Exodus 29: Consecration and Purification of Priests

I. Introduction:  The theological study of Exodus 29 presents a profound spiritual perspective into the ancient rituals of consecration of the priests and the altar, painting a symbolic picture of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. The themes of purification, atonement, and consecration resonate deeply with the principles of forgiveness, devotion, and submission to God’s will.

II. Consecration and Purification (Exodus 29:1-9)

The chapter begins with God instructing Moses on the consecration of Aaron and his sons (Exodus 29:1). This process included ritual washing, donning sacred garments, anointing with oil, and animal sacrifices (Exodus 29:4-9). These acts of purification symbolize the cleansing and sanctification necessary for serving God, as reflected in 1 Peter 2:9, where believers are described as a “royal priesthood.”

III. Atonement through Sacrifice (Exodus 29:10-14)

God commanded that a bull be sacrificed as a sin offering for Aaron and his sons (Exodus 29:10-14). Its blood was used to purify the altar, making it holy. This act of atonement foreshadows Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross (Hebrews 9:22), His blood making atonement for the sins of humanity.

IV. Consecration through Blood (Exodus 29:15-21)

Next, a ram was sacrificed, and its blood was sprinkled on Aaron and his sons (Exodus 29:15-21). This act of consecration through blood is symbolic of the covenant established by Jesus Christ through His blood (Matthew 26:28), signifying the believers’ consecration to God.

V. Communion with God (Exodus 29:22-28)

The consecration process further included a peace offering (Exodus 29:22-28), depicting the fellowship and communion with God. This is reminiscent of the communion that believers partake in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:24-26).

VI. Divine Provision (Exodus 29:29-30)

God provided for Aaron and his sons, promising to meet their needs (Exodus 29:29-30). This parallels God’s promise of provision for those who serve Him faithfully (Matthew 6:33).

VII. Continual Sacrifice (Exodus 29:38-46)

God commanded that continual sacrifices be offered morning and evening (Exodus 29:38-42). This represents our continual commitment and submission to God, mirroring Paul’s admonition in Romans 12:1 to present ourselves as living sacrifices.

VIII. God’s Presence with His People (Exodus 29:45-46)

God promises His presence among the Israelites (Exodus 29:45-46), prefiguring Christ’s promise to be with His followers always (Matthew 28:20).

IX. Conclusion: Exodus 29 unveils the rich spiritual depth of God’s redemptive plan, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Christ for humanity’s salvation. The rituals of consecration, atonement, and continual sacrifice illuminated the path towards closeness with God, providing a blueprint for the believers’ journey towards sanctification. Furthermore, the promises of divine provision and His abiding presence echo the New Testament teachings, reassuring us of God’s enduring love and grace.