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Drawing Near to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ ❓ What do the perpetual lamp and the bread of presence teach us about God’s light and provision for His people? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT This chapter takes us into the very heart of the tabernacle service, focusing on two key elements: the perpetual lamp  and the bread of presence . The lamp was never to go out, a sign of God’s unceasing presence and His light shining in the world’s darkness. The twelve loaves, representing all the tribes of Israel, were placed before God every Sabbath, signifying God’s continual provision and covenantal fellowship. Here we see how God gives tangible signs of His presence and His daily care (Exodus 27:20–21; Hebrews 9:2; Revelation 1:12–13). 📖 Read First: Leviticus 24 Oil for the perpetual lamp  (Leviticus 24:1–4) Bread of presence before the Lord  (Leviticus 24:5–9) Judgment for blasphemy  (Leviticus 24:10–23) 🔍 STUDY STRUCTURE FOR THIS CHAPTER 1. THE PERPETUAL LAMP – GOD’S LIGHT (Leviticus 24:1–4) Pure olive oil was required so that the lamp might continually burn. This light was not just functional but symbolized God’s presence and the prayers rising to Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). Aaron’s blessing (Numbers 6:25)  gains fresh meaning: “The Lord make His face shine upon you.”  Jesus declares: “I am the light of the world; whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life”  (John 8:12). This lamp calls us to live carrying His light, showing deeds of light (Matthew 5:14–16; Ephesians 5:8–9). 2. BREAD OF PRESENCE – COVENANT PROVISION (Leviticus 24:5–9) The twelve loaves, representing all the tribes, were placed before God every Sabbath. This demonstrated that Israel’s life and sustenance depended on God. The priests ate this bread as a sign of the nation’s fellowship with God (1 Samuel 21:1–6). Jesus fulfills this by proclaiming: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to Me shall never hunger”  (John 6:35). God’s table is now extended to the whole world through the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 10:16–17), creating spiritual unity among His people. 3. HONORING THE HOLY NAME OF GOD (Leviticus 24:10–23) The story of the man who cursed God’s name teaches the seriousness of honoring Him (Exodus 20:7). Jesus warns: “Everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken”  (Matthew 12:36–37). Light and provision cannot be separated from reverence for God’s name. This is a call to live as witnesses of His name and to share fellowship at His table with reverence. 🛡️ BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION Toward the New Eden:  The lamp and bread recall Eden’s garden: God’s light and the tree of life, fulfilled in Christ (Revelation 21:23; 22:1–2). This teaches us that God’s plan from the beginning is to bring humanity into His eternal presence. The Bible’s final vision reveals God’s city where His light never fails and His life never ends, fulfilling what was promised in Eden. The Lamp as Prayer and Presence:  The perpetual light shows the continuity of prayer and God’s abiding presence (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18; Hebrews 7:25). It is a picture of hearts burning with ceaseless prayer, holding close fellowship with God in every circumstance. The unfailing flame invites us to live in unbroken relationship with God, where every breath and every act becomes a prayer of gratitude. The Bread as Fellowship and Life:  The bread of presence teaches us about the Lord’s Table and the unity of Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 11:23–26). This bread is a sign of the life given by Christ to all who believe, breaking down walls of hostility and bringing unity. By sharing this table, we are reminded that our spiritual life and fellowship as believers come from Christ’s love and sacrifice. God’s Name and Mission:  Honoring God’s name makes us “the light of the world” and “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13–16), guarding both lips and hearts (James 3:9–10). Honoring God through words and actions becomes a testimony of His glory to a watching world. As salt and light, our lives should reflect the worth of God’s name and draw others toward the light of the gospel. 🔥 LIFE APPLICATION Be a Light:  The perpetual lamp teaches us to live as witnesses of Christ’s light in word and deed. Let your smile, your kindness to an elderly neighbor or a burdened youth, be like a lamp shining wherever you are. When you help a neighbor expecting nothing in return, the world knows Christ’s light still burns. Share God’s Table:  The Lord’s Table teaches us to remember God’s provision and the unity of Christ’s body. It is like a family sitting down together, laughing and sharing one loaf, knowing they are blessed to be one. Each week, consider inviting a neighbor or friend who has no family, eating together, showing that God’s table knows no walls. Honor the Name:  Our lives should confirm reverence for God’s name in family, work, and community. Choose not to speak a harsh word at work, or choose to embrace your child and say, “You are a blessing,” giving honor to God’s name. In everyday actions—guarding your words on social media or seeking forgiveness when you have wronged someone—the name of God shines like the morning sun. 🙌 CLOSING BLESSING May the Lord make His face shine upon you and fill you with the light of His grace. May He feed you with the bread of life and keep you steadfast in His holy name. Amen. 🔍 REFLECTION QUESTIONS Friend, where in your heart does a shadow still wait to be lit by Christ’s light, as the sky waits for dawn? What small habits, like giving thanks before every meal or writing down daily gratitude, can you build to remember that all your provision comes from Him each day? How do you honor God’s name in your words and decisions, knowing every word you speak is a seed that can grow love or pain? 👥 FOR STUDY GROUPS Discuss: What do the perpetual lamp and the bread of presence mean for believers today? Share: How can we honor God’s name in a society that often disrespects spiritual things? ➡️ Next Lesson: Leviticus 25 – Sabbath and the Year of Jubilee What do the Sabbath and the Year of Jubilee teach us about freedom and renewal in Christ?

