How does Leviticus 8:20 connect to Christ's ultimate sacrifice for our sins? Leviticus 8 : 20 – The Ram Divided and Consumed “He cut the ram into pieces, and Moses burned the head, the pieces, and the fat.” A Sacrifice in Pieces – A Picture of Total Consecration - The ram was cut apart so that every portion could be exposed to the altar’s fire. - Head, limbs, and inward fat all surrendered to the flame: nothing held back, nothing reserved. - The division shows that consecration is comprehensive; every facet of life is laid upon the altar. Foreshadowing Christ’s Whole-Person Offering - Head burned → Christ’s mind and will set completely on the Father’s purpose (John 6:38). - Fat consumed → the hidden, inward devotion of Jesus offered without blemish (Psalm 40:8; Hebrews 10:7). - Pieces burned → His body given over to suffering and death (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). - Entire ram consumed → Jesus “gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:2). Fire on the Altar – God’s Wrath and Pleasure Met in Christ - Burnt offerings were “a pleasing aroma” (Exodus 29:18); the smoke signaled that God’s justice was satisfied and His favor released. - At the cross, divine wrath fell fully on the Lamb of God, yet rose as a sweet aroma of perfect obedience (Romans 3:25–26). From Priestly Ordination to Perfect High Priest - The ram in Leviticus 8 ordained Aaron’s sons; Christ’s sacrifice consecrates believers as a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). - Moses handled the ram; Christ presents Himself, entering the heavenly sanctuary “by His own blood” (Hebrews 9:12). - Repeated animal sacrifices ended; “by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified” (Hebrews 10:10–14). Living in the Reality Christ Secured - Cleansed consciences enable bold access to the Father (Hebrews 10:19–22). - Every part of life—thoughts, affections, actions—now belongs on the altar in grateful response (Romans 12:1). |
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