The Levitical Covenant: From Shadow to Substance in Christ

These are the commandments which Yahweh commanded Moses for the children of Israel. The moral and ceremonial commandments bear comparison with the gospel law. Many commandments are moral and of perpetual obligation; others are ceremonial and peculiar to the Jewish economy, yet possess spiritual significance instructive to us who possess the key unlocking their mysteries. For unto us by these institutions the gospel is preached, as well as unto them (Hebrews 4:2).

We may bless Elohim that we are not come to Mount Sinai. First, we are not under the dark shadows of the law, but enjoy the clear light of the gospel, which shows us Christ the end of the law for righteousness (Romans 10:4). The doctrine of our reconciliation to God by a Mediator is not clouded with the smoke of burning sacrifices, but cleared by the knowledge of Christ crucified. Second, we are not under the heavy yoke of the law and its carnal ordinances (ta sarkika, fleshly ordinances), imposed till the time of reformation—a yoke neither Israel nor their fathers could bear (Acts 15:10).

Instead, we worship under the sweet and easy institutions of the gospel, which pronounces true worshippers those who worship the Father in pneuma kai aletheia (spirit and truth) by Christ alone, our Priest, Temple, Altar, and Sacrifice. Having boldness to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, worshipping God with cheerfulness and humble confidence.