Drawing Near to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ What do the Feasts of the Lord teach us about God’s appointed times and His invitation to rest and celebration? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND THEOLOGICAL CONTEXT Leviticus 23 is like God’s calendar —directing the history of salvation through sacred days and seasons ( moedim ). While other nations used calendars to mark agricultural cycles and wars, God called Israel to align their entire lives with His times of rest, redemption, and celebration . Here we see the Gospel in shadow form: Christ is the fulfillment of these appointed times (Galatians 4:4), turning history into a story of celebration leading humanity into God’s rest  (Hebrews 4:1–11). The Torah was never meant to be just a collection of legal rules , but rather covenant wisdom —an invitation to share in God’s order of creation and redemption. These feasts are like the opening notes of a grand symphony, giving us a foretaste of the great festival of God’s coming Kingdom. 📖 SUMMARY OF LEVITICUS 23 Weekly Sabbath  (23:1–3) – a sign of creation rest and redemption. Passover & Unleavened Bread  (23:4–8) – remembrance of deliverance through the blood of the lamb. Firstfruits Offering  (23:9–14) – presenting the first produce to God. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost)  (23:15–22) – celebrating the close of harvest and the gift of the Word and Spirit. Fall Festivals  (23:23–44) – Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Tabernacles, symbolizing judgment, forgiveness, and eternal rest. 📘 STUDY OUTLINE 1. SABBATH – FOUNDATION OF GOD’S REST (23:1–3) The Sabbath points back to creation (Genesis 2:1–3) and redemption (Deuteronomy 5:12–15). It is a sign of the covenant  that God is both Creator and Redeemer. Hebrews 4:9–10 sees the Sabbath fulfilled in Christ, who gives us the rest of grace . It teaches us that life was never meant to be an endless machine, but a shared journey with God filled with friendship and true rest. 2. PASSOVER AND UNLEAVENED BREAD – SALVATION THROUGH BLOOD (23:4–8) Passover recalled the blood on the doorposts (Exodus 12), a sign of judgment passing over. The unleavened bread symbolized removing the old corruption and starting a new life. The New Testament identifies Jesus as the Passover Lamb  (1 Corinthians 5:7), leading us out of slavery to sin into the freedom of God’s Kingdom. 3. FIRSTFRUITS OFFERING – THE FIRST YIELD (23:9–14) The firstfruits declared that all harvest belongs to the Lord. Paul links this to Christ’s resurrection: “Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep”  (1 Corinthians 15:20). Just as firstfruits promised a full harvest, Christ’s resurrection guarantees ours. 4. FEAST OF WEEKS (PENTECOST) – POWER OF THE SPIRIT (23:15–22) This feast closed the harvest season with two loaves baked with leaven—a sign that all nations, despite their flaws, were welcomed into God’s plan. In Acts 2, this was fulfilled through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, launching the harvest of the nations . We are all called to join in this mission, bearing witness to the Gospel to the ends of the earth. 5. FEAST OF TRUMPETS – THE CALL TO AWAKEN (23:23–25) The trumpet blast announced the start of the spiritual year and preparation for judgment. In its ultimate fulfillment, the trumpet represents the call of the Gospel  and the voice of Christ’s return  (1 Thessalonians 4:16). It is an invitation to awaken from the sleep of sin. 6. DAY OF ATONEMENT – REMOVAL OF SIN (23:26–32) This was a day of fasting, cleansing, and restoration. Leviticus 16 shows God’s provision for forgiveness. Jesus, by His blood, accomplished atonement once for all (Hebrews 9:12). We are called to live daily as reconciled people, extending forgiveness to all around us. 7. FEAST OF TABERNACLES – REMEMBRANCE AND HOPE (23:33–44) The tabernacles reminded Israel of life in the wilderness and God’s protection but also celebrated the final harvest. They point forward to the ultimate festival when God will dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:3). It was a celebration of joy—like God’s family singing together at a great festival. 🛡️ THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION History as festival:  These Levitical feasts form a salvation story, moving from creation (Sabbath) to redemption (Passover), Spirit empowerment (Pentecost), judgment and forgiveness (Trumpets and Atonement), and Kingdom joy (Tabernacles). Christ as the center:  Jesus is the true Sabbath (creation rest), the Passover Lamb (redemption), the firstfruits (resurrection), the Spirit-giver (Pentecost), the final trumpet (His return), and the eternal Tabernacle (God with us). Call to the church:  God’s calendar teaches us to shape our lives by His rhythm—blending rest, celebration, repentance, and hope. 