Exodus: A Group StudySample

What is this passage saying?

Yahweh provides instructions regarding the ceremonial cleansing and consecration of the priests to set them apart in His service.

What is this passage teaching?

The blood shed from the sacrifice of animals played an especially central role in the consecration of the priests. This blood shed was used to daub and sprinkle various parts of the tabernacle and the priests themselves. This powerful image was a reminder that no one could enter Yahweh’s presence without the shedding of blood. As the blood was put on the tips of the priest’s right ears, right thumbs, and right big toes (Exodus 29:20) it represented symbolically that they were made holy through the sacrifice of a pure unblemished animal. By daubing the ear, thumb, and toe they offered to hear the Word of God, give their hands to do the work of God, and consecrate their feet to walk in the way of God.

How do I respond?

Just as blood was necessary for the process to make the priests holy, blood is essential in making you holy too. Jesus’ blood washes us of our sins and purifies us into holy servants. Hebrews 10:10 says, “we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” By the blood of Jesus, you too have been made holy and righteous before God. As you stand on these truths, will you offer your ears to hear the Word of God? Will you give your hands to do the work of God? Will you consecrate your feet to walk in the way of God? Take some time and write out a few ways you can give yourself to the Lord over the next month. Pray that He would cleanse you of impurity, forgive you of sin, and prepare you to serve Him.