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Where did the Priesthood begin?
The priesthood began when God called "the church in the wilderness" (Acts.7:38, 1Cor.10:1-11, Rom.15:4) out of Egypt and brought them to Mt. Sinai. (Exod.12-19:1-16)
1. Some think that Moses copied the heathen Nations
Their thinking is that ancient civilizations had high priests and priests long before the Biblical record. They think
that Melchizedek, (Gen.14:17-24) the High Priest (who was centuries before Moses) was a Canaanite king,
proving that Moses copied. This reasoning (thinking that Melchizedek was a Canaanite king) is the foolishness
of man's wisdom. (1Cor.1:20-29; 2:1-14)
a. Jesus / Melchisedec
The truth is, Melchisedec was a pre-Cross revelation of Jesus Christ. (Heb.6:20; 7:1-28) God's Word says
that, Jesus is "made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec." (Heb.6:20) Why would God pattern
Himself after a heathen king? The Bible says, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what
fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?"
(2Cor.6:14-15)
b. Jesus was before all things
For "by him (Jesus, the Word made flesh John.1-14, Heb.1:1-2) were all things created are in heaven, and
that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers..."
He is before any man made counterfeit Canaanite "so-called" high priest
c. All things consist by Jesus
All "things were created by him, and for him: And He (Jesus) is before all things, and by him all things
consist." (Col.1:16-17)
Note: The Biblical record declares that God had all the ideas first. Not man! It is absurd (ridiculous, illogical)
to say that God copied man unless you do not believe the Bible is God's Word to us.
The Priesthood of the believer
Today, when the subject of a "priest" is discussed, most think of the Catholic or Episcopal (Church of England) Churches.1 However, God's Word declares that we (the saints) are a "royal priesthood" to offer up "spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." (1Peter.2:5-9, Rev.1:6; 5:10) What the Levitical priesthood did under Aaron the high priest is a "shadow" (i.e. a blueprint Heb.9:1-26; 10:1-10) for our everyday Christian walk before the Lord in the true Tabernacle that the Lord pitched (Heb.8:1-5) in heavenly places. (Col.3:1-3, Eph.2:6)
1. Priesthood replaced by the Church of the decline (approx. 185 - 210 A.D?)
As the Church declined down into the Dark Ages, there developed an acute distinction between the clergy and
laity / congregation. 210 AD.(?) The "priesthood" of all believers was replaced with designated priests (185 A.D.?)
in direct opposition to God's Word and they became the interpreters of the Word of God to the people. (The Bible
pattern is the Holy Spirit is the interpreter not a man. John.16:12, 1John.2:27, 1Cor.2:1-14)
(Review: Phase.2 "What happened to the Church can be compared to the life of Samson)
2. The Priesthood of the believer was restored during Reformation.
a. The Reformation
During "the 16th. Century Protestant Reformation, the Reformers rejected the Roman Catholic doctrine of the
sacrifice of the mass and the conception of the priesthood that went with it." (Encyclopedia Britannica)
(1) Remember
The Roman Catholic Church was the only Church from the time of the spiritual decline of the Church
until the Reformation. (Review: Samson and the decline of the Church from the 1st. to the 15th. Century)
(2) Reformation was not by the committee of man!
The restoration was not by committee or by a man made organization, it was the Sovereign move of God
amongst people that had a "hunger and thirst after righteousness." (Matt.5:6)
b. Priesthood of Believers was emphasized
The "priesthood of all Christians was emphasized. Consequently, ministers were substituted for priests in
Protestant churches. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
(1) However there was still a mixed multitude
The Church of England Reformers retained the title priest in The Book of Common Prayer, in order to
distinguish priests, who can celebrate Holy Communion, from deacons, who are not entitled to do
so." (Encyclopedia Britannica)
(2) Man still held on to many of his traditions
As God began to restore His Church, man still held on to many of his traditions and doctrines which
were added (Prov.30:6) to the Word of God during the decline and dark ages. This would eventually
cause some to not move on with the Spirit of God, (John.16:12-15, 1Cor.2:1-14) as He restored the Church.