🔥 LIFE APPLICATION Rest with purpose:  Like an artist laying down the pen to hear the wind, let go of life’s distractions and rest in Christ’s grace. Celebrate salvation:  Let every day be filled with gratitude, like a song of freedom, thanking God for Christ’s saving blood. Join God’s harvest:  Give your heart to the world’s field, proclaiming the Gospel in the power of the Spirit, as though plowing soil thirsty for hope. Prepare for the trumpet:  Walk in holiness, living in repentance, like one sensing the morning light announcing His soon return. Rejoice in eternal rest:  Hold a heart of gratitude and joy, like a bride awaiting the wedding feast of the Lamb with a smile. 🔍 DISCUSSION QUESTIONS What do these feasts teach us about God’s plan for human history? How can we create a spiritual rhythm  today that reflects rest, celebration, and repentance? In what ways has Jesus uniquely fulfilled all the feasts of Leviticus? 🙌 CLOSING BLESSING May the Lord help you live by His appointed times, fill you with the joy of His festivals and the peace of His rest, and make you a sign of His coming Kingdom. Amen. Next Lesson: Leviticus 24 – Lamps and Bread Before the Lord What do the lamp and the bread of the Presence teach us about God’s light and provision for His people?

Drawing to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ What is the connection between offerings and the Lord’s Table with the daily life of believers? 📖 INTRODUCTION: THE STORY OF GOD’S TABLE Leviticus 22 brings us to the climax of the message of holiness  that permeates the whole book. Here we see how God guards His table: who may approach it, in what condition, and with what kind of heart. It is not an ordinary meal; it is a covenant table  that reveals God’s presence among His people. This gives us a unique picture of the Lord’s Table  (the Bread and the Cup of Christ), where Jesus, as the true host, calls His disciples to eat and drink at His table (Luke 22:19–20). As with Israel, so it is today: to come to the table without reverence is dangerous to our souls  (1 Cor 11:27–29). 📜 STRUCTURE OF THE LEVITICUS 22 AND ITS PURPOSE Duties of Priests and Holiness of Offerings (22:1–9)  – Priests had to be physically and ceremonially clean before handling the offerings. Regulations on Who May Eat Offerings (22:10–16)  – Offerings were sacred gifts; they could not be eaten by anyone outside the covenant. Quality of Offerings (22:17–30)  – Defective offerings were unacceptable; only the best was to be given. Call to Holiness (22:31–33)  – The overarching reason for all these: “Be holy, because I am holy.” 🔍 HISTORICAL, SCRIPTURAL, AND INTERTEXTUAL ANALYSIS 1. Priest and the Holiness of Offerings God required priests to avoid defilement (22:1–9) to demonstrate that those serving at His table must model the purity expected of the whole nation. This reflects the covenant system: the Lord’s servants must mirror His holiness  (compare Leviticus 21). In the New Testament, this call shifts from the Levitical priesthood to all believers as “a royal priesthood, a holy nation”  (1 Peter 2:9). 2. Offerings for Covenant Members Only The offerings were covenant food. They were not to be eaten by foreigners or hired workers (22:10–16) because they were a sign of exclusive fellowship between God and His people. This echoes the Lord’s Table, where Paul warns against participating without discernment (1 Cor 11:27–29). Participation in Christ’s table is an invitation to live as true members of the new covenant. 3. Quality of Offerings: A Picture of Christ The offering had to be without blemish  (22:17–25). This foreshadowed Christ, the spotless Lamb (1 Peter 1:18–19), who fulfilled everything these offerings symbolized. People brought their best to God as a sign of respect and love, teaching us today to offer our lives as “living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God”  (Romans 12:1). 4. Thank Offerings and Immediate Response The thank offering had to be eaten within one or two days (22:29–30). This signifies that God’s grace is not to be delayed; it requires an immediate response (2 Cor 6:2). The offering was not just a memory but an invitation to share in God’s presence now. 