompanied by offerings of “unleavened cakes…unleavened wafers…and cakes mingled with oil, of fine flour, fired” (7:12). The portions of the peace offering not consumed by the fire were given to the priests for their consumption.

The “fat of the beast” and “blood” portions of the offerings not to be eaten were stated in Leviticus 7:22-27 (the specific parts of the “fat of the beast” that were forbidden were also described in Leviticus 3:3-4, 9). Notice as well that the blood of sacrifices was never to be consumed because it was the means of atonement (17:11). The penalty for consuming that which God had forbidden (the “fat of the beast,” or the “blood”) was egregious, for it meant to “be cut off from” the congregation (7:25, 27).

I will consider in a future study the priests’ share of the peace offering (7:28-38).

Leviticus 8 – The Consecration of the Priesthood

The Public Ordination of Priests (8:1-6)

Leviticus 8 established the Levitical priesthood and consecrated Aaron and his sons to serve before the LORD on behalf of the nation (8:1-5). Each step of the ordination was detailed, beginning with a ceremonial washing of Aaron and his sons with water (8:6).

The Dedication of the Tabernacle and the High Priest (8:7-12)

As the high priest, Aaron was distinguished by his garments (8:7-9). Exodus 28 and Exodus 39 described the high priest’s garments, including his breastplate (8:8), upon which twelve precious stones were mounted. Referred to as “the breastplate of judgment,” the names of the Twelve Tribes of Israel were engraved on those stones (Exodus 28:30).

As an act of dedication and consecration to the LORD, anointing oil was sprinkled upon the Tabernacle, its implements, the altar, and the laver (where the priests washed their hands and feet). Because he was the high priest, anointing oil was poured upon Aaron’s head and served as an outward testimony of his sanctification (meaning he was set apart for ministry, 8:10-12).

The Sin Offering and Consecration of the High Priest and His Sons (8:13-36)

Acknowledging that the high priest and his sons served as priests and yet were sinners, Aaron and his sons laid their hands upon a “bullock (or Ox) for the sin offering.” The bullock served as a symbol of sin atonement (8:14-17). A ram was also brought as a “burnt offering,” and its blood was applied to Aaron and his sons “upon the tip of their right ear, and upon the thumbs of their right hands, and upon the great toes of their right feet” (8:23-24).

Aaron and his sons remained at the tabernacle for seven days as Moses offered sacrifices and consecrated those men to the LORD as priests (8:31-36). Then, as we will see, on the eighth day, Aaron and his sons began to minister before the LORD and offered sacrifices for the people (Leviticus 9:1-24).

Closing thoughts:

As I close today’s devotion, I am reminded of the great responsibility borne by those who minister before the LORD for God’s people. Offering sacrifices is no longer necessary because Christ is our substitutionary sacrifice and high priest (Hebrews 7:25-28). Nevertheless, the LORD has called and ordained men whom He has set apart to shepherd His people spiritually (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:1:7-9).

The pastor’s work as a shepherd is described in 1 Peter 5:2-4, where we read: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; ³ Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. ⁴ And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”

Such is the great calling of the pastor. He is to be a teacher, shepherd, and spiritual leader in word and example. (1 Timothy 5:11-12)

Questions to Consider:

1) Who could eat some of the trespass (guilt) offerings? (Leviticus 7:6)

2) Where was Moses when God gave him the law concerning the sacrifices to be offered to Him? (Leviticus 7:38)

3) Where were Aaron and his sons ordained to the priesthood? (Leviticus 8:2-4)

4) What was the consequence if Aaron or his sons disobeyed the LORD and abandoned their place of consecration? (Leviticus 8:35)

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Reparations and Secret Sins (Leviticus 5; Leviticus 6)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 5-6

Leviticus 5:1-13 – Trespass Offerings

Continuing our study of the sacrificial offerings, we come to the “Trespass Offerings” for particular offences. Referred to by some as “Purification” offerings, three sins required “trespass offerings.”

