Leviticus 9:4

an ox and a ram for a peace offering to sacrifice before the LORD, and a grain offering mixed with oil. For today the LORD will appear to you.'"

Study Bible

an ox and a ram for a peace offering to sacrifice before the LORD
The peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving and communion with God. The ox and ram were significant animals in sacrificial rituals, symbolizing strength and leadership. The peace offering was unique in that it was shared between the altar, the priests, and the offerer, symbolizing fellowship with God. This offering foreshadows the ultimate peace offering, Jesus Christ, who reconciles humanity to God. The use of an ox and a ram highlights the importance of the sacrifice, as these were valuable animals, indicating the seriousness of the offering and the desire for peace with God.

and a grain offering mixed with oil
The grain offering, often accompanying other sacrifices, symbolized dedication and gratitude to God for His provision. Mixing it with oil, a symbol of the Holy Spirit, signifies the anointing and sanctification of the offering. This offering represents the work of human hands, acknowledging God's provision and blessing. The grain offering points to Christ as the Bread of Life, who sustains and nourishes believers. The use of oil also connects to the anointing of kings and priests, prefiguring Christ's role as the Anointed One.

For today the LORD will appear to you.’”
This phrase emphasizes the immediacy and significance of God's presence among His people. The appearance of the LORD signifies His approval and acceptance of the sacrifices, as well as His desire to dwell among His people. This moment foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God in Jesus Christ, who is Emmanuel, "God with us." The anticipation of God's appearance underscores the holiness required to approach Him and the grace extended to the Israelites through the sacrificial system. This divine encounter is a precursor to the New Testament promise of God's presence through the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is conveying God's instructions for the sacrificial offerings.

2. Aaron
The high priest, who is performing the sacrifices as instructed by God through Moses.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, witnessing the sacrificial system and the presence of God.

4. The Tabernacle
The sacred place where the offerings are made and where God's presence is manifested.

5. The LORD
The God of Israel, who promises to appear to His people through the sacrificial system.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system in Leviticus points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and provides a way for reconciliation with God.

God's Presence Among His People
The promise of God's appearance highlights His desire to dwell among His people. This is fulfilled in the New Testament through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for the offerings underscore the importance of obedience to God's commands. Our worship and service should align with God's revealed will.

The Role of the Mediator
Aaron's role as a mediator between God and the Israelites points to Jesus Christ, our ultimate mediator, who intercedes on our behalf.

The Peace Offering
The peace offering symbolizes fellowship and communion with God. It reminds us of the peace we have with God through Jesus Christ and encourages us to live in harmony with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sacrificial system in Leviticus 9:4 point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

2. In what ways can we experience God's presence in our lives today, as the Israelites did through the tabernacle?

3. What does the role of Aaron as a mediator teach us about the importance of Jesus' intercession for us?

4. How can we ensure that our worship and service are in obedience to God's instructions, as seen in the detailed offerings?

5. Reflect on the peace offering. How can we actively pursue peace and fellowship with God and others in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the initial instructions for the consecration of Aaron and his sons, which is directly related to the events in Leviticus 9.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament chapter discusses the limitations of the old sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate high priest and sacrifice.

Psalm 50
This psalm emphasizes that God desires a heart of obedience and thanksgiving rather than mere ritualistic sacrifices.