🛡 THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION Covenant Table:  From Levitical offerings to the Lord’s Table, God invites His people to sit with Him—to eat, share, and live covenant lives (Matthew 26:26–29; Revelation 19:9). Quality of Offerings and Christ:  The flawless offering points to Jesus’ own sacrifice, giving His body as the bread of life. The Lord’s Table is participation in His perfect sacrifice. Call to Holiness:  From Sinai to the early Church, the message is the same: “Be holy, because I am holy”  (Leviticus 22:31–33; 1 Peter 1:15–16). God’s holiness transforms every area of our lives—our food, work, and relationships. 🔥 LIFE APPLICATIONS Life as an Offering:  Is your daily life becoming God’s table ? Consider your work, family, and use of time as an offering of love to God and neighbor. Participation in the Lord’s Table:  Before sharing the bread and cup, ask yourself: Is my heart ready to meet the Lord at His table? Giving God Your Best:  Are your gifts, time, and faithfulness giving God the best or just what is left over? 🙏 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES Daily Reflection:  Begin the day with the prayer: “Lord, today I want my life to be a living sacrifice before You.” Heart Circumcision:  Pray a prayer of repentance before partaking of the Lord’s Table, remembering Christ’s sacrifice. Thank Offering:  Give with a grateful heart, recognizing every blessing as an opportunity to return it to God. 🙌 CLOSING PRAYER Holy Lord, teach us to see Your table as a place of grace and holiness. Cleanse our hearts so that every act and every breath becomes an offering of honor before You. Amen. 📢 GROUP QUESTIONS How can you make your everyday life a special offering  to God? What steps can you take to participate in the Lord’s Table with greater reverence and joy? ➡ Next Lesson: LEVITICUS 23 – Feasts of the Lord Question: What do the feasts of the Lord teach us about God’s timing and His invitation to rest and celebration?

Drawing Close to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Jesus Christ ❓ Why did God set special requirements for the priests regarding their lives and service, and what does it teach us about the holiness of those who minister before Him today? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT Leviticus 21 is part of the Holiness Code  (Leviticus 17–26), focusing on how Israel was to live near the presence of God dwelling in the Tent of Meeting. This call to holiness for the priests comes from the biblical foundation: “Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy”  (Leviticus 19:2). The priests were more than ritual functionaries; they were those who lifted the hands of the people to God  and also lifted the face of God toward the people  (Numbers 6:22–27). Therefore, their private lives, families, and even physical health were directly related to the honor of the altar and the honor of God’s name. 📖 STRUCTURE OF LEVITICUS 21 Concerning contact with the dead and mourning  (vv. 1–6) Marriage restrictions for priests  (vv. 7–8) Special requirements for the High Priest  (vv. 10–15) Rules concerning physical defects  (vv. 16–24) 🔍 TEXTUAL EXPLANATION 1. The Dead and Mourning (vv. 1–6) Touching a dead body was viewed as a source of ritual impurity (Numbers 19:11–22); therefore, priests were urged to avoid it except for close relatives. A modern example would be a worship leader avoiding superstitious funeral practices in order to demonstrate the hope of eternal life in Christ (John 11:25–26). 2. Marriage and Honor in Ministry (vv. 7–8) A priest was to marry a woman of honor, not a prostitute or a divorced woman, protecting the honor of his household as a sign of purity in ministry. Similarly today, spiritual leaders often choose spouses who share their faith and values—for example, a pastor marrying a supportive partner who enhances rather than opposes ministry (Malachi 2:7–16; Ephesians 5:25–27). 3. The High Priest – The Highest Standard (vv. 10–15) The High Priest, who entered the Holy of Holies, was called to complete consecration: avoiding public displays of mourning and marrying only a virgin as a symbol of new life. A modern example might be senior church leaders called to lives of humility and moral purity, modeling Christ, the eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7:26). 4. Physical Defects and Altar Service (vv. 16–24) A priest with a physical defect was not excluded from the priestly community but was restricted from altar service, symbolizing the perfection anticipated in the work of atonement. Today, this might be compared to certain ministries that require specific physical capacities while affirming that everyone has value and dignity before God, just as Christ was the perfect, unblemished sacrifice (1 Peter 1:19). 