Leviticus 22:10

No one outside a priest's family may eat the sacred offering, nor may the guest of a priest or his hired hand eat it.

Study Bible

No one outside a priest’s family may eat the sacred offering
This phrase establishes the exclusivity of the sacred offerings to the priestly family, emphasizing the holiness and sanctity of the offerings. In the context of Leviticus, the sacred offerings were portions of sacrifices designated for the priests, who served as mediators between God and the Israelites. This restriction underscores the separation between the holy and the common, a recurring theme in Leviticus. The priesthood, originating from Aaron's lineage, was set apart for specific duties, and this exclusivity highlights the importance of maintaining purity and reverence in worship practices. This principle of separation can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers, where spiritual purity and dedication are emphasized.

nor may the guest of a priest
The mention of a guest, or sojourner, indicates that even those who might be temporarily residing with a priest are not permitted to partake in the sacred offerings. This reflects the broader cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where hospitality was highly valued, yet boundaries regarding sacred practices were strictly maintained. The guest, though welcomed into the priest's home, does not share in the priestly privileges. This distinction reinforces the idea that access to the sacred is not merely a matter of proximity or association but is determined by divine ordinance.

or his hired hand eat it
The inclusion of a hired hand, or servant, further delineates the boundaries of who may partake in the sacred offerings. In ancient Israel, hired hands were often non-Israelites or individuals without a permanent status within the community. This restriction highlights the importance of covenant identity and the special role of the priestly family in the religious life of Israel. The hired hand, despite being part of the household economy, does not share in the covenantal privileges. This can be seen as a type pointing to the New Testament, where Jesus Christ, as the ultimate High Priest, extends the invitation to partake in the sacred through faith, transcending ethnic and social boundaries.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, set apart to perform the duties of the tabernacle and later the temple. They were responsible for offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sacred offerings.

2. Sacred Offering
These were portions of sacrifices that were designated as holy and set apart for consumption by the priests and their families. They symbolized the provision and blessing of God.

3. Outsiders
Refers to anyone not belonging to the priestly family, including guests and hired workers. They were not permitted to partake in the sacred offerings, emphasizing the sanctity and exclusivity of these offerings.

4. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites where sacrifices and offerings were made. It was a place of divine presence and holiness.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law through Moses, including the regulations concerning offerings and priestly conduct.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The sacred offerings were a symbol of God's holiness and provision. Just as the priests were set apart, believers today are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Respect for Divine Ordinances
The restriction on who could eat the sacred offerings underscores the importance of respecting God's commands and the boundaries He sets. This teaches us to honor God's instructions in our lives.

Spiritual Privileges and Responsibilities
The priests had the privilege of partaking in the sacred offerings, but with it came the responsibility to maintain purity. Believers, as a spiritual priesthood, have privileges in Christ but must also uphold their responsibilities.

Community and Inclusion
While the sacred offerings were exclusive, the broader community of Israel was included in God's covenant. This balance of exclusivity and inclusion can guide how we engage with our faith communities today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 22:10 apply to our daily lives as Christians today?

2. In what ways can we respect and honor God's commands in our modern context, similar to the respect shown for the sacred offerings?

3. How does understanding the role of the Old Testament priesthood enhance our appreciation of being called a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can balance the exclusivity of our faith with the call to be inclusive and loving towards others?

5. How can we ensure that we are fulfilling both the privileges and responsibilities of our spiritual calling in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the foundation for the priestly duties and privileges, including the consumption of sacred offerings.

Numbers 18
Expands on the rights and responsibilities of the priests, including the portions of offerings they are entitled to eat, reinforcing the exclusivity mentioned in Leviticus 22:10.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a "royal priesthood," drawing a spiritual parallel to the Old Testament priesthood and emphasizing the call to holiness and separation.