‏ Leviticus 27

* The law concerning vows, Of persons and animals. (1-13) Vows

concerning houses and land. (14-25) Devoted things not to be

redeemed. (26-33) Conclusion. (34)

1-13 Zeal for the service of God disposed the Israelites, on

some occasions, to dedicate themselves or their children to the

service of the Lord, in his house for life. Some persons who

thus dedicated themselves might be employed as assistants; in

general they were to be redeemed for a value. It is good to be

zealously affected and liberally disposed for the Lord's

service; but the matter should be well weighed, and prudence

should direct as to what we do; else rash vows and hesitation in

doing them will dishonour God, and trouble our own minds. 14-25 Our houses, lands, cattle, and all our substance, must be

used to the glory of God. It is acceptable to him that a portion

be given to support his worship, and to promote his cause. But

God would not approve such a degree of zeal as ruined a man's

family. 26-33 Things or persons devoted, are distinguished from things

or persons that were only sanctified. Devoted things were most

holy to the Lord, and could neither be taken back nor applied to

other purposes. Whatever productions they had the benefit, God

must be honoured with the tenth of, if it could be applied. Thus

they acknowledge God to be the Owner of their land, the Giver of

its fruits, and themselves to be his tenants, and dependants

upon him. Thus they gave him thanks for the plenty they enjoyed,

and besought his favour in the continuance of it. We are taught

to honour the Lord with our substance. 34 The last verse seems to have reference to this whole book.

Many of the precepts in it are moral, and always binding; others

are ceremonial, and peculiar to the Jewish nation; yet they have

a spiritual meaning, and so teach us; for unto us, by these

institutions, is the gospel preached, as well as unto them, #Heb

4:2|. The doctrine of reconciliation to God by a Mediator, is

not clouded with the smoke of burning sacrifice, but cleared by

the knowledge of Christ and him crucified. We are under the

sweet and easy institutions of the gospel, which pronounces

those true worshippers, who worship the Father in spirit and

truth, by Christ only, and in his name. Yet, let us not think,

because we are not tied to the ceremonial rites and oblations,

that a little care, time, and expense, will serve to honour God

with. Having boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of

Jesus, let us draw near with a true heart, and in full assurance

of faith, worshipping God with the more cheerfulness and humble

confidence, still saying, BLESSED BE GOD FOR JESUS CHRIST.