Lessons for Living from Leviticus, Part I
November 28, 2009
“Lessons for Living From Leviticus, Part I”
Adult Sunday Morning Bible Class
West Broad Church of Christ
November 29 and December 6, 2009
Dr. J. L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
Introduction:
The book of Leviticus had meaning for the ancient Jews. But does this 3,400-year-old document have meaning for us in 2009? Are there lessons for living from the book of Leviticus? And if so, what do those lessons mean to us as we endeavor to serve Christ in downtown Richmond?
I. Introduction to the Book of Leviticus:
The book of Leviticus is God’s guidebook for his newly redeemed people.
· purpose of the book
· the role of Moses
· focus of the book
· themes of the book
Leviticus deals with sacrifice and sanctification (holiness). Again, what were the lessons for the Jews? What are the lessons for us?
II. Lessons from Sacrifice (Approaching God Acceptably)
Contemporary people of faith often approach God based on their thoughts and ideas. We see something very different in the book of Leviticus.
· God is approached in ways that he has determined
n consideration of the Burnt Offering (1:1-17)
n consideration of the Grain Offering (2:1-16)
n consideration of the Peace Offering (3:1-17)
n consideration of the Sin/Guilt Offering
n consideration of the Trespass Offering (5:14-6:7).
Note that in each offering there is no room for Israel’s input or modification. What were the lessons for the Jews? What are the lessons for us?
Summation and Application:
God provided a means of atonement for Israel through the sacrificial system he designed. The nation was expected to approach God on his terms, not theirs. Question: What is the application of this truth in downtown Richmond? How does an ancient system of sacrifices and offerings speak to your life? What do you think? More importantly, why do you think it?
