Dear Cornerstone Family,
After such a great start in Genesis and Exodus, many Bible readers lose steam in Leviticus. A few chapters in and they find themselves commiserating with J.L. Mays who said, “Leviticus is as barren and unknown as the dry, trackless wilderness of its setting.” Ouch!
For those who dare to keep reading, confusion and disgust usually follow. Graphic depictions of ritual sacrifices, arcane laws about skin rashes and bodily discharges, detailed instructions about feasts and fasts, frightening stories of God’s judgment. Let me guess, not exactly what you’re looking for?
And yet, the best biblical scholars throughout history agree—Leviticus is essential to our grasp of the Bible’s story. Through its many strange laws and statutes, Leviticus invites us into the center of the drama of redemption, providing the theological basis for understanding the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In our study of this rarely read, often misunderstood book, we will explore the rich complexity of the religious system of Israel and the enduring truths that inform it. Most surprisingly, we will witness the law of God given to Moses lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, our Sacrificial Lamb and Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16, 1 John 2:2).
Take time each week to click through the Preparation for Worship email that goes out Saturday evening. Listen to the hymns we’ll be singing, read the Worship Notes, and ponder the specific text on which the sermon will be based. Ask God to open your eyes and the eyes of your brothers and sisters to the marvelous mysteries of God’s grace in the book of Leviticus.
One final thing before I close. Several of you have told me you missed listening to the Life at the Corner podcast over the summer. Well, take heart, the wait is almost over! On Monday, August 18, the first episode of the new season will drop. I’m looking forward to addressing a host of biblical, theological, and cultural issues in this third season, often sharing the mic with esteemed guests. I’m having fun preparing for it, and I believe you’ll be blessed by listening to it.
If you did not know the church had a podcast, now you do! The goal of the podcast is simple: to address important matters at the intersection of life and faith with biblical wisdom. Season one and two are available now! Check it out wherever you get your podcasts and share it with friends, family, and neighbors.
Your servant,
