Leviticus 8:32

Then you must burn up the remainder of the meat and bread.

Study Bible

Then you must burn up
The phrase "Then you must burn up" indicates a command from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience in the sacrificial system. The Hebrew root for "burn" is "שָׂרַף" (saraph), which means to consume by fire. This act of burning symbolizes purification and the complete offering of the sacrifice to God. In the context of the consecration of Aaron and his sons, it underscores the necessity of dedicating everything to God, leaving nothing for personal use, which reflects the holiness and total devotion required in the priestly service.

the remainder of the meat and bread
The "remainder" refers to what is left after the portions designated for the priests and the altar have been taken. The Hebrew word for "remainder" is "יֶתֶר" (yeter), which implies what is left over or excess. In the sacrificial system, the meat and bread were part of the peace offerings, which were shared between God, the priests, and the offerer. However, in this specific consecration ceremony, the remainder was not to be consumed by the priests or the offerer but was to be entirely burnt. This act signifies the completeness of the offering and the exclusivity of the consecration ceremony, setting it apart from regular peace offerings. Historically, this practice ensured that the sacredness of the consecration was maintained, preventing any profane use of what was dedicated to God. It also serves as a reminder of the total surrender and dedication required in serving God, a principle that resonates throughout the Scriptures and is echoed in the New Testament call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
- The leader of the Israelites who is conducting the ordination ceremony for Aaron and his sons as priests.

2. Aaron and His Sons
- The first priests of Israel, being consecrated for their service in the tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
- The sacred place where God dwells among His people and where the priests perform their duties.

4. Ordination Ceremony
- A significant event where Aaron and his sons are set apart for priestly service, involving sacrifices and offerings.

5. Sacrificial Offerings
- The meat and bread mentioned are part of the offerings made during the ordination, symbolizing dedication and consecration to God.

Teaching Points

Complete Dedication to God
The burning of the remainder of the meat and bread signifies total dedication to God. In our lives, we are called to offer everything to God, holding nothing back.

Obedience to God's Commands
The specific instructions for the ordination ceremony highlight the importance of obedience. We must strive to follow God's Word precisely in our daily lives.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
Sacrifices were central to the worship of God in the Old Testament. Today, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, service, and our lives, as acts of worship.

Priestly Identity of Believers
Just as Aaron and his sons were set apart for service, believers are called to live as a royal priesthood, serving God and others with holiness and dedication.

Symbolism of Fire in Purification
The burning of the offerings symbolizes purification and the removal of sin. We are reminded of the refining work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, purifying us for God's service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the burning of the remainder of the meat and bread in Leviticus 8:32 reflect the concept of total dedication to God, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests foreshadow the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

3. How can the emphasis on obedience in the ordination ceremony inform our understanding of following God's commands today?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer ourselves as living sacrifices, as encouraged in Romans 12:1, in our current context?

5. How does the symbolism of fire in the purification process relate to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and how can we be more open to this refining process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the instructions for the ordination ceremony, which Leviticus 8 describes in action. It highlights the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels between the Old Testament priesthood and the eternal priesthood of Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the consecration of Aaron and his sons to the spiritual consecration of all believers.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system and the complete dedication required of the priests.

Malachi 1:6-14
Warns against offering blemished sacrifices, emphasizing the need for purity and wholehearted devotion in worship.