WHY READ LEVITICUS?

While the Israelites were encamped at Mt Sinai, the Lord gave Moses instructions regarding the sacrifices - known as ‘Levitical sacrifices’. These are contained in chapters 1-7 and go into great detail. The priests knew exactly what they were to do with each sacrifice. Hence we have seven chapters in the Bible which tell us how to kill, dissect and dispose of an animal sacrifice.

Yet we know that God ceased wanting these as soon as Jesus died. The Levitical sacrifices needed to be made continually whereas Jesus made a once-for-all sacrifice of Himself. No further sacrifice is needed.

So why do we need Leviticus chapters 1-7?

Everything in scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit and profitable. (2 Tim 3:16). Yet the message in these chapters is no longer about how to make an animal sacrifice. Rather we read them to see how they point to Jesus.

Each of the four animal sacrifices points to Jesus. He is the Burnt Offering who has consecrated us to God (caused us and our works to be accepted). He is the Peace Offering who has made peace between God and His people. He is the Sin Offering who atones for the sin within us - listed in Galatians 5: 19-21. He is the Trespass Offering for the sins which we commit.

● Every animal sacrifice had to be without blemish because it pointed to the sinless Christ.

● Everything was to be done according to God’s instructions. The need to obey God continues. Jesus equated obedience with love for Him. (John 14:15).

● The Thank Offering had to be eaten within one day because there are always new reasons to give thanks to the Lord whose loving-kindness is new every day. (Lamentations 3:23

I’ve run out of space but there is much more ….