Leviticus 8: A Chosen Priesthood
"YOU HAVE BEEN selected for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Paradise!" Maybe we'd feel more specially chosen if the sales letter weren't a computer-generated form letter. We would like to be singled out personally for a gift or an honor. The Lord is building all believers into a "holy priesthood" (1Pe 2:5). Our priesthood is foreshadowed in the original ordination ceremony of the priests of the Lord.
Warming Up to God
Recall a time you felt called by the Lord for a particular task or role. Thank him for how he helped you fulfill it and for what the experience showed you about yourself and about God.
Read Leviticus 8. »
Discovering the Word
- How were Aaron and his sons singled out in front of the assembly of all the Israelites (vv. 1-13)?
- Recalling the atonement sacrifice (Lev 1:4), what is the significance of Aaron and his sons' laying their hands on the heads of the offerings (vv. 14, 18, 22)?
- How was the blood of the ordination lamb used to anoint Aaron and his sons (vv. 23-24)?
- What message would this ceremony carry to the watching Israelites?
- How would Aaron and his sons feel honored by this ceremony of ordination as God's priests?
- How might they feel inadequate for the job?
Applying the Word
- How do you feel honored for the role in which God has placed you?
- In what ways do you feel inadequate?
Responding in Prayer
Thank the Lord for the privileges and responsibilities of your priesthood. Bring your sins, fears and inadequacies to him for his cleansing and renewing.
For Further Study
An Incomplete Guide to the Rest of Your Life by Stan D. Gaede