In what ways does Leviticus 7:7 highlight the role of the priesthood? Verse in Focus Leviticus 7:7 — “The guilt offering is like the sin offering; there is one law for both. The priest who makes atonement with it shall have it.” Key Observations • One unified statute governs both offerings. • A specific priest performs the act of atonement. • That same priest receives the offering as his portion. How the Verse Highlights the Priesthood • Mediator of Atonement – The wording “makes atonement” underscores the priest’s God-appointed role as the go-between for sinner and Holy God (cf. Leviticus 16:16; Hebrews 5:1). • Teacher and Guardian of God’s Law – “One law for both” shows that priests must know, apply, and teach the sacrificial statutes consistently (Leviticus 10:11; Malachi 2:7). • Recipient of God’s Provision – “Shall have it” indicates that God supplies for His servants through the offerings (Numbers 18:8–9; 1 Corinthians 9:13). • Bearer of Covenant Responsibility – The personal pronoun singles out the officiating priest, highlighting accountability before God for proper ritual and faithful service (Leviticus 22:9; Ezekiel 44:23-24). Connections to the Wider Law • Leviticus 6:25–26 parallels the same principle for the sin offering. • Deuteronomy 18:1-5 broadens the concept: the priesthood lives on what belongs to the LORD. Foreshadowing the Perfect Priest • The verse anticipates Christ, the ultimate High Priest who both offers and is the offering (Hebrews 9:11-14; 10:11-14). • In Him, believers become “a holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5), called to proclaim the once-for-all atonement while trusting God’s provision. |
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