Chapter 21
Laws concerning the priests.
—As these priests were types of Christ, so all ministers must be followers of him, that their
example may teach others to imitate the Saviour. Without blemish, and separate from sinners, He
executed his priestly office on earth. What manner of persons then should his ministers be! But all
are, if Christians, spiritual priests; the minister especially is called to set a good example, that the
people may follow it. Our bodily infirmities, blessed be God, cannot now shut us out from his
service, from these privileges, or from his heavenly glory. Many a healthful, beautiful soul is lodged
in a feeble, deformed body. And those who may not be suited for the work of the ministry, may
serve God with comfort in other duties in his church.
Chapter 22
Laws concerning the priests and sacrifices.
—In this chapter we have divers laws concerning the priests and sacrifices, all for preserving
the honour of the sanctuary. Let us recollect with gratitude that our great High Priest cannot be
hindered by any thing from the discharge of his office. Let us also remember, that the Lord requires
us to reverence his name, his truths, his ordinances, and commandments. Let us beware of hypocrisy,
and examine ourselves concerning our sinful defilements, seeking to be purified from them in the
blood of Christ, and by his sanctifying Spirit. Whoever attempts to expiate his own sin, or draws
near in the pride of self-righteousness, puts as great an affront on Christ, as he who comes to the
Lord's table from the gratification of sinful lusts. Nor can the minister who loves the souls of the
people, suffer them to continue in this dangerous delusion. He must call upon them, not only to
repent of their sins, and forsake them; but to put their whole trust in the atonement of Christ, by
faith in his name, for pardon and acceptance with God; thus only will the Lord make them holy,
as his own people.
Chapter 23
Chapter Outline
The feasts of the Lord, The Sabbath. (1–3)
The Passover, The offering of first-fruits. (4–14)
The feast of Pentecost. (15–22)
The feast of Trumpets, The day of (23–32)
atonement.