READ LEVITICUS 22
Leviticus 22 depicts Moses once more detailing specific instructions for the priesthood on receiving and handling offerings from the people. Whether they are peace, vow, free will, or thanksgiving offerings, both the receivers and givers must adhere to God's guidelines. The chapter underscores the importance of cleanliness and purity in offerings, serving as a symbolic representation of the purity and holiness of Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity.
The final three verses of the chapter hold significant importance for its interpretation. Let's revisit them: "Therefore shall ye keep my commandments, and do them: I am the LORD. Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I am the LORD which hallow you, That brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I am the LORD."
God emphatically repeats "I am the Lord" three times to emphasize the authority of His commandments. While this should be sufficient for obedience, there are three compelling reasons to fear and respect God's ways in our lives.
Firstly, the singular command to "keep my commands" in verse 31 is reminiscent of Christ's words in John 14:15, "If ye love me, keep my commandments." Our growing love for God will naturally lead us to follow His teachings. Through obedience driven by love, our relationship with Him will deepen and flourish.
Secondly, in verse 32, God instructs the priests not to defile His holy name, emphasizing the importance of representing His holiness to the people. Just as God sanctified Israel through His laws and sacrifices, we are also sanctified through Christ as we align with His Spirit. Our lives should reflect His holiness, allowing others to witness God's sanctifying power through our actions and attitudes. Jeremiah the prophet speaks to this saying, "But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people." This is how atheists perceive God based on our personal experiences. Hopefully, everyone we encounter will witness and feel His divine presence through our actions and demeanor.
Thirdly, in verse 33, God reminds the Israelites that He delivered them from Egypt to be their God and Lord, a statement filled with significance and joy. Similarly, God has freed us from spiritual bondage to be in a relationship with Him. In response, we should approach Him with humility and gratitude, allowing His sanctifying work to flow through us as we commit to His ways each day. This life of sanctification in Christ is genuine, joyful, and transformative.
QUESTIONS
1. Why did God stress three times, "I am the Lord"?
2. How does obeying His commandments assist us in leading a holy life?
3. Think about a situation in your life that God has rescued you from, and remember to show gratitude for it today.