Leviticus in many ways is an instruction book for the priests in how to maintain right relationship between God and God’s. There are instructions about how they should administer their priesthood and how they should be ordained. Jesus is not just a great teacher but, as the writer of Hebrews instructs, “has become a high priest forever” (Hebrews 6:20). Even now, Paul tells us, Jesus “is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Romans 8:34).
(Leviticus 8-10; 18-20; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 2:17; 3:1; 4:14-15; 5:1-5, 10; 6:20; 7:26-27; 8:1, 3; 9:7, 11, 25; 10:1-18)
Sermon Outline
“I will consecrate Aaron and his sons to serve me as priests. Then I will dwell among the Israelites and be their God.” (Exodus 29:44b-45)
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.” (Hebrews 4:14)
What is a High Priest?
- The ordination of the high priest (Leviticus 8-10, 21-22)
- The ordination by Moses
- The set apart clothing
- The set apart calling
- The calling of the high priest (Exodus 29:44-46)
- Standing before God on behalf of humans
- Standing before humans on behalf of God
- The functions of the high priest:
- Overseeing the worship of God’s people: lead worshiper and worship maintainer
- Distinguishing for the people: between holy and common, clean and unclean
- Speaking for God: teaching God’s ways and offering blessing in God’s name
Jesus the Perfect High Priest
- The tabernacle and the ways and means of Leviticus are echoes of a deeper, heavenly reality (Hebrews 8:5)
- The repetitive sacrifices are fulfilled by the once-for-all-time sacrificial offering of Jesus (Hebrews 7:27)
- The new high priest found in Jesus (Hebrews 4:14-16)
Living with Jesus the High Priest
- Step by faith into life with God through Jesus
- Savor the gift of life with God through Jesus
- Share with others the gift of life with God through Jesus
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- When has someone advocated or interceded for you in a difficult situation? What happened? What did they do or not do?
- This week we continue our Lenten sermon series entitled, “Holy God, Wholly Given: Lent in Leviticus.” This six-week series explores key themes of Leviticus seen through the life and work of Jesus the Messiah. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through this study.
- Background: Building upon what comes before in Exodus, Leviticus picks up key themes of how we relate to God. One of those major themes is the establishment of a priesthood who mediates between God and God’s people. The high priest, in a sense, represented the people to God and God to the people.
- The guidelines about the priests for Israel first arises in Exodus. Read Exodus 29:44-46. How would you describe the role of the priests for God’s people based on what you read here?
- The ordination (setting apart) and guidelines for the priests is outlined in Leviticus, chapters 8-10 and 21-22. It is a lot to read, but let’s at least read Leviticus 9:7-24. What stands out to you about the role and calling of the priest seen here in Aaron’s role as the chief priest?
- The New Testament book of Hebrews picks up key themes about the priesthood and how Jesus fulfills that calling and role. Read Hebrews 4:14-5:10. What stands out to you about Jesus’ ministry as the true and final high priest?
- What is one thing God speaking to you personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
Dig Deeper:
- Continue with Eastbrook’s daily devotional during Lent: eastbrook.org/LeviticusDevo
- Consider reading the guidelines about establishing the priests in Exodus 28-29; Leviticus 8-10, 21-22; and Numbers 1:47-54; 3:1-20, 44-51; 8:5-26. Although much here can seem odd to us, what do you think this communicates about who God is and what is required for us to live with a holy and awesome God?
- Take some time to prayerfully read and reflect on Hebrews 4:14-5:10. Whether by journalling, drawing, praying, or talking to a friend, consider what it means that Jesus is our great High Priest.
- Explore some or all of the Bible Project Royal Priesthood video series