What connections exist between Leviticus 27:13 and New Testament teachings on redemption? Setting the Scene in Leviticus 27:13 “ ‘But if the owner decides to redeem the animal, he must add a fifth to its valuation.’ ” The Fifth-Part Principle • The animal had been consecrated to the LORD; reclaiming it was possible, yet never cheap. • A literal 20 percent surcharge underscored the weight of a vow and the holiness of what now belonged to God. • The extra cost taught Israel that redemption always carries an added, measurable price. New Testament Mirrors of the Redemption Price • Mark 10:45 — “to give His life as a ransom for many.” • 1 Corinthians 6:20 — “you were bought at a price.” • 1 Peter 1:18-19 — “not with perishable things like silver or gold… but with the precious blood of Christ.” • Hebrews 9:12 — “He entered… by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption.” The identical pattern emerges: something surrendered to God (our lives, forfeited by sin) can be reclaimed only through an added, sacrificial payment. How the Fifth Foreshadows the Cross • Added value — The 20 percent premium previews the surpassing worth of Christ’s blood over any earthly valuation (Hebrews 10:4-10). • Voluntary payment — Just as the owner “decides to redeem,” Jesus willingly lays down His life (John 10:17-18). • Full satisfaction — The priest’s valuation was final; once the fifth was paid, the animal was truly redeemed. Christ’s ransom is likewise complete and irreversible (Hebrews 9:26). • Holiness maintained — The surcharge protected God’s honor; Calvary upholds divine justice while extending mercy (Romans 3:24-26). Living Out the Lesson • Remember the cost: redemption is free to us but infinitely costly to Christ. • Honor your vows: let your “yes” be “yes” (Matthew 5:37) in light of the seriousness Leviticus displays. • Walk in freedom: you have been “redeemed from the curse of the law” (Galatians 3:13); live as a liberated servant. |
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