Where Are We? — Leviticus 1

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Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC
  • Location:
    • Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2)
    • Tabernacle (Lev 1:1)

Where Are We in the Text?

  • The LORD calls unto Moses and speaks to him from the tabernacle of the congregation (Lev 1:1).
  • Instructions are given for the burnt offering, detailing acceptable animals, manner of offering, and priestly handling (Lev 1:2–9).
  • Provision is made for offerings from the flock and from fowls, maintaining the same sacrificial pattern (Lev 1:10–17).

Key Persons

  • The LORD — Speaker of sacrificial instruction from within the tabernacle (Lev 1:1).
  • Moses — Mediator receiving instruction on behalf of Israel (Lev 1:1–2).
  • Aaron’s sons (the priests) — Responsible for offering and handling the sacrifice (Lev 1:5–9, 11–13).

Where Are We in Time?

  • The chapter occurs immediately after the completion and indwelling of the tabernacle (Exod 40:34–38).
  • Israel remains encamped at Sinai following covenant ratification (Exod 19–24).
  • The sacrificial system begins operation while Israel remains at Sinai.

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Tabernacle: Central sanctuary where the LORD now speaks and receives offerings (Lev 1:1).
  • Wilderness of Sinai: Location of Israel’s encampment during covenant instruction (Exod 19:1–2).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • Israel functions as a covenant nation under the Mosaic Law with prescribed access to God through sacrifice (Exod 24:7–8; Lev 1).
  • The burnt offering establishes substitutionary approach and continual worship within the theocratic system.
  • Priestly mediation is operational following tabernacle completion.

Why This Matters

  • The chapter establishes the burnt offering as the foundational sacrifice for approach to God (Lev 1).
  • It initiates the practical operation of tabernacle worship.

How This Chapter Relates to What Follows

  • Additional offerings will be defined, expanding sacrificial categories (Lev 2–4).
  • The priestly system will be further regulated and consecrated (Lev 8–10).

Summary Orientation

  • The LORD speaks from the tabernacle to Moses (Lev 1:1).
  • Instructions for the burnt offering are given (Lev 1:2–17).
  • Sacrificial worship formally begins at Sinai.
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