WHO SHALL ASCEND THE MOUNTAIN
OF THE LORD?
A biblical theology of the book of Leviticus
By L. Michael Morales
Apollos / IVP. 349 pages. £16.99
ISBN 978 1 783 593 682
One of the great problems with so many Christian books being published these days is that there are some which sneak under the radar at en which we wish we had picked up on earlier.*
This magnificent book published in 2015 is a case in point! It comes from Michael Morales, Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
I have been overwhelmed with excitement about Leviticus. That ‘dreaded’ book which is the stumbling block for many as they try to read through the Bible comes alive under the pen of Michael Morales in a spectacular way. Leviticus rarely appears on a preaching programme, but in the Foreword Don Carson writes that he expects many to be inspired to preach sermon series on Leviticus once they have read this book. I think that is highly likely!
Pentateuch context
One of the keys to the book’s success is that it very carefully sets Leviticus in the context of the whole Pentateuch. So even before we get to Leviticus there are superb chapters, full of insight, on Genesis and Exodus. The theological theme of Leviticus is full of grace. It is driven by the LORD’s desire that a way is opened ‘for humanity to dwell in the divine Presence’. Indeed the tabernacle arrangement that the light from the lamp-stand shines upon the 12 loaves of shewbread portrays visually God’s intention that his people should live continually in his presence and enjoy the blessing mediated by his priests. The tabernacle faces east by way of welcoming home those who through their sin, like Cain, have departed ‘east of Eden’.
Pointing to Christ
The book divides Leviticus itself into three sections. Chapters 1-10 concern approach to God – here the system of sacrifices is explained clearly and helpfully. Chapters 11-16 concern the cleansing of God’s house, with the high point of the Day of Atonement. Chapters 17-27 are about meeting with God in the house of God. We are then taken seamlessly and gloriously into the New Testament – to Christ, the Son of God, priest and sacrifice now ascended for us into the very presence of God, so that we might know his presence today. If you are looking for theological stimulation and heart-warming truth rooted deeply in Scripture, this is currently one of the top volumes to read.