Three Offenses Required “Trespass Offerings” (5:1-5)

The first was an offering for the sin of omission. For example, a man was judged guilty of “swearing” under oath if he failed to report all he had seen or heard. Failure to bear witness was a sin, and a sacrifice was necessary to atone (5:1).

Understanding dead and decaying animals carry disease, a second offense that obliged a trespass offering was for touching, and thereby being defiled, by a lifeless body of beasts, cattle, or other creatures (5:2). Even if unintentional, a man was deemed guilty of an offense until he offered a trespass offering for his sin (5:3).

Because a man’s word was binding, a third offense was to swear an oath and fail to keep it. Such was a sin and required a trespass offering (5:4-5).

Three Types of “Trespass Offerings” (5:6-13)

Three trespass, or purification offerings, might be offered to atone for a sinner’s guilt (5:6-13). Because the LORD is just, the economic means of the guilty dictated the amount required as the offering. A man of wealth who committed a trespass was to bring “a female from the flock, a lamb or a kid of the goats, for a sin offering; and the priest [would] make an atonement for him concerning his sin” (5:6).

Should a man not have the financial means to offer a lamb or goat, he might offer “two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the Lord; one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering” (5:7). Then, the blood of the sacrifice would be sprinkled on the altar, and declared a “sin offering” (5:9).

Finally, should a man be so poor he was unable to bring the lesser trespass offering (“two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, unto the LORD”), he would “bring for his offering the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no oil upon it, neither shall he put any frankincense thereon: for it is a sin offering” (5:11).

Leviticus 5:14-6:7

Reparation Offerings (5:13-16)

Unlike the trespass offerings, a reparation or compensation offering was mandatory when a man failed to give what the LORD required. An example would be a man’s failure to give “in the holy things of the LORD” (i.e., a tithe or offering of first fruits) as the Law required. To make amends, a sinner was required to offer both “a ram without blemish” (5:14-15) and an additional sacrifice described as “the fifth part” (5:16). Giving a “fifth part” meant that the reparations sacrifice was equal to 120% more than what the Law required.

Ignorance of the Law is No Excuse (5:17-19)

We are reminded that sinning, even if the guilty know “it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity” (5:17). To state the same truth in another form: There are times when saying, “I’m sorry,” is not enough! Though pleading ignorance, the LORD required a trespass offering, and the guilty would “bring a ram without blemish out of the flock [and it would be]…a trespass offering: he hath certainly trespassed against the Lord” (5:18-19).

Leviticus 6

The Law Demands Respect and Decency (6:1-7)

Leviticus 6:1-7 continued the Law’s demand for reparations (which began in Leviticus 5) and addressed offenses that arose with others. Trespass offerings were demanded if a man sinned in lying, committing fraud, perpetrating strong-arm theft, deceived, or violated another’s ownership by claiming: “finders keepers” (6:3). The Law demanded the injured party would be made whole (6:4-5), and a trespass offering be brought to the priest to “make an atonement” (6:6-7).

Leviticus 6:8-30

Guidelines for the “burnt offering” were recorded, as well as the protocol of the priests’ dress when ministering before the LORD and the people (6:8-30). Much more might be discussed in trespass offerings and reparations; however, I will leave this study for another time.

Closing thoughts: What was the LORD teaching His people?

He taught the need to respect, have a sensitive conscience towards fellowmen, and understand one’s accountability before the LORD. After all, as we have been reminded:

There is no such thing as a secret sin!

Questions to Consider:

1) An adage goes, “Silence is golden,” however, that was not true when called upon to serve as a witness. Who was responsible if they witnessed their neighbor’s sin? (Leviticus 5:1)

2) Could ignorance of the law excuse one’s guilt? (Leviticus 5:17-19)

3) What did the Law demand when a person’s actions injured or caused a neighbor to suffer loss? (Leviticus 6:4-7)

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Sacrifices for Sins of Ignorance (Leviticus 4)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 4

Our study of sacrifices continues with the sacrifices to be offered for a “sin through ignorance against any of the commandments of the LORD” (4:1). A “sin through ignorance” was not a willful violation of the Law and ordinances of God, but an oversight, unintentional defilement that was nevertheless a sin.

