“Which the LORD commanded to be given them of the children of Israel, in the day that he anointed them, by a statute forever throughout their generations.”
Context:Leviticus is part of the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. It contains detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the Israelites regarding their worship, rituals, and moral conduct. Leviticus 7 specifically deals with various offerings and sacrifices presented to the Lord.
Meaning and Significance:
Divine Command:Leviticus 7:36 highlights the authority behind the commandments given to the Israelites. The verse emphasizes that these instructions were directly commanded by the Lord. The Israelites were expected to follow these statutes diligently, knowing that they came from God Himself.
The Day of Anointing:The verse refers to “the day that he anointed them.” This likely refers to the day the priests were consecrated and set apart for their sacred duties. Anointing with oil was a symbolic act representing God’s chosen ones and their authority to mediate between God and the people. This anointing set them apart for their priestly service, making them eligible to receive the designated portions of the offerings.
Continuity and Generations:The statute mentioned in the verse was intended to be observed perpetually “throughout their generations.” This indicates that the instructions for offering specific portions of sacrifices to the priests were not temporary but were to be observed by subsequent generations of Israelites. It underlines the enduring nature of God’s commandments, reinforcing their importance and continuity.
Priestly Support:The portion of the offerings given to the priests played a vital role in sustaining them and their families. The offerings were a means of provision for the priests, as they had no inheritance in the land like the other tribes. By designating a portion of the offerings to the priests, God ensured their material needs were met, allowing them to fully dedicate themselves to their priestly responsibilities.
Spiritual Lessons:While the immediate context of Leviticus 7:36 pertains to the Levitical priesthood and the sacrificial system, there are spiritual principles that can be derived from it. For Christians, the New Testament teaches that believers are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), and Jesus Christ is the ultimate high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). We are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), offering our lives as a pleasing aroma to God. Just as the Israelites were commanded to support the priests, we are encouraged to support the ministers and servants of God’s work.
Application:
- Obedience to God’s Commands:Leviticus 7:36 reminds us of the importance of obeying God’s commandments. It emphasizes that God’s instructions are authoritative and enduring. As believers, we should strive to follow God’s commands faithfully, knowing that they are given for our benefit and in His wisdom.
- Provision for Ministry:The verse serves as a reminder that those engaged in ministry, whether full-time ministers or volunteers, should be supported and provided for by the community of believers. Just as the Israelites were instructed to provide for the priests, we should give generously to support the work of the Church and those who serve in various capacities.
- Appreciation for Christ’s Sacrifice:Reflecting on the sacrificial system in Leviticus can help us better understand and appreciate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. The offerings made by the Israelites pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who gave His life for the forgiveness of sins once and for all. Leviticus 7:36 can deepen our gratitude for the grace and mercy we have received through Jesus’ sacrifice.
Conclusion:
Leviticus 7:36 emphasizes the divine origin of the commandments given to the Israelites and the perpetual nature of the statutes regarding the portions of offerings designated for the priests. While the immediate context relates to the Old Testament sacrificial system, there are spiritual principles to be gleaned from this verse that are relevant to believers today. It calls us to obedience, provision for ministry, and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
