Bible Commentaries
Leviticus 5

Verse 1

CONTENTS

In continuation of the same subject, of ordinances, this Chapter relates the rite concerning the trespass-offering. The cases are particularized to which this religious ordinance had reference, and the offering itself stated; whether of a lamb, or kid; or in poorer circumstances, two; or if very poor, an omer of flour.

Leviticus 5:1

It were very much to be wished, that this law was paid attention to among those who profess themselves to be Christians, both in discountenancing idle and profane oaths, and putting a check to false swearing. Proverbs 29:24 . It should seem, that it was by virtue of this law, the high priest adjured the LORD JESUS. Matthew 26:63 .

Verses 2-3

On the subject of unclean things, uniformly through all the law, we may I think, without violence, consider the figure as referring to our nature, in an unrenewed state. Acts 10:14-15 .

Verses 4-5

Rash vows are of this kind. Ecclesiastes 5:6 .

Verse 6

Observe, the atonement is made by the priest; that is, as typical of CHRIST. Isaiah 53:10 .

Verse 7

This was a merciful provision for the poor, in their times of offending. The Virgin Mary's offering upon another occasion, was in this humble way. Luke 2:24 .

Verse 8

'Was not this prohibition of not dividing the offering, an emblem of the offering for sin, of a complete Saviour? John 19:36 .

Verses 9-10

Similar observations occur here as in the former chapter on offerings, Leviticus 4:6-7 .

Verses 11-13

Observe the divine condescension to the poor sinner; nothing costly was to be in his offering. The poor as well as the rich are equally interested in the salvation of the gospel. Matthew 11:5 .

Verses 14-15

Observe the magnitude of sin, even the sin of ignorance, riseth proportion, according to the sanctity of the person offended. 1 Samuel 2:25 .

Verses 16-19

The sacrifice is always marked to be without blemish, thereby evidently pointing to him, who is a lamb without blemish and without spot. 1 Peter 1:19 .

Verse 19

REFLECTIONS

SEE Reader! how ruined a state our whole nature is considered in by reason of sin. Oh! what a mass of uncleanness must man as man appear in before GOD! Truly as the prophet hath marked it, from the sole of the foot even unto the head, there is no soundness in it, but wounds, and bruises, and putrefying sores!

Look up, my soul, and behold the gracious provision the covenant of redemption hath made for sins of all descriptions both of omission and commission; both of willful and unintentional guilt. Blessed GOD! how are we surrounded with mercies in the blood and righteousness of thy dear SON. Let me never lose sight of that sweet scripture, nor want faith to depend upon the precious record; all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men. Teach me, HOLY SPIRIT of all truth, to depend upon this saving truth, and may my mind be constantly directed into a full enjoyment of the FATHER'S love, the Saviour's merits, and thy pardoning grace, that my heart may rejoice, and my joy no man take from me.