Mostly quotes below in a good and relatively thorough chapter on Leviticus. The only thing I thought missing was the insight that some authors, especially James Jordan and Peter Leithart, bring to an understanding of the different sacrifices and their components.
Leviticus is particularly concerned with holiness and purity, explicating how the holy one of Israel may continue to dwell with Israel. Leviticus refers sixty times to what is done “before the LORD,” showing that the Lord’s presence is central in the book. (p48)
The laying on of one hand occurs when the sacrifice is for a single individual… and the laying on of two hands occurs when the sacrifice is for the community or more than one individual. (p51)
A verse from Proverbs sums up the purpose of the guilt/reparation offering: “Fools mock at the guilt/reparation offering, by the upright enjoy acceptance” (Prov. 14:9). The word “acceptance” indicates the function of the guilt/reparation offering. The one who offers a guilt/reparation offering will receive forgiveness of sins and be restored to a right relationship to the Lord. (p55)
Sacrifices were brought so that Israel could enjoy the beauty and joy of the lord’s presence without being annihilated by his intense holiness. The Lord, in his love, provided forgiveness so that his people would have fellowship with him. (p57)
Sprinkle suggests that the most satisfying explanation for the regulations regarding cleanness. Israel’s laws separated them from the Gentiles to prevent Israel from being contaminated by the idolatry and evil practiced by the gentiles. The food laws made it difficult for Jews to enjoy table fellowship with Gentiles, and if peoples do not share at table together, they are less likely to influence on another. (p59)
Israel’s responsibility is to live in such a way that they do not profane and debase God’s name. They are to do everything for the glory of the Lord. By living in holiness, they will sanctify God’s name, displaying his holiness in the world. (p63)
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