Leviticus 7:28

Then the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses,
This phrase indicates direct divine communication, a common occurrence in the Pentateuch, where God speaks to Moses as the mediator of His covenant with Israel. This underscores Moses' unique role as a prophet and leader, chosen to convey God's laws and instructions to the Israelites. The phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the instructions that follow, reinforcing the idea that the laws are not human inventions but commands from God Himself. This direct communication is foundational for understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel, as seen throughout the Torah. It also prefigures the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the one who perfectly reveals God's will to humanity (Hebrews 1:1-2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is giving instructions to Moses regarding the offerings and sacrifices.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who serves as the mediator between God and the people, receiving and conveying God's laws and instructions.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are receiving the laws and instructions for worship and community living.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey in the wilderness, and where the sacrificial system was centered.

5. Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices instituted by God for the Israelites, which includes various types of offerings such as burnt offerings, peace offerings, and sin offerings.

Teaching Points

Divine Instruction
God communicates His will and instructions clearly to His people through chosen leaders. We should seek to understand and follow God's guidance in our lives.

Role of Mediators
Moses serves as a mediator between God and the Israelites, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator, Jesus Christ. We can approach God confidently through Christ, our mediator.

Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for offerings highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. Our worship and service should be conducted according to God's standards, not our own preferences.

Holiness in Worship
The sacrificial system underscores the holiness required in approaching God. We are called to live holy lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Community and Worship
The instructions for offerings were given to the community of Israel, emphasizing the communal aspect of worship. Our faith is lived out in community, and we should encourage and support one another in our spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Moses as a mediator in Leviticus 7:28 point to the role of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God align with His instructions and standards today?

3. How does the concept of holiness in the sacrificial system apply to our daily lives as Christians?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and encourage one another in our faith communities, similar to the communal worship of the Israelites?

5. How does understanding the sacrificial system in Leviticus enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides details on the consecration of the priests and the offerings associated with their ordination, which connects to the instructions given in Leviticus regarding offerings.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system through Jesus Christ, highlighting the temporary nature of the Old Testament sacrifices and their ultimate fulfillment in Christ's sacrifice.

1 Samuel 15
This passage emphasizes obedience over sacrifice, reminding us that the heart behind the offering is crucial, which is a theme that resonates with the instructions in Leviticus.