🛡 THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONS Call to Holiness : Leviticus 21 shows that the presence of God requires unique purity . Just as all Israel was called to be a holy nation (Exodus 19:5–6), priests were required to embody an even higher standard. Priest as a Foreshadow of Christ : The life and regulations of priests point toward Jesus Christ, who is not only the High Priest but also the perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 9:11–14). The Church as a Royal Priesthood : In the New Testament, this call extends to the entire church: “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation”  (1 Peter 2:9). The ministry of every believer, not just pastors, becomes a sign of God’s presence in the world . 🔥 LIFE APPLICATIONS Ministry as a Calling, not a Job : Gospel workers are called to live honorably not simply because of their title but because their lives are part of their message. Honor for Ministry : The church should support pastors and leaders in living lives of spiritual and moral accountability. Every Believer is a Priest : The call to holiness extends to every person in Christ. Everyday life—family, work, business—can become an “altar” of worship to God (Romans 12:1–2). 🛤 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES Prayer of Consecration : Each morning and evening, take a few minutes to pray specifically for an area where you need help—for example, asking for a heart free from jealousy at work or patience at home, so your whole life becomes a vessel usable by God. Life Reflection : Write down three areas that need spiritual cleansing—perhaps a pattern of harsh speech, a financial decision, or an attitude that belittles others. Reflect on how God’s Word can guide those changes. Community Ministry : Join a prayer group or volunteer ministry; for example, visiting the sick, sharing food with the homeless, or worshiping together in small groups, so that your collective witness is visible in the community. 🙏 CLOSING PRAYER Holy Lord, You have called us to be a kingdom of priests. Teach us to live pure and honorable lives, so that our service may be a sweet aroma before You and a light to the world. Amen. ➡️ Next Study: Leviticus 22 – Holiness of Offerings and the Lord’s Table What do offerings and the Lord’s table have to do with the everyday lives of believers?

Drawing Near to God: Visiting Leviticus, Beholding Jesus Christ ❓ Why did God establish severe penalties, even the death penalty, for certain sins? Was His purpose to frighten people, or to protect the holiness of the nation that bore His name? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT Leviticus 20 lies at the heart of the Holiness Code (Leviticus 17–26) , a section that emphasizes daily life under God’s call: “Be holy because I, the Lord, am holy”  (19:2). In ancient Israel, sin was not merely a private matter but a societal and cultic crisis. God dwelt among His people, and their character was to reflect His presence. Serious sins such as Molek worship, witchcraft, and the breakdown of family through sexual immorality and forbidden relationships were considered pollution of the land and the sanctuary . God says: “Do not defile yourselves by any of these things, because this is how the nations that I am casting out before you became defiled”  (18:24). Leviticus 20 spells out the consequences of disobedience: death, being cut off from the community, and loss of inheritance in the land. 📖 Read First: Leviticus 20 Main categories of sin and their penalties: Molek Worship and Witchcraft  – offering children as sacrifices, consulting mediums and spiritists (20:1–6). Penalty: death and removal from God’s presence. Sexual Immorality and Family Violations  – adultery, sleeping with in-laws, sisters, one’s wife’s sister, animals, or same-sex relations (20:10–21). Penalty: death or curse of childlessness. Final Call to Holiness  – separation from the nations and keeping God’s laws (20:7–8, 22–26). 📖 TEXTUAL AND EXEGETICAL ANALYSIS 1. Judgment Against Molek Worship and Spiritism (20:1–6) Molek represented a cruel cult of child sacrifice. God declared this worship to be an affront to His holy name. In the context of the Old Testament, consulting mediums and spiritists was seen as breaking covenant loyalty , as if the nation sought guidance and protection from powers other than YHWH. The death penalty here underscores that cultic corruption strikes at the very core of God’s presence among His people  (see Deuteronomy 18:9–14). 