Levitical Background

OK. So as I have been reading through the book of Hebrews I keep coming across references to Jesus being a better High Priest. He is even given the title of being a priest in the order of Melchizedek. I also find it interesting that Jesus is given the role of a priest even though his human ancestry is traced through the line of Judah and not of Levi. For those who are wondering, the line of Levi was chosen for the levitical priesthood and no one outside of this lineage could be a priest, let alone the high priest. I also find it interesting that this priest Melchizedek would share bread and wine with the patriarch Abram. (maybe another posting should come surrounding that issue)

So, I think we need to do some background reading into the Book of Leviticus. This will greatly enhance our understanding of the elaborate and extensive nature of the sacrificial system and the requirements made of the priests and the people. This should be contrasted to what Jesus has accomplished and still does on behalf of those who believe and are saved.

Below is a short list of chapters that you should familiarize yourself with. Of course we're not looking for you to dig deep here but the task is to help you come to grips with the complexity and the beauty of what Jesus has done. Of course any comments or questions are encouraged.

a. Chapter 1 – burnt offerings
b. Chapter 2 - grain offering
c. Chapter 3 – peace offering
d. Chapter 4 – sin offerings
e. Chapter 5 – outline of ceremony
h. Chapter 10 – Death of Nadab & Abihu
i. Chapter 16 – Day of Atonement
j. Chapter 20 – Sanctity of Children; Sanctity of Marriage; Sanctity of Holiness
k. Chapter 26 – Blessings & Curses

Remember, you're not reading for a deep understanding, you're reading to help yourself understand what lies behind the statements in Hebrews regarding Jesus and his role as our High Priest.