Big Idea: Ordination to ministry conveys dignity to a vital profession.
Understanding the Text
The description of the various kinds of sacrifices in Leviticus 1–7 assumes the existence of the Aaronic priesthood as anticipated in Exodus 29. But these sacrifices cannot be performed until the priesthood is actually established. Leviticus 8–10 concerns the establishing of the Aaronic priesthood. Leviticus 8 describes the ordination of the Aaronic priests, as God commanded Moses in Exodus 29 and 40. Leviticus 9 goes on to describe the initiation of formal worship in the tabernacle. Leviticus 10 follows with a cautionary tale for priests: the account of the death of Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu, which warns priests to conduct their duties properly.
Historical and Cultural Insights
The ceremo…