"The Priestly Consecration and Living Sacrifices: A Biblical Parallel"

CI Schofield’s observation highlights that the consecration of the priests in the Old Testament was an act performed by another—specifically, Moses acting on behalf of God. The priests themselves did not consecrate themselves; instead, they submitted to the process ordained by God. This reinforces the idea that holiness and consecration are imparted by God rather than achieved through human effort alone.

This concept parallels the appeal in Romans 12:1, where believers are urged to present their bodies as living sacrifices. This verse suggests that followers of Christ are to willingly offer themselves to God, dedicating their lives to His service in a way that is both holy and pleasing to Him. It emphasizes an act of surrender and devotion, marking a shift from the ritual sacrifices of the Old Testament to a personal, spiritual commitment in the New Testament.

Presenting oneself as a “living sacrifice” reflects ongoing dedication—a continual process of seeking to align one’s life with God’s will. It’s both a response to God’s mercies and a reasonable act of worship, acknowledging God’s transformative work in the believer’s life through Jesus Christ. This builds on the foundation laid in Levitical consecration but extends it into a personal call for all believers to live a life set apart for God.