The Church was now doing the same as the religious leaders that Jesus rebuked. He said "that they had
made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition." (Matt.15:6, Col.2:8)
(a) Note: The restoration / reformation of Ezra and Nehemiah
Their "mixture" hindered the purpose of God. (Ezra.9:1-2, Neh.13:1-24, James.4:1-4) God's Word to us
is to "come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing;
and I will receive you." (2Cor.6:17-18)
(b) They gave Satan the advantage
The apostle Paul warned the Corinthian to be be on alert "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us:
for we are not ignorant of his devices." (2Cor.2:11-12)
Note: "Ministers were generally called clergymen until the 19th century, when the Roman Catholic
heritage of the Church of England was emphasized and priest again became the common term."
(Encyclopedia Britannica
(Click here for explanation of Church History."What happened to the early Church?")
Who were the Priests?
The priesthood began in the Old Testament, when God separated the family of Levi out from the congregation of the children of Israel to keep the charge of the Tabernacle at Mt. Sinai (Num.1:47-54)
(Click here for explanation of Israel's journey)
( These numbers are found in Num.1-4)
Why did God choose Levi?
The answer is simple. It was God's choice! (1Cor.12:27-29, 1Sam.16:7) God's Words says,"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isa 55:8-10, Rom.9:20 / Isa.29:16, 1Chron.21:13)
1. A background check on Levi
a. Leah his mother
His mother was Leah. (Gen.29:1-34) Leah was the daughter of Laban which he used to deceived Jacob.
Rachel was supposed to be given to Jacob first. (In the natural, this is a weakness in his foundation)
b. A stink in the land
Levi caused a stink in the land with his actions. (Gen.34:25-31) "Jacob said to Simeon and Levi, Ye have
troubled me to make me to stink among the inhabitants of the land, among the Canaanites and the Perizzites:
and I being few in number, they shall gather themselves together against me, and slay me; and I shall be
destroyed, I and my house." (Another mark against Levi)
c. An Instrument of cruelty.
It was prophesied the Simeon and Levi are instruments of cruelty. (Gen.49:5-7) "Simeon and Levi are brethren;
instruments of cruelty are in their habitations.
d. Moses came from the lineage of Levi.
And "there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter of Levi. And the woman conceived,
and bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months."(Exod.2:1-4)
e. Stood with Moses
Levi joined themselves with Moses against the sin in Israel, even though part of it. (Exod.32:25)
f. Appointed by God
Levi was appointed by God over the Tabernacle. (Num.1:47-54) "But thou shalt appoint the Levites over the
tabernacle of testimony, and over all the vessels thereof, and over all things that belong to it: they shall bear the
tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof; and they shall minister unto it, and shall encamp round about the
tabernacle."
g. Levi was taken instead of the firstborn. (Num.3:11-13)
2. There is nothing in the background check of Levi that qualifies him
It was God that called and qualified Levi to maintain the House / sanctuary of God, (Num.1:47-54) to teach, guard,
protection, supervised the copying of the Word of God. (1Peter.2:5-9, Rev.1:6; 5:10, 2Tim.2:15; 4:2, Deut.17:8;
24:8; 31:9-13, 2Chron.15:3; 34:15, Neh.8:2)
a. The same is true today!
God has "set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. (1Cor.12:18-19) God has
called us out and made us "kingdom of priests" (Exod.19:1-6, 1Peter.2:5 -9) "as it hath pleased Him." God is
no respecter of persons. "For there is no respect of persons with God." (Rom 2:11-12) "But if ye have respect
to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors." (James.2:1, 9-10, Jude.1:16,
Col.3:25, Prov.24:23)
b. The example of Moses
Moses was God's choice because he was of the lineage of Levi, who was "set" by God to minister unto Him
in the Tabernacle. It was not because he was educated in the ways of Egypt, even though Moses was. (Acts
7:21-22.) In fact, Moses had to go through a "desert experience" to remove his dependance on the wisdom of
this world. Hebrews says,"By faith Moses, when he was come to years...
(1) Refused his Egyptian (worldly) status
(a) Refused his social standing
Refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; (Acts 7:21-22) who "took him up, and nourished
him for her own son. (Acts 7:21-22, Exod.2-4)
(b) Refused the wisdom of (natural) man
And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.
(Acts 7:21-22) When Moses returned from the desert he was "slow of speech and slow of tongue."
