How does Leviticus 14:31 illustrate God's provision for the poor in sacrifices? Setting the Scene Leviticus 14 details God’s instructions for ceremonially cleansing a person healed of a skin disease. Ordinarily, three unblemished lambs were required (vv. 10–20). Yet God anticipates those who cannot afford such an offering and provides an alternative (vv. 21–32). Verse Under the Microscope “one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering, along with the grain offering. In this way the priest will make atonement before the LORD on behalf of the one to be cleansed.” — Leviticus 14:31 God’s Heart for the Poor • Affordability without loss of meaning – Instead of three lambs, the poor bring one lamb plus “two turtledoves or two young pigeons” (v. 22). – The blood, grain, and bird offerings cover every element of atonement exactly as the full-cost package, preserving theological integrity. • Equal access to atonement – “The priest will make atonement… for the one to be cleansed.” God guarantees that poverty will never block the way to fellowship with Him. – Exodus 30:15 echoes the principle: “The rich shall not give more and the poor shall not give less than half a shekel…to make atonement for your lives.” • Compassion woven into law – Deuteronomy 16:17: “Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you.” – God legislates mercy, demonstrating that His holiness and His kindness operate together. Theological Highlights • Substitutionary sacrifice remains intact – Whether lambs or birds, a life is given in the worshiper’s place, pointing ahead to the ultimate Lamb (John 1:29). • No second-class worshipers – The identical words “the priest will make atonement” are applied to rich and poor alike. • Foreshadowing the gospel invitation – Isaiah 55:1: “Come, buy without money and without cost.” – Luke 2:24 shows Mary and Joseph offering “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons,” fulfilling this very concession and underscoring Christ’s solidarity with the humble. Practical Take-Aways Today • Value every believer equally—status never determines worth in God’s eyes. • Structure ministry so that financial limitations never hinder participation in worship or service. • Celebrate God’s provision: He not only demands holiness; He supplies the means to approach Him. |
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