The offerings, so comprehensively detailed for us in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Leviticus, have had an enduring appeal to the people of God and have induced many to spend hours of study on this most instructive topic that took up so much time in the daily lives and history of God’s ancient people. Their importance cannot be over-emphasised and God gave very specific instructions as to the various offerings and sacrifices so that nothing was left to the imaginations of men.

Their primary appeal lies in the fact that they were typical of Christ and much precious devotional ministry has been given on the many facets of Christ portrayed in these various offerings. They advertised the greatness of the One Who would ultimately offer up the “one sacrifice for sins for ever …” Heb.10.12, Whose precious blood would finally and forever satiate the righteous requirements of a holy God and bring untold blessings within the reach of guilty sinners.

They also served as constant reminders to God’s people that He was inflexibly holy, that He would not tolerate sin; God’s holiness demanded death and communion with God could only be enjoyed when sin was righteously dealt with, and atonement made, thus imparting to the offerer a fitness to worship and serve God.

The offerings were prospective and every bleating sheep and lowing ox called for the coming of the only One Who could effectively deal with the problem of sin and set the guilty free. The undeniable commentary of Hebrews chapter 10 reminds us: “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins” Heb.10.4; “But this man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins, for ever sat down on the right hand of God” Heb.10.12. His precious blood alone “cleanseth us from all sin” 1Jn.1.7.

Sin-atoning sacrifice,

Thou art precious in mine eyes;

Thou alone my rest shall be,

Now and through eternity.

    (H. Grattan Guinness)

We acknowledge, with appreciation, the contribution made by the authors of this tenth book in the ‘Glory’ series, a work which reflects many hours of diligent study and involves many sacrifices, yet is undertaken cheerfully. It is our prayer that the contents will not only give us a more perfect understanding of the offerings but will elevate our thoughts of Christ and promote in each of us a deeper appreciation of His Person and work.

Roy Reynolds, N. Ireland, April 2018