He said, "I am not eloquent." (Exod.4:10)
(2) Chose the reproach of Christ
Choosing "rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Esteeming the reproach of Christ (1Cor.1"19-29; 2:1-14) greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he
had respect unto the recompence of the reward." (Heb.11:24-27)
c. The example of David
(1) Samuel didn't pick David at first
Even the prophet Samuel was taken in by David's older brother's. "When they were come, that he (Samuel)
looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the Lord's anointed is before him. But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not
on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man
seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." (1Sam.16:6-7) David
was not a warrior, just a "youth" and inexperienced. (1Sam.17:13)
(2) Saul didn't think David could minister ("thou art not able")
Saul which was the "fruit" (Matt.7:15-20) of the "Church in the Wilderness" (Acts.7:38, 1Cor.10:1-11, Rom.15:4)
wanting to be "like...all the nations" (1Sam.8:5) that they had should have defeated and (Judges.2:3)
Note: The Priesthood was replaced by the philosophy of man (185 AD? - Saul) as the Church declined
towards the "dark ages." Some today try to be like David out of respect "put an helmet of brass upon his
head"..."armed" themselves with "a coat of mail." (the philosophies and doctrines of men / Seminaries / Bible
Colleges - Col.2:7-8) They "girded" the sword of Saul (degree's, diploma's etc.) and "assayed to go" out and
lead God's people in the "wrestle...against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness
of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Philistines) (Eph 6:12-13)
When all is said and done, the result will be be the the same of David. He said to Saul (the philosophies
and doctrines of men / wisdom of men / Seminaries / Bible Colleges - Col.2:7-8) "I cannot go with these;
for I have not proved them. And David put them off him." (1Sam.17:38-40)
Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield:
but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast
defied. (1Sam.17:45-46) David was victorious!
(3) The Philistines didn't think David could minister
The "Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed
David by his gods." (1Sam.17:43-44) David would have been defeated wearing Saul's Armour, (i.e. the
philosophy and doctrines of men) which evident in the Church world today!
d. The example of the apostles
(1) One was a Tax Collector
After "these things he (Jesus) went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, (Matthew - Matt.9:9, Mark.2:14)
sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
(Luke 5:27) Matthew was not selected as an apostle because of his ability to collect taxes. In fact the giving
of money in the Kingdom of God economy is a "cheerfully" and "voluntary / freewill"
(2) Some were fishermen
Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting
a net into the sea: for they were fishers." Matt 4:18-19, Acts.4:13)
(3) One was a doctor
The apostle spoke of "Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you." (Col.4:13-15) Luke was
a Gentile. (Easton Bible Dictionary)
(4) A Pharisee of Pharisee's
Paul says, "Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath
whereof he I might trust in the flesh, I more: Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of
Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee." (Phil 3:4-5) However this was but
"dung" as far as the Kingdom of God was concerned. Look at the parallel between Moses and Paul!
(a) Refused his social standing
Refused to be called a Pharisee. It's all "dung. (Phil.3:1-5) "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but
ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?" (1Cor.3:5)
(b) Refused the wisdom of (natural) man
Moses and Paul were learned in all the wisdom of this world, (Phil.3:1-15) mighty in words and in deeds.
(Acts 7:21-22) When Moses and Paul returned from the desert (Gal.1:17) they were "slow of speech and
slow of tongue." (1Cor.2:4) They both said they were "not eloquent." (Exod.4:10) Moses provided the
blueprint and Paul interpreted the blueprint.
(c) Chose the reproach of Christ
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the
power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the
understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world?
hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by
wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe."
(1Cor.1:18-21)
e. It is the Spirit of that qualifies you to minister as a priest
For "ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, (there are
some but) not many noble, (however, there are some) are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the
world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are
mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which
are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh (anything that is my abilities) should glory in his
presence." (1Cor.1:26-29) This is the key!
The Priests the sons of Levi / teach the Word of God
Moses "wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel. And Moses commanded them, saying, At the end of every seven years, in the solemnity of the year of release, in the feast of tabernacles, When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall choose, thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing. Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy stranger that is within thy gates, that they may hear, and that they may learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law." (Deut 31:9-13)
1. As Priests we are to "go teach all nations."
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway,
even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matt 28:19-20)
a. Teaching requires preparation!
(1) As priest we need to study / "rightly divide' the Word of God
Study (do (give) diligence, be diligent), endeavor, labour, study. Show yourself approved unto God, a
workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2Tim.2:15)
(2) As priests we need to be separated unto God
Sanctify "the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready (as a Priest) always to give an answer to every man
that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear" (1Peter.3:15)
b. What did Jesus command us to do as a "royal priesthood?"
