Leviticus 8:5

And Moses said to them, "This is what the LORD has commanded to be done."

Study Bible

And Moses said to them
Moses, as the leader and prophet of Israel, acts as the intermediary between God and the people. His role is crucial in conveying God's instructions, highlighting the importance of obedience to divine commands. This reflects the broader biblical theme of prophetic leadership, as seen in figures like Samuel (1 Samuel 3:20) and Elijah (1 Kings 18:36).

“This is what the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the Tetragrammaton, YHWH, the covenant name of God. This emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of God with Israel. It underscores the authority and divine origin of the instructions, linking back to God's covenant promises to Abraham (Genesis 17:1-8).

has commanded
The concept of divine command is central to the covenant relationship. God's commands are not arbitrary but are given for the well-being and holiness of His people (Deuteronomy 6:24). This reflects the broader biblical narrative where obedience to God's commands is a sign of faithfulness, as seen in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9).

to be done.”
The emphasis on action ("to be done") highlights the practical aspect of faith. It is not enough to hear God's commands; they must be enacted. This anticipates the New Testament teaching in James 1:22, where believers are called to be doers of the word. The specific context here involves the consecration of Aaron and his sons, a type of Christ as our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16), foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment of priestly duties in Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to mediate His laws and commandments. In this context, Moses acts as the intermediary between God and the people, ensuring that God's instructions are followed precisely.

2. The Congregation
The assembly of the Israelites who are gathered to witness the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. This event underscores the communal aspect of worship and obedience to God's commands.

3. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who commands the consecration of the priests. His instructions are central to the establishment of the priesthood and the proper worship practices of Israel.

4. Aaron and His Sons
The individuals being consecrated as priests. This event marks the beginning of the Levitical priesthood, which plays a crucial role in the religious life of Israel.

5. Consecration Ceremony
The event where Aaron and his sons are set apart for priestly service. This involves specific rituals and offerings as commanded by God, highlighting the importance of holiness and obedience.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' actions demonstrate the importance of following God's instructions precisely. In our lives, we are called to obey God's Word and trust in His guidance.

The Role of Leadership in Worship
Moses' leadership in the consecration ceremony shows the responsibility of leaders to guide others in worship and obedience. Christian leaders today are called to shepherd their congregations faithfully.

The Community's Role in Worship
The presence of the congregation highlights the communal aspect of worship. As believers, we are part of a community that supports and encourages one another in our faith journey.

The Significance of Consecration
The consecration of Aaron and his sons signifies being set apart for God's service. As Christians, we are called to live holy lives, dedicated to serving God and others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience to God's command in Leviticus 8:5 serve as a model for our own obedience to God's Word today?

2. In what ways can church leaders today emulate Moses' role in guiding their congregations in worship and obedience?

3. How does the concept of the priesthood in Leviticus relate to the New Testament teaching that all believers are part of a "royal priesthood"?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and encourage our faith community, similar to the congregation's role in the consecration ceremony?

5. How can we apply the principle of consecration in our daily lives, ensuring that we are set apart for God's service in all that we do?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the detailed instructions for the consecration of the priests, which Moses is now implementing in Leviticus 8. It emphasizes the continuity and faithfulness to God's commands.

Hebrews 5
This New Testament passage discusses the role of the high priest, drawing connections to Jesus as the ultimate High Priest. It highlights the fulfillment of the priestly role in Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks of believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament concept of all believers being set apart for God's service.