Leviticus 22:18

"Speak to Aaron and his sons and all the Israelites and tell them, 'Any man of the house of Israel or any foreign resident who presents a gift for a burnt offering to the LORD, whether to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering,

Study Bible

Speak to Aaron and his sons
This phrase emphasizes the role of Aaron and his sons as the priestly lineage chosen by God to mediate between Him and the people of Israel. The Hebrew word for "speak" is "דַּבֵּר" (daber), which implies a direct and authoritative communication. Aaron and his sons were entrusted with the sacred duty of maintaining the holiness of the tabernacle and the sacrificial system. This highlights the importance of leadership and responsibility in spiritual matters, reminding us that those in positions of spiritual authority must adhere to God's commands with precision and reverence.

and to all the Israelites
The inclusion of "all the Israelites" signifies that the instructions given are not just for the priests but for the entire community. The Hebrew term "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisrael) refers to the descendants of Jacob, who was renamed Israel. This collective address underscores the communal nature of worship and obedience to God. It serves as a reminder that while leaders have specific roles, every believer is called to participate in the covenant relationship with God.

and say to them
This phrase reiterates the importance of communication and instruction in the faith community. The act of saying or proclaiming God's commands is a recurring theme in the Torah, emphasizing the oral tradition and the need for clear transmission of divine laws. It reflects the responsibility of leaders to ensure that God's words are understood and followed by the people.

If any man of the house of Israel
The phrase "any man" (Hebrew: "אִישׁ" - ish) indicates that the following instructions apply to every individual within the community, regardless of status or position. The "house of Israel" refers to the entire nation, emphasizing unity and collective identity. This inclusivity highlights the personal responsibility each person has in their relationship with God and in the practice of their faith.

or any foreigner living in Israel
The mention of "any foreigner" (Hebrew: "גֵּר" - ger) living among the Israelites shows the openness of the covenant community to those who are not ethnically Israelite but choose to live among them and worship the God of Israel. This inclusion reflects God's heart for all nations and foreshadows the New Testament teaching of the gospel being available to all people. It also demonstrates the importance of hospitality and integration within the faith community.

presents a gift for a burnt offering to the LORD
The act of presenting a "gift" (Hebrew: "קָרְבָּן" - korban) for a burnt offering signifies a voluntary act of worship and devotion. The burnt offering, or "עֹלָה" (olah), was a sacrifice that was completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total surrender and dedication to God. This offering was a way for individuals to express their commitment and seek atonement, highlighting the importance of sacrificial worship in maintaining a right relationship with God.

whether to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering
This phrase distinguishes between offerings made to fulfill a vow (Hebrew: "נֶדֶר" - neder) and those given as a freewill offering (Hebrew: "נְדָבָה" - nedavah). A vow was a solemn promise made to God, often in response to a specific need or blessing, while a freewill offering was given out of gratitude and devotion without any obligation. This distinction underscores the varied ways in which individuals can express their faith and devotion, reminding us that God values both our commitments and our spontaneous acts of worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron and His Sons
Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel. His sons were also appointed as priests, serving in the tabernacle and later in the temple.

2. The Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, also known as the children of Israel, who were chosen by God to be His people and to follow His laws.

3. Aliens Residing in Israel
Non-Israelites who lived among the Israelites. They were often included in certain religious practices and laws, reflecting God's inclusive nature.

4. Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering that was completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. It was a common form of worship and atonement in ancient Israel.

5. Vow and Freewill Offering
A vow offering was made in fulfillment of a promise to God, while a freewill offering was given voluntarily out of gratitude or devotion.

Teaching Points

Inclusivity in Worship
God's instructions to include both Israelites and aliens in the sacrificial system demonstrate His desire for all people to have access to Him. This reflects the New Testament teaching that salvation through Christ is available to all, regardless of background.

Wholehearted Dedication
The burnt offering, being completely consumed, symbolizes total dedication to God. Believers today are called to live lives fully devoted to God, offering themselves as living sacrifices.

Fulfillment of Vows
Making and fulfilling vows to God is a serious commitment. Believers should be mindful of their promises to God and strive to fulfill them with integrity.

Voluntary Worship
The concept of freewill offerings highlights the importance of giving to God out of love and gratitude, not merely obligation. Our worship and service should be motivated by a genuine desire to honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of aliens in the sacrificial system reflect God's character and His plan for humanity?

2. In what ways can we offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

3. What are some modern-day equivalents of fulfilling vows to God, and how can we ensure we are faithful in these commitments?

4. How can the principle of freewill offerings inspire our approach to giving and serving in the church today?

5. How does understanding the original context of Leviticus 22:18 enhance our appreciation for the inclusivity of the Gospel message?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12:49
This verse emphasizes the principle that there is one law for both the native-born and the foreigner residing among the Israelites, highlighting the inclusivity seen in Leviticus 22:18.

Numbers 15:14-16
These verses reiterate the inclusion of foreigners in the sacrificial system, showing that God's laws and blessings were available to all who lived among His people.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of offerings in the Old Testament, but in a spiritual and personal sense.