Year of the Bible: Part Three of Twelve Sample

Establishing the Priesthood.

As we step into the book of Leviticus, it's important to note that it is here that God outlines some very curious guidelines for His people. These laws should not be directly applied to you or me in today's culture because they were for a specific purpose to a people in a very different time and culture.

When you set this book in its time and place, the guidelines make more sense. God used His law to call out the Hebrew people for Himself, distinguish them from all the other nations, and be a witness to those nations of the character and nature of God.

This introduction leads us to a unique group of people inside the people of God, the Levites, and priests. They serve God in His dwelling on behalf of the people.

Aaron made the Golden Calf for the people in the wilderness, and despite that, God still established him and his tribe as priests for the people. Aaron offered sacrifices to the Lord first for his sins, and then as the High Priest he offered sacrifices on behalf of the people. Tony Evans's commentary tells us that this act was a request for forgiveness and a declaration that the people were dedicated [set apart] to God. The sacrifices made it possible for God to dwell among the people without contaminating His holiness or having to judge the people for their sins.

After this, Moses and Aaron went into the tent of meeting, and Aaron came out alive. The fact that he came out alive was proof to the people that God had accepted him as their High Priest. Aaron raised his hands to bless the people, and God revealed His glory by consuming the offerings. Whoa! What an incredible sight that must have been!

Tony Evans notes in his commentary that the writer of Hebrews said the holy presence was so fabulous and terrifying that he trembled in fear at seeing it! Dr. Evans says, "Incredibly, today we can come into God's presence with assurance and joy, and even share in his holiness, through the atoning death and resurrection of Christ." The people of Israel did not have that access.

Question: Our reality is very different than that of the Israelites. We don't have to fear whether God will accept us. We have direct access to God through Jesus offering Himself on the cross. Have you ever thoughtfully considered the privileged position you have in Christ?

Prayer Focus: Ask God to give you a more profound revelation of how Jesus' sacrifice makes you free. Ask Him to provide you with a healthy fear of the Lord that respects all He has given you as His child.