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 and all the Israelites and tell them
This phrase establishes the audience and authority of the message. Aaron and his sons, as priests, are responsible for maintaining the sanctity of worship and sacrifices. The inclusion of "all the Israelites" emphasizes the communal nature of the instructions, highlighting that the laws are not just for the priests but for the entire nation. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where the priests serve as mediators. The directive to speak to the entire community underscores the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining holiness.

Any man of the house of Israel or any foreign resident
This phrase indicates inclusivity in worship practices. The "house of Israel" refers to the descendants of Jacob, emphasizing the covenant people. The mention of "any foreign resident" (ger) shows that non-Israelites living among them could also participate in certain religious practices. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's concern for the nations and foreshadows the New Testament inclusion of Gentiles in the faith community (e.g., Acts 10).

Who presents a gift for a burnt offering to the LORD
The "burnt offering" (olah) is one of the oldest and most significant offerings, symbolizing complete dedication to God. It was entirely consumed by fire, representing total surrender and atonement. The act of presenting a gift to the LORD signifies an act of worship and reverence. This offering is a type of Christ, who offered Himself completely to God (Hebrews 10:10).

Whether to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering
This phrase distinguishes between two types of offerings. A vow offering is made in fulfillment of a promise to God, often in response to a divine blessing or deliverance. A freewill offering is given voluntarily, without obligation, as an expression of gratitude or devotion. Both types of offerings reflect the heart's intent and the importance of sincerity in worship. The concept of vows is seen throughout Scripture, such as Hannah's vow in 1 Samuel 1:11, and freewill offerings are encouraged in passages like 2 Corinthians 9:7, which speaks to the cheerful giver.

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.