Leviticus 7:35

This is the portion of the offerings made by fire to the LORD for Aaron and his sons since the day they were presented to serve the LORD as priests.

Study Bible

This is the portion of the food offerings to the LORD
The phrase refers to the specific share of sacrificial offerings designated for the priests. In the Levitical system, offerings were divided into portions for God, the priests, and the offerer. This system ensured the sustenance of the priestly class, who had no land inheritance. The food offerings, or sacrifices, were a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing atonement and fellowship with God. The portion for the priests underscores their role as mediators between God and the people.

for Aaron and his sons
Aaron and his sons were chosen by God to serve as the priestly family, a role that was hereditary. This selection is rooted in the narrative of Exodus, where Aaron is appointed as the first high priest. The priesthood was a sacred office, and the priests were responsible for performing sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and teaching the law. This lineage continued until the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, and it highlights the importance of family and lineage in the biblical narrative.

since the day they were presented
This refers to the consecration of Aaron and his sons, which is detailed in Leviticus 8. The presentation involved a series of rituals, including washing, anointing, and the offering of sacrifices. This consecration set them apart for their sacred duties. The concept of being "presented" to God is significant, as it implies a formal dedication and acceptance into divine service, a theme that resonates with the New Testament idea of presenting oneself as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1).

to serve the LORD as priests
The role of the priests was to serve God and the community by facilitating worship and maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Their service included offering sacrifices, teaching the law, and interceding for the people. This priestly service is a type of Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The priesthood of Aaron and his sons foreshadows the perfect and eternal priesthood of Jesus, who mediates a new covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He was chosen by God to lead the priestly line and serve in the tabernacle.

2. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who were also appointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle, continuing the priestly duties.

3. Offerings Made by Fire
These are sacrifices that were burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the LORD, signifying atonement and dedication.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established the priesthood and the sacrificial system for Israel.

5. Priestly Service
The duties and responsibilities assigned to Aaron and his sons, including offering sacrifices, maintaining the tabernacle, and interceding for the people.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priesthood
The priesthood was established by God to mediate between Him and the people, highlighting the need for a mediator in spiritual matters.

Provision for God's Servants
God provided for the needs of the priests through the offerings, teaching us about His provision for those who serve Him.

Holiness and Service
The consecration of Aaron and his sons underscores the importance of holiness in service to God, a principle that applies to all believers today.

Christ as Our High Priest
The priestly system foreshadows the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us and provides the perfect sacrifice for sin.

Our Spiritual Service
As believers, we are called to serve God with dedication and holiness, following the example set by the priests in the Old Testament.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Aaron and his sons as priests inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

2. In what ways does the provision for the priests through offerings reflect God's care for those who serve Him?

3. How can the concept of holiness in the priestly service be applied to our daily lives as Christians?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Old Testament priesthood and the priesthood of all believers as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How does understanding Christ's role as our High Priest enhance our appreciation of His sacrifice and intercession for us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, providing context for their priestly service and the offerings they were to receive.

Hebrews 5
This New Testament passage discusses the role of the high priest, drawing parallels between Aaron's priesthood and the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks to the priesthood of all believers, connecting the Old Testament priestly service to the New Testament concept of spiritual service.