Commissioning for Service

July 19, 2009

Background Scripture: Leviticus 8:1 – 13
Lesson Passage: Leviticus 8:1 – 13

A Holy God demands holiness of his people. This is not merely lip service or pious acts publicly. For mankind to be fit to properly serve God, God must prepare him for such service. Rituals prescribed for Israel were visible indications of what God did spiritually. Such was the case for commissioning the priests for service to God on behalf of the people. The process was performed in the tabernacle before the people so that they could be witnesses of the event. It involved washings, garments, anointing, and sacrificial offerings. The washings were symbolic of the people being cleansed from the filth of sin so that they could stand before God clean. Of course no amount of water could wash away sins but the water did serve as a reminder that we cannot serve God in our uncleanness. After the washing, then special garments were put on the priests. Again, spiritually, God was clothing them in his righteousness. The breastplate of judgment was placed over the new garments. This was a reminder that the high priest had to bear the judgment of the people upon himself whenever he stood before the Lord on their behalf. The breastplate was fashioned by skillful craftsmen following the pattern given by God to Moses. It contained four rows of three precious stones. Each stone bore the name of one of the twelve sons of Israel. The breastplate was a memorial of the sons of Israel. The Urim and Thummim were added to the breastplate over the heart of the high priest. In times of judgment, these were cast as lots to determine the divine decision concerning a matter. Again, these were worn in the breastplate of judgment over the heart of the high priest. Judgment of God’s people should never be taken lightly—especially by those in leadership position. The mitre that was placed upon the high priest’s head was engraved with the words “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” as a sign that God would accept the gifts offered by the children of Israel. Anointing oil was then used to anoint the tabernacle and its furnishings and finally it was poured upon the head of the high priest. This anointing of the high priest was indicative of God’s Spirit resting upon him and equipping him for service before God.

The final act of consecration of the priests involved the application of blood. This act took place beyond the text of our lesson today but it is of the utmost importance that we speak of it. It is the blood that was shed that brought ultimate cleansing. The priests had to identify with the life of the sacrificial animal, in this case a ram and a bullock. This identity was established by laying their hands on the head of the animal prior to it being slain and the blood being drained form it. After this, the blood was used to purify the altar and the priests. This being completed, the priests were now consecrated and commissioned for service.


Robert C. Hudson
June 25, 2009