How does Leviticus 8:1 demonstrate God's authority in giving instructions to Moses? Setting the Scene: Leviticus 8:1 “Then the LORD said to Moses,” God Speaks—The Supreme Source of Authority • “Then the LORD said…” places God, not Moses, at the origin of every instruction. • The verb “said” is literal: the covenant-making God audibly directs His servant (cf. Exodus 25:1; Numbers 1:1). • Throughout Scripture, whenever God speaks, His words carry non-negotiable weight (Psalm 33:9). The Covenant Name: Weight Behind the Words • “LORD” renders Yahweh—the self-existing One who needs no counsel (Isaiah 40:13-14). • Because Yahweh is perfect, His directives are perfect, trustworthy, and inerrant (Psalm 19:7). • Every subsequent detail of priestly ordination (Leviticus 8:2-36) stands on this bedrock of divine authority. God Initiates, Moses Mediates • Moses does not innovate; he transmits: “Moses did just as the LORD had commanded him” (Leviticus 8:4). • Hebrews 3:5 affirms, “Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house, testifying to what would be spoken later.” • The pattern underscores a chain of command—God → Moses → Israel—highlighting the necessity of obedience. Pattern Repeated Across the Pentateuch • Exodus 20:1—Law • Exodus 25:1—Tabernacle design • Leviticus 1:1—Sacrificial system • Numbers 2:1—Camp arrangement • Deuteronomy 34:10—Unique prophetic intimacy Each instance reinforces that all covenant life flows from God’s voice. Implications for Worship and Life Today • Worship begins with listening; we do not approach God on our own terms. • Scripture’s literal words remain the final authority for doctrine and practice (2 Timothy 3:16). • Like Moses, believers are called to faithful transmission, not alteration, of God’s revealed truth (Jude 3). |
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