The Sin Offering for the Priest (4:1-12)

Leviticus 4:1-12 examined the sacrifices a priest was instructed to offer when he was guilty of sinning through ignorance. Identifying with the young bull that would be sacrificed for his sin, the priest was asked to bring “a young bullock without blemish unto the Lord for a sin offering” (4:3). At the door of the Tabernacle; the priest would “lay his hand upon the bullock’s head, and kill the bullock before the Lord” (4:4). After anointing himself and the altar with the blood of the sacrifice (4:5-7), the priest would flay the bull and burn the choice parts on the burnt offer (4:8-10), taking the rest outside the camp where it would be burned (4:11-12)

The Sin Offering for the Congregation (4:13-21)

Leviticus 4:13-21 addressed the sacrifices offered for “the whole congregation of Israel “sins through ignorance” (4:13). The “elders of the congregation,” acting on behalf of the people, were instructed to “lay their hands upon the head of the bullock before the Lord: and the bullock [would] be killed before the Lord” (4:15). The handling of the young bull that was sacrificed followed the same guidelines as those noted earlier (4:16-21). Thus, the leaders of Israel identified the slaying of the bull as a sacrifice for the nation’s sins.

The Sin Offering for a Leader (4:22-26)

Should a leader of the people sin “through ignorance against any of the commandments of the Lord his God concerning things which should not be done, and is guilty” (4:22), he was instructed to “bring his offering, a kid of the goats, a male without blemish” (4:23). Placing his hand on the young goat, the leader identified the killing and the burning of the goat as his “sin offering” (4:24). As an atonement for the leader’s sin, the blood of the goat was applied to the “horns” or raised corners of the altar (4:25). The fat was burned upon the altar (4:26), and was “an atonement.” The leader was assured his sin was forgiven (4:26b).

The Sin Offering for Individuals (4:27-35)

Not to be overlooked were the sins of the “common,” ordinary citizens of Israel who, like the priests and leaders, found themselves guilty of “sin through ignorance” (4:27). When such a sin came to one’s knowledge, the “common people” were instructed to “bring [their] offering, a kid of the goats (or a lamb, 4:32), a female without blemish, for his sin which he hath sinned” (4:28). As with other sacrifices, the penitent sinner was instructed to “lay his hand upon the head of the sin offering, and slay the sin offering in the place of the burnt offering” (4:29).

The priest, acting as mediator, would take the blood of the sacrifice, put the blood on the “horns” or the corners of the altar, and then “pour out all the blood thereof at the bottom of the altar” (4:30). Taking the fat of the sacrifice and burning it upon the altar, it was declared a “peace offering…and atonement” for the sinner, whose sin was forgiven (4:31).

Closing thoughts: Why do we no longer offer sacrifices for sins?

Because Jesus Christ is not only our high priest (Hebrews 9:11), but He is our “once and for all” substitutionary sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12, 14). His death on the cross, and His blood, fulfilled the law’s demands for a perfect, sinless sacrifice.

Nevertheless, we are responsible for confessing our sins to God (1 John 1:9) and one another when we have sinned against them (Matthew 5:23-24). We no longer offer “a burnt sacrifice of the herd” (bulls, goats, or sheep) for our sins (Leviticus 1:2-4), for Christ fulfilled the demands of the law. He was the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29), a “male without blemish” (1:3), and was sacrificed for our sins “once for all” (Hebrews 10:10).

Hebrews 9:28 – “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”

Is He your Savior, your sacrifice for sin?

