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Hey Reading Community,
As you've probably discovered by now, the second half of Exodus reveals as much about our crazy human nature as the first half of the book—clearly the corruption of the human heart is not limited to Pharaoh. The Israelites are just as obstinate! Everything that happens between the deliverance from Egypt and the base of Mt. Sinai points forward to the first great rebellion of Israel, the manufacturing and worship of the golden calf (Exodus ch. 32).
God's presence is on the mountain overlooking Israel, and already they are breaking the covenant that they just signed up for! Luckily, Moses intercedes on the people's behalf; in this interaction, there is a great deal revealed about God's character. "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in covenant faithfulness. He forgives sin, but will not let the wicked go unpunished." (Exodus 34:6-7).
This week, we will witness the building of Israel's sacred tent, the tabernacle, which will bring us to the closing of the book of Exodus. This tent, however, creates a whole list of new problems, which is what the book of Leviticus and our videos on sacrifice, atonement, and holiness are all about.
Onwards!
Jon, Tim, & The Bible Project Crew
P.S. Want to dive deeper? Check out our blog on biblical theology. This week we explore... Animal Sacrifice? Really? |
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Chapter 4
The Covenant at Mt. Sinai |
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Week 5
Summary |
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This week we will be opening the book of Leviticus, a beautifully designed and fundamental book to understanding God's relationship with his people. However, this book is sadly misunderstood because of its cultural distance from most modern readers. One helpful way to grasp the meaning of Leviticus is to see that the book has a really interesting symmetrical design that explores three primary ways in which the corrupt Israelites can live near their Holy God without fear.
This week's reading will focus on the first half, which explores the ways in which Israel is to practice ritual sacrifice, the priesthood, and ritual purity. You'll conclude this week with a really important annual feast, the Day of Atonement, which is what next's weeks blog will be all about. |
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