Drawing Near to God: The Meaning of Sacrifice in This Week's Torah Reading (Leviticus 1–5)

What does it really mean to draw near to God? In this week’s Torah portion, Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1–5:26), we discover how God made a way for His people to come close—and how it all points to Yeshua. Shalom dear friends, This week we begin the book of Leviticus with Parashat Vayikra, a portion that speaks deeply about God’s desire for relationship with His people. After the Tabernacle was completed and God’s presence filled it, a new question arose: how can we come near to a holy God? The answer begins with a call. “Then the LORD called to Moses…” (Leviticus 1:1) The Hebrew word Vayikra means “and He called.” God is not distant—He invites us into His presence. Through the sacrificial system, we see how God made a way for His people to draw near. The Hebrew word Korban (offering) comes from a root meaning “to come near.” These offerings were not just rituals—they were about restoring relationship, dealing with sin, and creating space for fellowship with God. But these sacrifices were also pointing forward. They find their fulfillment in Yeshua, the ultimate offering. Where sacrifices were once repeated again and again, He offered Himself once and for all. Through Him, the way into God’s presence is fully opened. “For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14) Today, God is still calling. The question is—are we responding? ⸻ In this teaching, you will discover: • Why God calls His people to draw near • The deeper meaning behind the sacrificial system • What the Hebrew word Korban reveals about relationship with God • How Yeshua fulfills the purpose of sacrifice • What it means for us to draw near to God today https://www.beithallel-israel.org #pastorisraelpochtar #beithallelashdod #prayforisrael #istandwithisrael #messianicjudaism #yeshua