InstaStudy

Exploring Leviticus: Holiness and Atonement

A study of Leviticus, focusing on the offerings, priesthood, purity laws, and the Day of Atonement, revealing God's holiness and the need for atonement through sacrifice.

1. The Offerings: Approaching God

1.1 The Burnt Offering (Leviticus 1)

Verses: Leviticus 1:3-4; Hebrews 10:1-10
  • The burnt offering was a freewill offering symbolizing complete consecration to God.
  • It involved the sacrifice of an animal, wholly consumed on the altar, representing Christ's sacrifice for our sins.

1.2 The Grain Offering (Leviticus 2)

Verses: Leviticus 2:1-2; Romans 12:1
  • The grain offering was a bloodless offering expressing gratitude and devotion to God.
  • It consisted of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing the believer's dedication and service.

1.3 The Peace Offering (Leviticus 3)

Verses: Leviticus 3:1; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
  • The peace offering was a fellowship offering expressing peace and communion with God and others.
  • It involved a shared meal, symbolizing the unity and fellowship of believers in Christ.

2. Atonement for Sin

2.1 Sin Offering (Leviticus 4)

Verses: Leviticus 4:2; Hebrews 9:11-14
  • Sin offerings atoned for unintentional sins, highlighting the need for continual cleansing.
  • The blood of the sacrifice was applied to the altar, symbolizing the removal of sin's defilement.

2.2 Trespass Offering (Leviticus 5-6)

Verses: Leviticus 6:6-7; Luke 19:8-9
  • Trespass offerings atoned for sins involving restitution, emphasizing the importance of making amends.
  • It involved both sacrifice and repayment, demonstrating the need for both forgiveness and restoration.

3. The Priesthood

3.1 The Priests and Their Duties (Leviticus 8)

Verses: Leviticus 8:12; 1 Peter 2:9
  • The priests were consecrated to serve God in the tabernacle, representing those called to ministry.
  • Their duties included offering sacrifices, maintaining the altar fire, and teaching the law.

3.2 The Consecration of the Priesthood (Leviticus 8)

Verses: Leviticus 8:30; Acts 1:8
  • The ordination of Aaron and his sons symbolized the setting apart of individuals for sacred service.
  • The anointing with oil represented the empowering of the Holy Spirit for ministry.

4. Purity and Cleansing

4.1 Clean and Unclean Animals (Leviticus 11)

Verses: Leviticus 11:44-45; 2 Corinthians 6:17
  • Clean and unclean animals symbolized moral purity and impurity, teaching the importance of holiness.
  • The dietary laws served as a reminder of God's covenant and the need for separation from the world.

4.2 Laws Concerning Bodily Impurities (Leviticus 12, 15)

Verses: Leviticus 15:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:7
  • Laws concerning childbirth and bodily discharges emphasized the need for purification and cleansing.
  • These regulations highlighted the importance of maintaining physical and spiritual purity.

5. The Day of Atonement

5.1 The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16)

Verses: Leviticus 16:30; Hebrews 9:7
  • The Day of Atonement was an annual day of national repentance and atonement for sins.
  • The high priest entered the Most Holy Place to sprinkle blood on the mercy seat, symbolizing God's forgiveness.

5.2 The Scapegoat (Leviticus 16)

Verses: Leviticus 16:21-22; Isaiah 53:6
  • The scapegoat symbolized the removal of sin from the community, representing Christ's bearing of our sins.
  • The goat was sent into the wilderness, signifying the complete removal of guilt and condemnation.