Jesus commanded all through the Gospels, (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) did not stop commanding after
the Gospels. (John.16:12-15, 1Cor.2:1-14) He continued through the Book of Acts and the Epistles. (Gal.1:11-12)
In fact Jesus is giving commands throughout the whole Bible. He is the "Word made flesh!' (John.1:1-14)
2. The Hebrews Christians should have been "teaching Priests"
"For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, (Deut.31:9-11, 2Chron.15:3, 1Peter.2:5,9) ye have need that one
teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk,
and not of strong meat." (Heb 5:12-13) This was written to the Hebrew Christians, not just to the "teachers"
(Eph.4:11) that God had set (1Cor.12:18, 28) amongst them.
a. There is the gift of a "teacher" that God has set in the Church.
However this (Eph.4:11-16) does not release every member of the Body of Christ from fulfilling their
responsibility of teaching all nations. (Matt.28:19)
(1) When Jesus ascended
He "gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors
and teachers." (Eph 4:11-12)
(2) Are all apostles?
Are all prophets? are all (Eph.4:11) teachers? are all workers of miracles? (1 Cor 12:29-30) "Now there
were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon" (Acts 13:1)
(3) The Eph.4:11 "teacher" is given
"For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man,
unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." (Eph.4:12-14, 1Cor.13:9-12) This ministry to the
Church is universal (world wide) as foreshadowed by the Church in the wilderness. (Num.10:1-10)
The Church in the wilderness is a shadow / model of the Universal Church today
(Click here for explanation of chart below)
b. Every member of the Body of Christ
Every saint has the responsibility to teach (i.e. "be ready always to give an answer to [teach] every man that
asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear"- 1Peter.3:15) However, not all of us
have the responsibility to teach the entire Church world wide. It is similar to the prophetic ministry. "All may
prophecy," but not all are prophets. (1Cor.14:5, 31-32) . (Review: The Feast of Trumpets)
(1) Priests to teach
The sons of Levi were to teach. (Deut.17:18; 24:8; 31:9-13,2Chron.15:3; 34:15, Mal.2:7)
(2) Responsibility
The time "ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you." (Heb.5:12)
c. Then there are those that are false teachers.
Timothy was told to watch for those desiring to be "teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say,
nor whereof they affirm." (1Tim.1:7-8, 2Peter.2:1) "For the "time will come when they will not endure sound
doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall
turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." (2Tim.4:3-5)
3. Timothy was told to teach, so they would teach others
Timothy was told,"the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful
men, who shall be able to teach others also." (2Tim. 2:2)
a. Not just Bible School
Many today still see this as instruction to Pastors only, and not to the congregation. God's original intent is
that all the Church is to do "the work of the ministry." (Eph.4:12, 1Peter.2:9)
b. All Israel were to be a priesthood!
In the blueprint the "Church in the wilderness" (Acts.7:38) was called out to be "kingdom of priests." (Exod.19:6)
Levi was chosen (Num.1:47-54) because they refused their call. (Heb.12:19-21)
Levi was not chosen because he was a scholar
There is no record of Levi being a "scholar." A learned person, or specialists in a given branch of knowledge of the Egypt culture. There is no record of him being "a classical scholar." One who attended a school or studies with an Egyptian teacher. In fact both Moses and Paul spent years in the desert to come to the place where they counted all of man's wisdom "but loss." Why then do we insist on being qualified by man in order to have a legitimate ministry to lead God's people?
1. Look at the parallels of Moses and Paul
Moses was "learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds." (Acts.7:22) Paul
said, "Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust
in the flesh, I more: Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the
Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; Concerning zeal,
persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the 
law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, those I counted
loss for Christ." (Phil 3:4-8)
a. Both called by God
Moses and Paul were both Called of God. (Exod.4:1-17,
Gal.1:11-12, Acts.9)
b. Both were rejected by the brethren
Both were not accepted by their brethren. (Exod.2-4,
Acts.9:1-22)
c. Both spent time in the desert
They both spent time in the desert to purge themselves from
man's wisdom. Moses came back "slow of speech."
(Exod.4:10, Acts.7:22) Paul says, "my speech and my
preaching was not with enticing word's of man's wisdom."
