Unveiling the Gospel in Leviticus
At first glance, the book of Leviticus may seem like an unlikely place to find the gospel. After all, it’s primarily a collection of laws and rituals that can appear disconnected from the grace of God. However, as we delve into the pages of Leviticus, we discover that it is, in fact, a treasure trove of gospel truth.
The Great High Priest
One of the most significant connections between Leviticus and the gospel is the concept of the priesthood. In the book of Hebrews, Jesus is revealed as the Great High Priest who intercedes on our behalf before God (Heb. 4:14; 10:21). This is a direct fulfillment of the priestly system established in Leviticus, where the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place to atone for the sins of the people. Jesus, however, is the perfect and eternal High Priest who offers himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
The Law: A Response to Redemption
The law is often viewed as a means to earn salvation, but this is a misconception. In Leviticus, the law is given to the Israelites after they have been redeemed from slavery in Egypt. The law is not a prerequisite for salvation but rather a response to God’s redemption. This is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are exhorted to live lives of obedience as a response to the mercies of God (Rom. 12:1).
Celebrating the Law
The longest psalm in the Bible, Psalm 119, is a celebration of the law. The psalmist delights in the law and longs to understand it more deeply. This may seem counterintuitive, but the law is not just a set of rules; it is a reflection of God’s character and a guide for living in relationship with him.
Gospel Threads in Leviticus
As we read through Leviticus, we find numerous threads that weave together to form a tapestry of gospel truth. From the sacrificial system to the priesthood, every aspect of the book points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. To read Leviticus well, we must remember two key things: (1) Jesus is the far greater priest who intercedes for us on the basis of his perfect sacrifice, and (2) obedience to God’s law is a response to his redemption, not a means to earn it.
Where is the Gospel in Leviticus?
The answer is simple: on every page. Leviticus may seem like an unlikely place to find the gospel, but as we explore its pages, we discover a rich tapestry of gospel truth that points us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
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