Deuteronomy 21:5

And the priests, the sons of Levi, shall come forward, for the LORD your God has chosen them to serve Him and pronounce blessings in His name and to give a ruling in every dispute and case of assault.

Study Bible

And the priests, the sons of Levi, shall come forward
The Levites were set apart by God for specific religious duties. Their role as priests is rooted in their selection by God to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple. This phrase emphasizes their unique position among the tribes of Israel. The Levites did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes, as their inheritance was the Lord Himself (Numbers 18:20-24). Their coming forward signifies their active role in religious and judicial matters, highlighting their authority and responsibility in the community.

for the LORD your God has chosen them to serve Him
This choice by God underscores the divine selection and sanctification of the Levites for His service. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God choosing individuals or groups for specific purposes, as seen with figures like Abraham and David. The Levites' service included maintaining the sanctuary, offering sacrifices, and teaching the law (Deuteronomy 33:10). This divine election is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His plans for His people.

and pronounce blessings in His name
The act of pronouncing blessings was a significant priestly function, symbolizing the mediation between God and His people. The Aaronic blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 is a prime example of this role. Blessings were not mere words but carried the power and authority of God when spoken by His chosen representatives. This function points to the priests as conduits of divine favor and grace, foreshadowing the ultimate blessing brought through Jesus Christ, our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16).

and to give a ruling in every dispute and case of assault
The priests also served as judges, providing rulings in legal matters. This judicial role is seen in passages like Deuteronomy 17:8-13, where difficult cases were brought to the priests and judges for resolution. Their involvement in legal disputes ensured that decisions were made according to God's law, maintaining justice and order within the community. This function highlights the integration of religious and civil duties in ancient Israel, with the priests acting as both spiritual and legal authorities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priests
These are the descendants of Levi, specifically chosen by God to serve in religious duties and to act as mediators between God and the people of Israel.

2. The Sons of Levi
This refers to the Levitical priesthood, a tribe set apart for religious service and maintaining the tabernacle and later the temple.

3. The LORD your God
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who has chosen the Levites for a special role in the community of Israel.

4. Ministering and Pronouncing Blessings
The priests are tasked with performing religious duties and invoking God's favor upon the people.

5. Cases of Dispute and Assault
The priests are also responsible for making judicial decisions in matters of conflict and violence, ensuring justice according to God's law.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Priesthood
The Levitical priesthood was divinely appointed to serve as mediators between God and His people, highlighting the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance.

The Importance of Justice
The priests' role in deciding disputes underscores the biblical principle of justice, reminding believers of the need for fairness and righteousness in all dealings.

Blessings and Intercession
The priests' duty to pronounce blessings illustrates the power of intercession and the importance of seeking God's favor and guidance in our lives.

God's Sovereign Choice
The selection of the Levites demonstrates God's sovereign will in choosing individuals for specific purposes, encouraging believers to seek and fulfill their God-given roles.

Christ as Our High Priest
The Levitical priesthood points forward to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us and provides a perfect example of service and sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levitical priesthood in Deuteronomy 21:5 reflect God's desire for order and justice within the community of Israel?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of justice and fairness, as seen in the priests' duties, to our own lives and communities today?

3. How does the concept of blessing in the Old Testament relate to the blessings we receive through Christ in the New Testament?

4. What can we learn from the Levitical priesthood about the importance of spiritual leadership and accountability in the church today?

5. How does understanding the role of the Levitical priests enhance our appreciation of Jesus Christ as our High Priest, as described in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters describe the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the Levitical priesthood.

Numbers 18
This chapter outlines the duties and privileges of the Levites, emphasizing their role in serving the tabernacle.

Malachi 2:7
This verse highlights the role of priests as messengers of the LORD, responsible for teaching and maintaining knowledge of God's law.

Hebrews 7
This chapter discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, drawing parallels and contrasts with the Levitical priesthood.