The Burden of Holiness: The Book of Leviticus (Week 1)

John Sullivan (FBC Trustee + Deacon) - Exodus 25:8-9; 34:29-35; 40: 34-38; Leviticus 10:1-3; Numbers 15:32-36; 2 Chronicles 5:13-14

 

Every year, thousands of people set out to read the Bible in its entirety; every year, a large percentage stop when they get to Leviticus, a book that lays out in embarrassing detail the limits of God's law for the Israelites.

What can we learn from this strange book? Join us as we seek to understand its place in the larger narrative of the Bible, and learn how it speaks to us today.

The Burden of Holiness: The Book of Leviticus

Week 1

I. Introduction

A. Author

B. Date

C. "Priestly" v. "Holiness" sources

D. The Big Themes

--- 1. Be Holy, As I Am Holy

--- 2. Holiness Looks Weird

 

II. The Positioning of Leviticus

A. Moses and the Law

B. The Tabernacle and God's Moving In

 

III. Outline of Leviticus 

A. The Five Offerings (1-7)

--- 1. Sweet Savor Offerings (1-3)

--- 2. Non-sweet Savor Offerings (4-5)

--- 3. Law of Offerings (6-7)

B. The Priests (8-10)

C. Holiness in Daily Life

D. Holy Days

E. Laws and Prophecies for the Promised Land

F. Dedication and Devotion

 

IV. Key Concepts

A. Sacred Space

B. Holiness on a local scale

 

V. What is Leviticus?

A. A Law Code

B. A Guide for Living

C. A Safety Manual

 

 

Illustration #1: Moses horned statue by Michelangelo