Holy Cross Episcopal Church

Bible 101 - Leviticus / Hebrews - Leviticus Outline

Provided by Phyllis Gilbert


This is the liturgical book God gave Moses, but it goes beyond worship to include daily life. The book is in "first person God" meaning it's God's voice that we hear speaking the commands and regulations. The NIV splits the book into two sections, and those headings follow:

Part 1: Worshiping a Holy God

Chapters 1-7
The five great sacrifices are described (what they are, how they are to be offered and when) along with their purposes.

Chapters 8-10
The priesthood is established with the consecration of Aaron and his sons.

Chapters 11-15
Daily life: what is ceremonially clean or unclean; what to do about leprosy (a type of sin), and its effects not only on people, but on fabric, the house and its furnishings.

Chapter 16-17
Yom Kippur: The Day of Atonement; further instructions for the altar.

Part 2: Living a Holy Life

Chapters 18-22
More regulations for daily life

Chapter 23
Sabbath observance and three great festivals

Chapters 24-27
Laws of sanctification and consequences of disobedience

God's purpose in this book is to create (1) the means by which sin is covered or atoned for, and (2) the regulations by which his people are set apart - made holy and live as holy people, different from their neighbors, and from any other nation on earth.