UNDERSTANDING LEVITICUS | OVERVIEW

0. Introduction

a) The Bible Book Introductions are divided into 4 parts (Overview, Vital Statistics, Blueprint, Mega-themes) for easy-to-understand.

1. Overview

a) The overwhelming message of Leviticus is the holiness of God - "You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy" (19:2). But how can unholy people approach a holy God? The answer - first sin must be dealt with. Thus the opening chapters of Leviticus give detailed instructions for offering sacrifices, which were the active symbols of repentance and obedience. Whether bulls, grain, goats, or sheep, the sacrificial offerings had to be perfect, with no defects or bruises - pictures of the ultimate sacrifice to come, Jesus, the Lamb of God. Jesus has come and opened the way to God, by giving up his life as the final sacrifice in our place. True worship and oneness with God begin as we confess our sin and accept Christ as the only one who can redeem us from sin and help us approach God.

b) In Leviticus, sacrifices, priests, and the sacred Day of Atonement opened the way for the Israelites to come to God. God's people were also to worship him with our lives. Thus we read of purity laws (11-15) and rules for daily living concerning family responsibilities, sexual conduct, relationships, worldliness (18-20), and vows (27). These instructions involve one's holy walk with God, and the patterns of spiritual living still apply today. Worship, therefore, has a horizontal aspect - that is, God is honored by our lives as we relate to others.

c) The final emphasis in Leviticus is celebration. The book gives instructions for feasts. There were special, regular, and corporate occasions for remembering what God had done, giving thanks to him, and redirecting lives to his service (23). Our Christian traditions and holidays are different, but they are necessary ingredients of worship. We too need special days of worship and celebration with our brothers and sisters to remember God's goodness in our lives.

d) As you read Leviticus, rededicate yourself to holiness, worshiping God in private confession, public service, and group celebration.