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Old Testament Sacrifices and What They Teach Us About God’s Character (Leviticus 2; Leviticus 3)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 2-3

Having introduced the Book of Leviticus in an earlier post, we focus on today’s Scripture reading, Leviticus 2-3. The first sacrificial offering described in Leviticus was the “burnt offering” (1:1-17). It consisted of an animal that was sacrificed for sin, “a male without blemish,” and either a bull (1:5), sheep or goat (1:10), or a turtledove or young pigeon (1:14).

Leviticus 2 – The Law of the “Meat Offering”

The “Meat” (Grain) Offering (2:1-3)

Leviticus 2 introduced the second sacrifice, the “meat offering,” but a better translation would be “meal” or grain offering. “The “meat offering” was a “gift,” a non-blood sacrifice that consisted of raw grain (“fine flour”), oil, and frankincense (2:1). Also known as an oblation, it was a voluntary offering of which the priests would take a portion for their families, and the rest was offered as a burnt offering (2:2-3). The “meat” or, one might say, “vegetable,” non-meat offering was accepted by the LORD as “a thing most holy” (2:3), though a portion supported the priests and their families.

Three Methods of Preparing “Meat (Grain) Offerings” (2:4-11)

The meat (or grain) offering was bread either baked in an oven (2:4), cooked in a pan (2:5-6), or made in a frying pan (2:7). As already stated, a portion was to be used by the priests for their households (2:8-10).

The meat or meal offerings were never offered with leaven (a symbol of sin in the Scriptures) or honey, perhaps because flour baked with honey would spoil and sour (2:11).

Salt and An Oblation (free-will) Offering of Firstfruits (2:12-16)

There was also an “oblation of the firstfruits,” which was a voluntary offering of faith and would “not be burnt on the altar” (2:12).

Notice that salt was to accompany all offerings (2:13). Salt was a valuable commodity for seasoning and preserving food. Therefore, it was to be a part of all offerings. (To understand the value of salt, remember the adage that expresses someone’s value as “worth their weight in salt.” No wonder the LORD referred to believers as the “salt of the earth” Matthew 5:13).

As a sacrifice to the LORD, the firstfruits of the harvest were the first “green ears of corn” or grain and served as a testimony of one’s faith in God’s continued provision (2:12-16).

Leviticus 3 – The Law of the “Peace Offering”

The third offering was a “sacrifice of peace offering” and was a blood offering. (3:1-16)

Unlike the “burnt offerings,” which required a “male without blemish” (1:3), the “peace offerings” could be male or female (3:1). The standard, however, was “without blemish before the LORD.” The priests would inspect the offerings to ensure they were acceptable sacrifices (3:1, 12).

A man would bring his “peace offering” to the door of the Tabernacle, and laying “his hand upon the head of his offering,” he would “kill it.” The priests would then “sprinkle the blood upon the altar” (3:2). There was the offering of the herd, either a bull or heifer, or the offering of the flock, a lamb (3:6-7), or a goat (3:12). As with the “burnt offering,” the worshipper would “lay his hand upon the head of his offering, and kill it at the door of the tabernacle” (3:2, 8, 13). The priests then sprinkled the blood of the sacrifice on the altar and burned it on the altar (3:5, 11, 16).

Closing thoughts: “Without blemish” was the LORD’s standard for sacrifices (3:1, 6).

Offerings brought to the LORD were to be of the highest quality. I am sure some were tempted to bring less than their best (even as we might be tempted to do the same). I believe the apostle Paul had the “without blemish” standard in mind when he wrote:

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. ² And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:1-2).

The LORD required the best in sacrifices and requires no less of us. Our lives are to be “holy,” meaning sanctified, set apart, and dedicated to God. Only that which is holy is “acceptable,” pleasing and conforming to His will.

Anything less than your best is unacceptable!

