Old Testament reading: Leviticus 7-8
Leviticus 7 illustrates how the offerings of the people also provided for the physical needs of the priesthood. The blood offerings for sin were not to be given to the priests for food, for such offerings were wholly separated unto the Lord (6:30). However, chapter 7 allows for the peace offering to be given to the priests. In like fashion, the offering of the Christian is also to be used to support those who serve those who serve today: “Those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel,” and, “Let him who is taught share with him who teaches in all things” (Gal 6:6). Chapter 8 shows the consecration of Aaron and his sons. We would do well to learn from this example, that not just anyone can serve the Lord, and not in just any way they choose. God has been specific regarding those who may serve him and how it is to be done today.
New Testament reading: John 4-5
Today’s reading continues with the unique nature of Jesus’ ministry in his dealing with the Samaritans. Jesus’ encounter and discourse with the Samaritan woman in chapter 4 was puzzling both to the woman (v 9) as well as Jesus’ own disciples (v 27). Chapter 5 reveals the hardness of heart that prevented people from following Jesus. There were four witnesses to his authority. According to the Law, 2 or 3 witnesses were sufficient to make a case among the Jews. The four witnesses of chapter 5 satisfied the demands and then some. The greatest of these witnesses were the miracles Jesus performed. Who else was doing such works among the people? God had been silent for four centuries (yep, there’s 400 years in that blank page between the Testaments), and the works done by Jesus were sufficient to convince any honest soul of His divine power and authority.
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