What connections exist between Exodus 29:32 and the Lord's Supper in the New Testament?

Setting of Exodus 29:32

• In the priestly ordination, Aaron and his sons “are to eat the flesh of the ram and the bread that is in the basket” (Exodus 29:32).

• The meal follows a sin offering, burnt offering, and ram of ordination, sealing their consecration (Exodus 29:1–35).

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Covenant Meal Themes Shared with the Lord’s Supper

• Both meals take place immediately after a sacrifice that establishes or renews a covenant—ram of ordination (Exodus 29) and Christ’s self-offering (Luke 22:19–20; 1 Corinthians 11:25).

• Eating in God’s presence signifies fellowship and acceptance (Exodus 24:9–11; 29:32; 1 Corinthians 10:16).

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Priestly Participation vs. Royal Priesthood

• Only Aaronic priests could eat the ordination meal (Exodus 29:33).

• All believers are now a “royal priesthood” (1 Pt 2:9), invited to partake of the New-Covenant meal (1 Corinthians 11:26).

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Sacrifice Consumed: Ram and Christ

• The ram’s flesh was eaten, symbolizing internalizing the benefits of the sacrifice (Exodus 29:32–33).

• Jesus said, “Whoever eats this bread will live forever. And this bread is My flesh” (John 6:51). The Supper proclaims that we receive the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:10).

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Bread in Both Meals

• Unleavened bread of ordination was eaten alongside the meat (Exodus 29:32).

• Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, “This is My body” (Matthew 26:26). Bread remains the central emblem of shared life with God.

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Location and Presence of God

• The ordination meal was eaten “at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting” where God’s glory dwelt (Exodus 29:42–46).

• In the Supper, believers gather “in My name,” and Christ is present among them (Matthew 18:20; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29).

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Duration and Memorial Aspects

• The ordination meal marked a seven-day rite, remembered through ongoing priestly service (Exodus 29:35–37).

• The Lord’s Supper is observed “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26), continually reminding the church of Christ’s finished work.

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Takeaways for Today

• Both meals celebrate covenant fellowship secured by sacrifice.

• What was once limited to Aaron’s sons is now open to every believer through Christ.

• Eating communicates participation, identity, and obedience—truths still proclaimed each time we break the bread and drink the cup.