Questions to Consider:

1) How were the priests and their families supported? (Leviticus 2:1-3, 10)

2) What seasoning was always to accompany offerings? (Leviticus 2:13)

3) What was the standard for “burnt offerings” sacrificed for sin? (Leviticus 1:3) How was the “peace offering” different? (Leviticus 3:1)

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Leviticus: An Introduction to the Third Book of Moses (Leviticus 1)

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Scripture reading – Leviticus 1

Our chronological Scripture reading schedule brings us to the Book of Leviticus, the third book of the five books of the Old Testament known as the Pentateuch. As its name implies, Leviticus is a book directing the Levites in their priestly duties, addressing worship, offering sacrifices, festivals, and matters of the Law.

The following will serve as a brief outline of the Book of Leviticus.

Leviticus 1-7 presented the guidelines that were followed in sacrificial offerings. Then the consecration and ministry of the Aaronic priesthood were the subjects of Leviticus 8-10. Next, a distinction between animals deemed clean and unclean was defined in Leviticus 11-15. Finally, Leviticus 17-25 reminded the people that God is holy and expects the same of His people when they worship and offer sacrifices. (Remember, the offerings specified in Leviticus were a prefigure of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. He was the perfect, complete, “once, and for all” sacrifice for our sins, Hebrews 10:10).

The LORD Ordered the Starts and Stops of Israel. (Exodus 40)

The LORD’s glory, whose presence was signified in a cloud that descended and “covered the tent of the congregation,” had “filled the Tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34). The cloud was a visible testament of the LORD’s presence in Israel. In the day, the cloud rested upon the Tabernacle. At night, God’s presence was seen as “fire…in the sight of all the house of Israel” (Exodus 40:38). The LORD, not man, dictated the starts and stops of His people, for “when the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the children of Israel went onward in all their journeys: ³⁷But if the cloud were not taken up, then they journeyed not till the day that it was taken up” (Exodus 40:36-37).

Leviticus 1 – The Laws and Ordinances for Burnt Offerings

The LORD, having filled the Tabernacle with His glory (Exodus 40:34), “called unto Moses, and spake unto him out of the tabernacle of the congregation, saying, ²Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man of you bring an offering unto the Lord, ye shall bring your offering of the cattle, even of the herd, and of the flock” (Leviticus 1:1-2).

Guidelines Concerning Burnt Offerings (1:1-17)

The first offering required in Leviticus was the “burnt offering.” It was to be “a male without blemish” (1:3). The LORD required a bull (1:5), sheep or goat (1:10), or an “offering of turtledoves, or of young pigeons” to be sacrificed (1:14). These, the children of Israel were to bring to the courtyard of the Tabernacle. There, a worshipper would place his “hand upon the head” of the sacrifice, thus identifying that animal’s death as the substitutionary sacrifice for his sin (1:4-5, 10, 14-15).

The sacrifice was then killed and processed as described by the law. The priest would then take the blood of the sacrifice and sprinkle it on the altar (1:5, 11). Then, flaying and cutting the animal, the priest laid the pieces of the sacrifice on the fire of the altar (1:12-13).

Closing thoughts:

Some 21st-century believers dismiss the book of Leviticus, supposing it has no application to their lives. I urge you, don’t make that mistake. Much of the carnality seen in our churches and homes will be eradicated if believers examine their lives in light of the precepts and principles derived from the Old Testament’s Commandments, Laws, and Ordinances. Obeying the LORD comes with a promise of His blessing:

Leviticus 26:3-4, 12 – “³If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them; ⁴Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit…¹²And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.”

Questions to Consider:

From where did the LORD call unto Moses? (Leviticus 1:1)

What were the requirements for a burnt offering? (Leviticus 1:3, 10)

How did the worshipper identify with the death of his sacrifice as an offering and atonement for his sins? (Leviticus 1:4)

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What Does the LORD Require? Holiness and Consecration to Him! (Exodus 39; Exodus 40)

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Scripture reading – Exodus 39-40

We conclude our study of the Book of Exodus with today’s Scripture reading (Exodus 39-40). I applaud your discipline if you have followed this “Heart of A Shepherd” from the first of this year, and I trust my daily devotional commentaries have proved to be edifying. Together, we have completed a study of three books of the Bible: Genesis, Job, and Exodus! With the LORD’s blessing, we will fulfill Paul’s challenge to Timothy when he exhorted that young pastor: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Review