(1Cor.2:4-14)
d. Both rejected man's wisdom
Paul considered his worldly education but "dung." (Phil.3:1-8) Moses "esteemed the reproach of Christ greater
riches than the treasures of Egypt. (Heb.11:26, Acts.7:22) Moses received the blueprint (type, shadow, model)
Paul (the wise master builder / architect) received the revelation to interpret. (i.e. read the blueprint) 1Cor.3:10-15
Note: This study is not saying that education and degrees are not necessary. In this world they are
necessary for success and prosperity. However in the Kingdom of God they are but "dung" (Phil.3:8) and are
"enmity (hostile) against God." (Rom.8:4-8)
2. Jesus - "having never learned letters"
The "Jews marveled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned? Jesus answered them, and said,
My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me." (John 7:15-17)
3. Peter and John
Now "when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men,
they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13-14)
The Priests were responsible to offer the sacrifices
In the Old Testament "ensample"(type, shadow, figure) "the priests, Aaron's sons. shall bring the blood and sprinkle the blood..."(Lev.1:5, 7, 11; 2:2, 9; 3:2, 8; 4:7)
1. The pattern continues in it's fulfillment today
The priesthood. (1Peter.2:5-9) i.e. those that are "born again" into the family of God have the responsibility
(stewardship) to offer "spiritual sacrifices."
.
2. There were five offerings that the sons of Levi offered.
As a "royal priesthood " today, (1Peter.2:5-9, Rev.1:6; 5:10) the Church is to offer these same offerings in their
reality. (completion, fulfillment)
a. The Sin Offering.
The "Sin Offering" provided atonement for the sin of the priest, for the congregation, for the ruler and for the
people. (Lev.9:1-2, Num.6:11; 8:5-8, Deut.12:1-16, Josh.22:1-29, Ezra.8:35, Neh.10:33, Ezk.45:17)
b. The Trespass Offering
Under the Old Testament the Sin Offering covered their sin before God. The Trespass Offering covered the
trespasses or faults of "the Church in the wilderness." These were "trespasses" against God and each other.
(Acts.7:38, Lev.6:2-7, Gen.31:36-42; 50:17, Lev.14:1-28; 19;20-22; 22:10-16; 26:1-40, Josh.7:1; 22:11-20,
1Sam.6:3)
c. The Burnt Offering
Under the Old Testament (Covenant) the "Burnt Offering" is offered "of his own voluntary will" (Lev.1:9) This
is one of the differences between the Sin Offering, and Trespass Offering which were compulsory. Another
difference is in how this "Burnt Offering" was offered. It was offered in consecration and separation. (Num.6:13)
re-dedication, being set apart, (Josh.18:31) and humbly asking counsel from God. (Judges.20:26) David, who
was "a man after God's own heart" (Acts.13:22) offered the Burnt Offering when the Ark (i.e. God's presence
with them. Exod.25:8-22) was returned. (1Sam.6:15; 10:8; 13:12, 2Sam.6:17, 1Chron.6:1) Solomon dedicated
the Temple with the Burnt Offering. (2Sam.24:24)
d. The Meal (Food) Offering
Under the Old Covenant there was no blood sacrifice with this offering. (Lev.2:1-2) It has nothing to do
with atonement for sin, our trespasses or our consecration unto the Lord. (Lev.2:1-2; 9:4,17; 14:10, 20, 31.
Lev.25:6, Num.6:13-21, 1Kings8:4, Neh.10:33, Joel.2:14, Mal.3:10) It was the "fruit of the ground," it was a
voluntary (Num.29:39) "Meat" (i.e. food) offering made of fine flour. Even though it was not a blood
sacrifice, it had to be offered on the Brazen Altar (Lev.2:2) and totally consumed with fire for a sweetsmelling
savor, (Lev.2:2) It should also be noted that, there was no leaven allowed in this offering. (Lev.2:11)
e. The Peace Offering
This offering was made through blood sacrifice upon the altar, (Lev.3:2-3) for a sweet savor, (Lev.3:5) but
not for atonement.1 This is a difference between the Sin, Trespass and Burnt
Offerings, they did make
atonement. The Meal offering was different
again, it had no blood sacrifice). Under the Old Covenant the
"Peace
Offering" was a "freewill" offering of thanksgiving. (Ezekiel.46:12,
Lev.19:5; 22:21-29, Num.4:13-21,
Judges.20:26, 1Sam.11:15, 1Kings.8:63,
1Chron.16:1-2, 2 Chron.30:22; 33:16, Amos.5:22) The Hebrew word
for "peace" is requital, i.e. a voluntary sacrifice in thanks. Note: (Lev.17:15) It was to be the best with no
blemishes. (Lev.22:21-25) Failure to give the best, is robbing God. (Mal.1:8; 3:8
(Click here for fully explanation of each offering)
3. There was an order for these offerings
The priest's were responsible for offering these offerings in the correct order. (1Cor.14:40) If these offerings were out
of order, they will be rejected as Cain's was. (Gen.4:1-4, 1John.3:12-16, Jude.1:11)
a. The Compulsory Offerings
(1) The Sin Offering. (Atonement for our Sin)
(2) The Trespass Offering (Our faults towards God and each other after salvation)
(Click here for fully explanation of each offering)
b. The voluntary (free will) Offerings
(1) The Burnt Offering. (Our Consecration and separation after salvation)
(2) The Meal (Food) Offering. (Our good works / giving of materials things)
(3) The Peace Offering. (Our worship and thanksgiving)
(Click here for fully explanation of each offering)
c. Cain offered a correct offering but...
