Encountering the Old Testament, 3rd Edition
A Christian Survey
series: Encountering Biblical Studies
Chapter
7. Leviticus: Instructions for Holy Living
Chapter Intro Video
Chapter Objectives
- Compare the uses of sacrifice in Israel with uses of sacrifice in Mesopotamian cultures
- Compare the emphasis on worship in Leviticus with that in Exodus
- Outline the basic content of the book of Leviticus
- List the types of Old Testament sacrifices and explain their usage
- Identify the three basic themes of the book of Leviticus
- Describe how modern Christians relate to Old Testament law
Chapter Summary
- Sacrifice was common throughout the ancient Near East, but Israel used it in a unique manner.
- The Levites were descendants of Levi, and they served as priests.
- The contents of Leviticus are: the offerings, the priesthood, cleanliness, uncleanliness, and the Holiness Code.
- The basic types of sacrifices are: burnt offering, cereal offering, peace offering, sin offering, and guilt offering.
- On the Day of Atonement, the priest made a sacrifice to make atonement for himself and the nation.
- The scapegoat symbolized the removal of the sin of the nation.
- Leviticus established laws for proper covenant worship and for ritual cleansing.
- Through the use of blood, God made clear that nothing less than life itself must be presented to him as an atonement for sin.
- In Leviticus God called Israel to live a holy life, and he calls us to do the same.
Study Questions
- Why is Leviticus one of the most neglected books of the Bible?
- What are the major differences between the Israelite sacrificial system and those of the ancient Near East?
- Who were the Levites? Why is the book named for them?
- What are the four main divisions of the book?
- Distinguish the two main categories of sacrifices.
- What was the function and ritual of the Day of Atonement?
- What are the three major themes of Leviticus?
- What is the basis of God’s call for Israel to live a holy life?