Exodus Chapter 29

God instructed the Israelites exactly how the priests would be consecrated or set apart for service to Him.  We typically think in our modern culture that such a role would require lots of education and job shadowing for the task.  What God required was that the priest would be humbled by a public washing where everyone could see.  Then the priest would be clothed by someone else – clothes made specifically for the role as God prescribed.  The priest was then anointed with oil; a picture of the Holy Spirit being poured upon his head.  To be consecrated meant a humble recognition of his uncleanness and a need to be “cleaned up” and forgiven by the shedding of blood.  This man needed to recognize his sin before a Holy God.

Let's Reflect

1. The line of priests began with the brother of Moses, Aaron and who else?

2. Notice that God called Aaron to this special task.  Aaron was to become the go-between before the sins of the people and a Holy God.  There was only one problem, Aaron himself was a sinner.  Aaron and the other priests would first need to be consecrated for the service to the Lord.  This involved what specific sacrifices?  See verses 10 and 19.

3. Where were the unclean parts of the animal taken?

4. The consecration of a priest lasted for how long?

5. What part of the sacrificed animal was spread onto the ear, thumb and toe of the priest?

Leviticus 17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.

6. The best parts of the second ram were put together with the bread, cake and the wafer.   It was first waved before God to present it to Him. Then these portions were burnt on the altar as an act of complete devotion.  What was done with the other parts?  See verse 33.

7. After the priests had finished the seven days of consecration to the Lord they were deemed holy for service.  Going forward they would offer sacrifices.  What do verses 38 and 39 tell us about the sacrifices?

8. All of this was done because God wanted to meet with His people.  What promise did God give to His people?