Several recent chapters (Exodus 25-40) were devoted to preparing Israel to bind to God’s Covenant and worship the LORD. God gave Moses directions and detailed descriptions of what He required for His sanctuary. They included the construction of His Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant and Mercy Seat, the Lampstand, the Altar of Incense, the Table for the bread, and various implements needed within and without the Tabernacle. The LORD also provided Moses with specific details about the Courtyard, its Brazen Altar, and the fount that served the priests as a washing station for their hands and feet.

Exodus 39

The “Holy Garments” of the High Priest

An earlier chapter (Exodus 28) recorded the design of the “holy garments” to be worn by Aaron, the brother of Moses, whom God chose as His high priest. Finally, exodus 39 recorded the fabrication of the high priests’ garments: “And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the Lord commanded Moses” (39:1).

The stunning colors of the high priest’s “holy garments” were given (39:1-2), as well as the breastplate embedded with twelve precious stones, each engraved with the names of one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel covering his chest (39:8-14). Also, a description of the bindings of the breastplate was given, as well as other articles of clothing worn by the high priest (39:15-31). Finally, fastened to his turban was a plate of gold engraved with the words, “Holiness to the LORD” (39:30-31).

The Completion of the Tabernacle (39:32-43)

A blessed testimony for God’s people and their attention to honoring Him was summed up in Exodus 39:32, where we read, “Thus was all the work of the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation finished: and the children of Israel did according to all that the Lord commanded Moses, so did they” (39:32). So the people presented all to Moses for his inspection, including the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the golden implements the LORD required (39:32-42). Moses then looked “upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the Lord had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them” (39:43).

Exodus 40 – “The End” was Only the Beginning!

Setting Up the Tabernacle (40:1-8)

With all completed as the LORD required, He commanded Moses, saying: “On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation” (40:1). Moses was tasked with the responsibility of overseeing the assembly of the Tabernacle, its implements, dedicating the high priest, his sons, and the garments they were to wear in the priests’ office (40:2-8).

Consecrating All to the LORD (40:9-11)

Moses was commanded to “take the anointing oil” and dedicate as holy the Tabernacle and its vessels (40:9-11). Then, in a public ceremony of dedication, Moses was commanded to have Aaron and his sons come to “the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water” (40:12). Then, he was to “put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto [the LORD] in the priest’s office” (40:13). Aaron’s sons were also to be anointed, and clothed in the robes of the “priest’s office” (40:15). Moses did all as commanded (40:16-43). Then he dedicated the work to the LORD (40:33).

An Outward Manifestation of the LORD’s Approval (40:34-38)

“Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (40:34). The outward manifestation of God’s approval was such that Moses could not enter the tabernacle “because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (40:35). Indeed, it was the abiding presence of the cloud that directed the steps and direction for Israel in the wilderness (40:36-37).

A sign of the LORD’s perpetual presence with His people was summed up in this: “For the cloud of the Lord was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys” (40:38).

Closing thoughts –

We have learned that the LORD is interested in the place of worship and the preparation and dedication of those who serve Him as His ministers. Therefore, Moses, Aaron, and his sons were commanded to ceremonially wash their hands and feet “when they came near unto the altar,” for they served as the intercessors for the people (40:30-32).

Thirteen times in Exodus 39 and Exodus 40, we read the phrase, “as the LORD commanded Moses.” That phrase reminds me that half-hearted preparation for worshipping the LORD is unacceptable. Our God is holy, and those who serve Him should reflect His character in their lives, service, and worship.

An Exhortation to Dedication

Are you aware that the LORD requires every believer to be dedicated to Him? As He commanded Moses to dedicate and consecrate Aaron and his sons to serve Him, He requires the same of every believer.

