"And they shall eat those things wherewith the atonement was made, to consecrate and to sanctify them: but a stranger shall not eat thereof because they are holy."
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and is a continuation of the narrative that began in Genesis. It focuses on the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to their liberation and covenant with God at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 29, God provides detailed instructions to Moses regarding the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests before Him.
Verse Explanation:In Exodus 29:33, God instructs Moses about the consumption of certain offerings that were used in the consecration process of the priests. The verse conveys three main points:
- Eating the Atonement Offerings:The phrase "they shall eat those things wherewith the atonement was made" refers to certain parts of the sacrificial animals that were offered as atonement for sin. These offerings were essential for the consecration and sanctification of the priests. By partaking in these offerings, the priests were participating in a symbolic act of sharing in the atonement made on their behalf.
- Consecration and Sanctification:The consumption of the atonement offerings served to consecrate and sanctify the priests. Consecration means to set apart or dedicate someone or something to a sacred purpose. In this case, it refers to the process of setting apart Aaron and his sons for the holy office of priesthood. Sanctification, on the other hand, means to be made holy or purified. By partaking in the sacred offerings, the priests were symbolically purified and made holy before God.
- Restriction for Strangers:The verse also states that "a stranger shall not eat thereof because they are holy." Here, a "stranger" refers to anyone who is not a priest from the line of Aaron. In the context of the Old Testament priesthood, only those who were specifically consecrated and anointed as priests had the right to partake in these holy offerings. This restriction emphasizes the sacred nature of the priestly office and the exclusivity of this privilege.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Atonement and Priesthood:The atonement offerings mentioned in this verse foreshadow the ultimate atonement that Jesus Christ, the High Priest, would make on behalf of humanity through His sacrifice on the cross. Just as the priests partook of these offerings for consecration, believers today are consecrated and sanctified through faith in Christ’s atoning work.
- Holiness and Reverence:The concept of holiness is prominent throughout the Bible, especially when it comes to approaching God. The verse highlights the importance of treating holy things with reverence and respect. As Christians, we are called to live holy lives and to approach God with awe and humility.
- The Privilege of Access to God:In the Old Testament, only a select few were allowed access to God in the tabernacle and later the temple. However, through Jesus Christ, all believers now have direct access to God (Hebrews 4:14-16). This privilege comes with the responsibility of living a consecrated and holy life.
Overall, Exodus 29:33 reminds us of the significance of consecration, sanctification, and the privilege of drawing near to God. It also points us to the ultimate atonement and priesthood found in Jesus Christ.
