Leviticus 17:9

but does not bring it to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting to sacrifice it to the LORD, that man must be cut off from his people.

Study Bible

but does not bring it
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience and the specific action required by the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "bring" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which means to come or to go. In this context, it signifies the act of approaching God in the prescribed manner. The act of bringing the sacrifice to the designated place underscores the necessity of following God's commands precisely, reflecting a heart of submission and reverence.

to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" was the sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites. The Hebrew term "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed) signifies a place of divine appointment. This location was central to Israelite worship and symbolized God's presence among His people. Bringing the sacrifice to the entrance highlights the importance of approaching God in the way He has ordained, acknowledging His holiness and the need for mediation.

to sacrifice it to the LORD
The act of sacrifice was a central element of worship in ancient Israel. The Hebrew word for "sacrifice" is "זָבַח" (zabach), which involves offering something valuable to God. Sacrificing "to the LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) indicates that the act is not merely ritualistic but a profound expression of devotion and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. It reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where sacrifices were a means of atonement and fellowship.

that man must be cut off from his people
The phrase "cut off" comes from the Hebrew "כָּרַת" (karath), meaning to sever or to eliminate. This severe consequence underscores the gravity of disobedience and the importance of communal purity and holiness. Being "cut off" from the people was both a physical and spiritual separation, indicating the seriousness of failing to honor God's commands. It serves as a sobering reminder of the need for faithfulness and the consequences of disregarding God's established order.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who established the laws and commandments for His people.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given specific instructions on worship and sacrifices.

4. The Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle)
The designated place for worship and sacrifices, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. Sacrifices
Offerings made to God as acts of worship, atonement, and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

Centralization of Worship
God established a specific place for sacrifices to ensure unity and purity in worship. This teaches us the importance of gathering together as a community of believers to worship God in spirit and truth.

Obedience to God's Commands
The requirement to bring sacrifices to the Tent of Meeting underscores the importance of obedience in our relationship with God. We are called to follow His commands and approach Him on His terms, not ours.

The Seriousness of Worship
The consequence of being "cut off" for not following God's instructions highlights the seriousness of worship. We must approach God with reverence and respect, understanding the gravity of our actions.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice. Our worship now centers on Christ's finished work on the cross, and we are called to live lives of gratitude and holiness in response.

Community Accountability
The communal aspect of worship in the Old Testament reminds us of our responsibility to hold each other accountable in our faith journey, encouraging one another to remain faithful to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement to bring sacrifices to the Tent of Meeting reflect God's desire for order and unity in worship?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship today remains centered on Christ and aligned with biblical teachings?

3. What are some modern-day practices that might parallel the improper offering of sacrifices outside the designated place, and how can we avoid them?

4. How does understanding the seriousness of worship in Leviticus 17:9 impact our approach to communal worship and personal devotion?

5. How can we, as a church community, encourage and support one another in maintaining obedience to God's commands in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters provide detailed instructions on various types of sacrifices, emphasizing the importance of proper worship.

Deuteronomy 12
This passage reiterates the command to bring sacrifices to the designated place of worship, highlighting the centralization of worship.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the sacrificial system of the Old Testament.

1 Corinthians 10
Paul warns against idolatry and emphasizes the importance of participating in the Lord's Supper with the right heart, drawing a parallel to the proper approach to worship.