In his letter to believers in Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? ²⁰ For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Take a few minutes, pray, and dedicate yourself to the LORD!

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The LORD Accounts for the Gifts, the Givers, and the Builders. (Exodus 37; Exodus 38)

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Scripture reading – Exodus 37-38

To Israel, the visible presence of the Tabernacle was a constant reminder of God’s presence amid His people. The LORD named not only the principal builder, Bezaleel (37:1), but because it was His sanctuary, He also gave precise details for its design and furnishings. There was no room for ambiguity in the LORD’s house.

Exodus 37 – The Design of the Tabernacle and its Furnishings

The Ark, Mercy-Seat, and Cherubim (Exodus 37:1-9)

The materials, construction, and dimensions of the Ark of the Covenant were chronicled (37:1-4), and served as the figure of God’s heavenly throne in the midst of His people (Psalm 80:1; 99:1). The Ark was designed to be portable and was transported using staves (wooden rods overlaid with gold), and carried by priests during Israel’s sojourn in the wilderness (37:3-5; 30:1-6). Gold overlaid the Ark, including the “mercy seat,” upon which two cherubim faced one another with outstretched wings (37:7-9). (The gold served as a reminder of the purity and holiness of God’s throne of judgment.)

The Table, Altar, and Utensils (Exodus 37:10-28)

There were other furnishings crafted and employed in the tabernacle. These were itemized (37:10-28) and described in detail. Included in the inventory were a table, dishes, bowls, spoons, an elaborate candlestick, and an “altar of incense” (37:25-29), all overlaid with gold.

The Holy Oil and Incense (Exodus 37:29)

For ceremonial dedication, a “holy anointing oil” (37:29a) was made and used to anoint the tabernacle and its furnishings and sanctify the priests when they served the LORD before the people (30:23-38). Also, incense was made to be used only in the Tabernacle (37:29b).

Exodus 38 – The Preparation for the Tabernacle Courtyard

The Brazen Altar and Laver of Brass (Exodus 38:1-8)

Though not named, the personal pronoun “he” was a reference to Bezaleel, the builder whom the LORD chose (Exodus 31:1-5, 35:30-33; 37:1; 38:1). Bezaleel “made the altar of burnt offering” (38:1) according to the LORD’s design (37:1-8).

He also made a “laver of brass” (38:8), a large bowl or fount used by priests for washing their hands and feet (30:17-21). (Notice the women gave their “looking-glasses for the metal used in the washing laver. These were mirrors, but consisted of polished metal rather than the glass mirrors of modern times with a silver-coated back.)

Bezaleel also oversaw the manufacture of curtains, which, when assembled, formed the exterior courtyard around the Tabernacle and brass altar (38:9-20).

Summary of Offerings and Precious Metals (Exodus 38:21-31)

Exodus 38:21-31 is a reminder that nothing was left to chance, for we have a record and accounting of the gold, silver, and brass used in preparing the sanctuary and its furnishings (38:21-31). Though it might appear insignificant, the account reminds me that God notes our tithes and offerings. We are also reminded of the principal men God chose and who were willing to use their talents and skills for the LORD; “Bezaleel the son of Uri,” a carpenter (38:22), and Aholiab, son of Ahisamach” an “engraver…and an embroiderer” (38:23).

Finally, the tally of the gold, silver, and brass revealed the people’s enormous sacrifice, as they gave for the construction and furnishings of the Tabernacle, the Sanctuary of the LORD on earth.

Questions to consider:

1) Who were the principal craftsmen, and why did the LORD choose them? (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:30-35; 38:22-23)

2) Why do you think God did not choose Moses to build the Tabernacle and its vessels?

3) Minute details were recorded for the materials, design, and construction of the Ark of the Covenant, the curtains of the Tabernacle, the altar, and the courtyard. What insights does this give us regarding the character of God and our need to prepare ourselves for worshipping Him?

The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Heart of A Shepherd Inc as a 501c3 public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
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You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.