Leviticus 7:28 – “The Lord said to Moses,”
Extended Explanation
Leviticus 7:28 begins a new section of instruction from God to Moses. This verse, though brief, is significant because it sets the stage for the detailed commands that follow regarding the offerings the Israelites were to bring to the Lord. The phrase “The Lord said to Moses” is a familiar one in the book of Leviticus, marking the beginning of a direct communication from God to His chosen leader, Moses. This communication serves as a reminder that the instructions given are not human inventions but divine directives meant to guide the people in their worship and daily living.
This verse underscores the authority behind the laws and rituals described in Leviticus. Everything that follows is not simply a matter of tradition or culture but comes directly from God, who is teaching His people how to live in a way that honors Him and maintains their covenant relationship.
Historical Context
In the context of ancient Israel, Moses was the mediator between God and the people. After the Israelites were delivered from Egypt, God gave them the Law at Mount Sinai, with Moses serving as the conduit for these divine instructions. The laws given in Leviticus were part of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, outlining how the people were to live, worship, and maintain their distinct identity as God’s chosen people.
The book of Leviticus is largely concerned with issues of holiness, purity, and the proper way to approach God. The instructions given to Moses were meant to ensure that the Israelites would remain in right standing with God, particularly through the sacrificial system, which played a central role in their worship.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Leviticus 7:28 highlights the importance of divine revelation and the authority of God’s word. The fact that God spoke directly to Moses and provided specific instructions underscores the belief that God cares deeply about how His people live and worship. This verse reminds us that God is not distant or indifferent but actively involved in guiding His people.
Additionally, this verse emphasizes the role of Moses as a mediator. Just as Moses communicated God’s laws to the Israelites, Jesus serves as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, bringing the fullness of God’s revelation and establishing a new covenant through His life, death, and resurrection.
Literary Analysis
Leviticus 7:28 is part of a formulaic expression that occurs frequently throughout the book of Leviticus. The phrase “The Lord said to Moses” serves as a literary marker, indicating that what follows is a direct communication from God. This formula establishes a rhythm in the text, emphasizing the ongoing nature of God’s instructions to His people.
The verse’s simplicity and directness reinforce the idea that God’s commands are clear and authoritative. There is no ambiguity in the source of the instructions—God speaks, and Moses relays His words to the people.
Biblical Cross-References
A key cross-reference is found in Exodus 20:1, where God begins the Ten Commandments with, “And God spoke all these words.” This mirrors the introduction in Leviticus 7:28 and underscores the divine origin of the commandments given to Israel. Another relevant reference is Deuteronomy 5:27, where the Israelites acknowledge Moses’ role as their mediator, asking him to listen to God’s commands and then relay them to the people.
In the New Testament, Hebrews 3:5-6 contrasts the faithfulness of Moses as a servant in God’s house with the greater faithfulness of Christ as a Son over God’s house, highlighting the continuity and fulfillment of God’s revelation through Jesus.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Leviticus 7:28 serves as a reminder of the importance of God’s word and the need to take His commands seriously. While the specific laws given to the Israelites may not apply in the same way to Christians today, the principle of listening to and obeying God’s word remains central to the life of faith.
This verse also encourages believers to recognize the authority of Scripture. Just as the Israelites were to follow the instructions given through Moses, Christians are called to follow the teachings of Jesus and the apostles as recorded in the Bible. This involves a commitment to understanding and applying God’s word in every aspect of life.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Leviticus 7:28 reflects God’s love in that He provides clear guidance for His people. By speaking directly to Moses and giving specific instructions, God demonstrates His desire to lead His people in a way that promotes holiness, justice, and community. God’s willingness to communicate with His people shows that He is not distant or unapproachable but is deeply invested in their well-being and spiritual growth.
God’s love is also evident in the way He establishes a relationship with His people based on His word. The instructions given in Leviticus were meant to help the Israelites live in a way that honored God and reflected His holiness. This loving guidance continues in the New Testament, where God’s word, through Jesus, offers direction and hope for all believers.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Leviticus 7:28 connects to Jesus Christ in that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s revelation to humanity. While Moses served as a mediator who conveyed God’s laws to Israel, Jesus is the final and complete revelation of God’s will. In Hebrews 1:1-2, it says, “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.” This verse highlights the continuity of God’s communication with His people, culminating in the person and work of Jesus.
Through Jesus, believers have direct access to God’s word and are invited into a relationship with Him that is based on grace and truth. The commands given through Moses find their fulfillment in Christ, who not only teaches God’s will but also empowers believers to live it out.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Leviticus 7:28 challenge you to take God’s word more seriously in your daily life?
- In what ways can you recognize and respect the authority of Scripture in your decisions and actions?
- How does this verse encourage you to appreciate the role of leadership and mediation in the Christian faith, both in the example of Moses and in the work of Christ?
- What can you learn from the connection between God’s direct communication with Moses and the way He speaks to us today through Jesus and the Bible?