Cain offered the "fruit of the ground," (the voluntary meal /meat / food / grain offering) and ignored the
compulsory the Sin Offering. (The "firstlings" (lamb) of the flock) Watch out! for the Cain doctrine in these last
days. (Jude.1:5-11) The first fight was over religion, (Gen.4:1-4) so will the last fight. (2Thes.2:3-11, Rev.13:4;
16:12-16)
(1) The world's counterfeit five offerings
This world has a counterfeit Sin Offering. (Goodness towards humanity and the environment) A counterfeit
Trespass Offering. (Appeasing) A counterfeit Burnt Offering. (Consecrating themselves to causes). A
counterfeit Meal Offering, (announcing their giving and good works) and a counterfeit Peace Offering.
(Praising the gods of silver and gold)
(2) Applying the pattern:
You can consecrate yourself to God, (Burnt Offering) give your tithe (Meal Offering) and worship with great
enthusiasm, (Peace Offering) but if you ignore (disregard) Christ's sinless blood (The Sin Offering) and have
unforgiveness towards another (Trespass Offering) you offering rejected.
The priests were responsible to sacrifice on the only Altar
Today, most think of "the altar" as being a bench in the front of the Church. However, the "Most High dwelleth
not in Temples made with hands."(Acts.7:47-48) There is no sacred property in the New Testament. We are the sacred property, the "holy Temple."(Eph.2:20-22, 1Peter.2:5) We are the ground.(2Cor.4:7) The "altar" that God recognizes under the New Covenant (Testament) is the Lord Jesus Christ. (Heb.13:10) The altar was the only place of sacrifice. (Lev.17:1-11, 1Peter.1:18-20) The altar was the only place where blood was shed to provide atonement. (Lev.17:1-11, Exod.30:9, John.14:6, 1Tim.2:5) Man-made "altar's" in the front of the Church could never do this! Even in the Tabernacle model, God said that He had "no pleasure" in the Brazen Altar because it could never take away sin.(Heb.10:1-10)
(Click here for explanation of Tabernacle structure below)
1. Every offering (sacrifice) must be placed on the only true Altar
Peter wrote that the Church (the Body of Christ) "as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,
to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." (The Altar) (1Peter.2:5-6)
a. All five offerings must be placed on the true Altar
The Sin Offering, (Atonement for your Sin) the Trespass Offering, (Your faults towards God and each other
after salvation) the Burnt Offering, (Your Consecration and separation after salvation) the Meal (Meat, Grain)
Offering, (Your good works / giving of materials things) and the Peace Offering. (Your worship and thanksgiving)
These offerings are ONLY "acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." (The Altar) (1Peter.2:5-6)
(Click here for fully explanation of each offering)
b. This is our responsibility as stewards of God's Word.
How is our stewardship? The Spirit has placed us as "a house-distributor (i.e. manager), or overseer"3 over the
Word of God. Will our reward be "Well done, thou good and faithful servant," (Matt.25:14-30, Note:v.21) or are
we being a "slothful" with your responsibilities as a priest?
c. Are our sacrifices lame, blemished?
"And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings (or any of the offerings) unto the Lord to accomplish
his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish
therein.
(1) No defective offerings!
Blind, or broken, or maimed, or having a wen, or scurvy, or scabbed, ye shall not offer these unto the Lord,
nor make an offering by fire of them upon the altar unto the Lord." (Lev 22:21-23) Review: Offerings, Page.1
for the reality of each of these "blemishes."
