Justin Houtz

Leviticus 4, Acts 5

DateVersionReading Plan
April 4, 2025ESV (2016)OT/NT Plan 2025 – 2027

Leviticus 4

Observation

The LORD spoke to Moses to speak to the people to provide instruction on what to do in cases of unintentional sin. Animal sacrifices of various kinds were to be made and were different depending on the one who sinned. The specific individuals and groups addressed were 1) the high priest, 2) the whole community, 3) a leader or 4) one of the common people. The required sex of the animal also differed depending on the animal and the person/people for whom it was brought. An offering of a bull did not require a certain sex to be used (whether male or female), but did so in the case of a goat or lamb.

Application

Reading of the sin offerings provides a stark reminder of the egregious nature of sin against our holy God as well as the cost of its atonement. As Paul said in Romans 5:12, “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.” Only by the death by a worthy sacrifice can sin be washed clean. All praise and honor due to our God who sent His Son to be this worthy sacrifice.

Acts 5

Observation

The chapter recounts the sin and death of Ananias and Sapphira, the many signs and wonders performed by the apostles, more believers being added to the LORD, the arrest of the apostles and being freed by angel of the LORD, the apostles’ testimony before the council, Gamaliel’s orders to leave them alone, the apostles being beaten, rejoicing as they left the presence of the council that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name and not ceasing to teach and preach that the Christ is Jesus.

Application

It is remarkable to read that the apostles not only accepted their suffering but rejoiced that they were counted worthy to be treated shamefully on Christ’s behalf. With great honor and inevitable opposition do we represent our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We should not be surprised when our faith collides with the things of this world as friendship with the world is enmity with God. May we likewise embrace our calling with steadfast faith and humility, celebrating our being counted as worthy to suffer for His great name.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that You by Your Son our sins are atoned and we are washed clean. May Your children never forget the price You paid for our sin and the redemption of Your children. Lord Jesus, thank You that You have chosen me to suffer dishonor for Your name.

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