Leviticus 9:5

So they took what Moses had commanded to the front of the Tent of Meeting, and the whole congregation drew near and stood before the LORD.

Study Bible

So they took what Moses had commanded
This phrase refers to the offerings and sacrifices that Moses instructed the Israelites to prepare as part of the consecration ceremony for Aaron and his sons. The command comes from God, delivered through Moses, emphasizing the importance of obedience to divine instructions. This act of obedience is a recurring theme in the Pentateuch, highlighting the necessity of following God's law precisely. The offerings included a sin offering, a burnt offering, and a peace offering, each with specific significance in the sacrificial system.

to the front of the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their desert wanderings. It served as the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Bringing the offerings to the front of the Tent signifies approaching God with reverence and the proper protocol. The Tabernacle's design and function foreshadow the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity.

and the whole congregation drew near
This indicates the communal aspect of worship and sacrifice in ancient Israel. The entire community was involved in the consecration of the priesthood, signifying their collective responsibility and participation in the covenant relationship with God. This gathering also reflects the unity and shared faith of the Israelites, a theme echoed in the New Testament where believers are encouraged to gather together in worship and fellowship.

and stood before the LORD
Standing before the LORD signifies a posture of respect, readiness, and attentiveness to God's presence and commands. In the context of Leviticus, it underscores the holiness required to approach God, as well as the mediating role of the priesthood. This phrase also points to the eschatological hope found in Revelation, where believers will stand before God in His presence eternally, made possible through the redemptive work of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His laws and commandments. In this context, Moses acts as the mediator between God and the people.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It served as the central place of worship and sacrifice.

3. The Whole Congregation
Refers to the assembly of the Israelites who were present to witness the sacrificial offerings and the manifestation of God's presence.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the central figure in the worship and sacrificial system of Israel.

5. Sacrificial Offerings
The specific offerings commanded by God through Moses, which were to be presented as acts of worship and atonement.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in bringing what Moses commanded highlights the importance of following God's instructions precisely. In our lives, we should strive to obey God's Word as it is revealed to us.

The Role of Mediation
Moses acted as a mediator between God and the people, foreshadowing Christ's role as our ultimate mediator. We can approach God with confidence through Jesus.

The Importance of Community Worship
The whole congregation gathered to witness the sacrifices, emphasizing the communal aspect of worship. As believers, we should value and participate in corporate worship.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tent of Meeting was a symbol of God's presence. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our bodies His temple.

The Significance of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system pointed to the need for atonement and foreshadowed Christ's ultimate sacrifice. We are called to live sacrificially, offering our lives as living sacrifices to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Israelites in Leviticus 9:5 challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways does the role of Moses as a mediator in this passage point to the work of Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that our worship is pleasing to God and reflects the unity seen in the congregation of Israel?

4. What does the presence of God in the Tent of Meeting teach us about His desire to dwell among His people, and how does this relate to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit today?

5. How can we apply the concept of sacrificial living in our modern context, and what New Testament scriptures support this idea?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides the instructions for the consecration of the priests, which is directly related to the events in Leviticus 9, where the priests begin their ministry.

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

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly role in Leviticus to the spiritual role of believers today.