(2) Note: The Prophet Malachi
During the time of the Prophet Malachi, the priesthood had this problem. (Mal.3:8; 1:6-14) They were offering
the "left-overs." They were offering sacrifice, but they were not being "good and faithful servants."
There is no place for any "blemish" in our Sin Offering, (Atonement for our Sin) our Trespass Offering,
(Our faults towards God and each other after salvation) our Burnt Offering, (Our Consecration and separation
after salvation) our Meal (Meat, Grain) Offering (Our good works / giving of materials things) and our Peace
Offering. (Our worship and thanksgiving) If there is a "blemish" we are robbing God! (Mal.3:8)
(Click here for fully explanation of each offering)
d. Do your sacrifices have that "sweet smelling savor?"
The Lord smelled a sweet savour; (of Noah's sacrifice) and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the
ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again
smite any more every thing living, as I have done." (Gen 8:21-22)
(1) The Sweet Savour (Savor)
The "sweet savour" made the offering acceptable. (Lev.1:9; 2:2, 9, 12)
(2) That "sweet savour" is Christ.
God's Word says, "walk in love, (1Cor.13:1-8) as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an
offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. (Eph 5:2-3, Matt.5:17-19, Heb.10:1)
(3) The Philippians offering was a "odor of a sweet smell"
The offering (i.e. The meal / Grain Offering) from the Philippians was a "odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice
acceptable, well-pleasing to God." (Phil 4:18-19) As a priesthood the preeminence of Christ (Col.1:18) must
be in our offering / sacrifice. This makes us acceptable to God! Not as the "hypocrites do in the synagogues
and in the streets, that the may have glory of men." (Blemish!) Matt.6:1-4
The Priesthood of the last day Church
Ezekiel prophesied that "the priests the Levities, the sons of Zadok, that kept the charge of my sanctuary when the children of Israel went astray from me, they shall come near to me to minister unto me, and they shall stand before me to offer unto me the fat and the blood, saith the Lord God: They shall enter into my sanctuary, (the last day Church) and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge." (Ezek 44:15-16)
1. The apostle Peter said Ezekiel was speaking to us
Peter wrote, that the prophets "have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should
come unto you: Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify when it
(the Spirit of Christ) testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ. (i.e. going to the Cross and paying the price for
our sin. And the glory (the restoration Eze.43:4; 44:4, 15-16) that should follow. (1Peter.1:10-13, Acts.3:19-24) Unto
whom (Ezekiel) it was revealed, that not unto themselves but unto us they did minister the things, which are now
reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven;
which things the angels desire to look into. (1Peter.1:10-13, Matt.13:10-17, Matt.5:17-19, Rom.16:25-26, Acts.24:14)
(Review: Phase 6 (1Peter.1:10-13)
(Click here for explanation of how the Prophets are speaking to us)
"Zadok" Continued on page.2
Notes.
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1. priest (from Greek presbyteros: “elder”), in some Christian churches, an officer or minister who is intermediate between a bishop and a deacon. A priesthood developed gradually in the early Christian church as firstbishops and then elders, or “presbyters,” began to exercise certain priestly functions, mainly inconnection with celebration of the Eucharist. By the end of the 2nd century, the church's bishops were called priests (Latin: sacerdos). Although the priestly office was vested primarily in the bishop, a presbyter shared in his priestly functions and, in hisabsence, could exercise certain of them as his delegate. With thespread of Christianity and the establishment of parish churches, the presbyter, or parish priest, adopted more of the bishop's functions and became the principal celebrant of the Eucharist. In this capacity, as well as by hearing confession and granting absolution, the priest eventually assumed the role of the church's chief representative of God to the people. The development of eucharistic theology resulted in a further emphasis of the priest's supernatural powers and qualities. (Britannica) During the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, the Reformers rejected the Roman Catholic doctrine of the sacrifice of the mass and the conception of the priesthood that went with it. The priesthood of all Christians was emphasized. Consequently, ministers were substituted for priests in Protestant churches. The Church of England Reformers retained the title priest in The Book of Common Prayer, in order to distinguish priests, who can celebrate Holy Communion, from deacons, who are not entitled to do so. Ministers were generally called clergymen until the 19th century, when the Roman Catholic heritage of the Church of England was emphasized and priest again became the common term.