2. Sexual Sin and Family Breakdown (20:10–21) This section gives detailed prohibitions of adultery and forbidden family relationships. These laws protect the sanctity of marriage, family, and inheritance , which formed the foundation of Israel’s social life. These acts are labeled “to’evah” (abomination)  – a term used for covenant-breaking acts that bring defilement (see Numbers 18:22; Deuteronomy 7:25–26). Similarly, Paul in the New Testament warns that to sin sexually is to destroy one’s body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18–20). 3. Call to Holiness (20:7–8, 22–26) The laws end not with penalties alone but with invitation: “Consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am the Lord your God”  (v. 7). This highlights that the judgments are not merely punitive but are meant to guide people into a life of fellowship with God  and distinction from other nations. The word “separated”  in verse 26 shows the trajectory of the entire covenant: God’s people are called to be “a royal priesthood and a holy nation”  (Exodus 19:6; 1 Peter 2:9). 🛡️ THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION God as Protector of Life  – the judgment against Molek worship and sorcery affirms that life is God’s gift and must not be sacrificed to false gods or degraded by occult powers. Sin is Social and Relational  – sexual immorality and occult practices do not harm only individuals but destroy families, communities, and the spiritual heritage of a people. These laws show that holiness has a social dimension , not merely a personal or spiritual one. Holiness as Covenant Calling  – the severe judgments aim to preserve the unique relationship between God and His people. It is a call to live differently  (holy distinction), not out of pride but as a witness to God’s grace to all nations. 🔥 LIFE APPLICATION How seriously do we take sins that destroy families and society today (abuse, corruption, human trafficking, treating people as commodities)? Do we realize that moral failure has consequences not only for individuals but also for the honor and legacy of a people? Holiness in Christ today means choosing a different path : rejecting sin, honoring the body as a temple of the Spirit, and living as people of the new covenant (1 Peter 1:15–16). 🛤️ SPIRITUAL PRACTICES Life Examination  – look at areas where culture or tradition influences your decisions against God’s will. Prayer of Repentance and Separation from Evil  – ask for the Spirit’s grace to leave sin and choose Christ’s way. Family Conversations  – discuss with children and family members biblical principles on honor, purity, and holiness. 🙏 FINAL PRAYER Holy God, You called Israel to be a holy nation, and in Christ You have called us into the new covenant. Help us to hate evil and love what is good. Lead us in the path of holiness and give us the strength of Your Spirit to live in honor and goodness. Amen. 📚 NOTES AND REFERENCES L. Michael Morales , Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?  – shows that the Holiness Code aims to bring people near to God through holy living and pure worship. Ellen G. White , Patriarchs and Prophets  – explains how these judgments protected the nation from corrupt worship and moral decay. John Walton , The Lost World of the Torah  – notes that the Torah was intended as covenant wisdom  for the community, not merely as modern-style legislation. Jacob Milgrom , Leviticus 17–22 (Anchor Yale Bible)  – details how harsh penalties were meant to safeguard the sanctuary, community, and land from defilement. Next Lesson: Leviticus 21 – Holiness of the Priests and the Service of the Altar Question:  Why did God set special requirements for priests regarding their life and service, and what does it teach us about the holiness of those who serve before Him today?

Drawing Near to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ Can ordinary life become an altar of God’s holiness? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT Leviticus 19 is part of the “Holiness Code” , which combines everyday laws with a call to be covenant people reflecting the Holy God (Leviticus 19:2). This code was given as Israel prepared to live as a redeemed nation, having come out of Egypt, and later shaped their identity during and after exile (see Nehemiah 8; Ezekiel 36:24–28). These commands relate directly to the grand narrative of Scripture: God creating the world and humanity in His image (Genesis 1:26–27) and calling them to live in a just and loving community (Matthew 5–7). Jesus quotes Leviticus 19:18 “Love your neighbor as yourself”  as the second greatest commandment after loving God (Matthew 22:37–40; Mark 12:29–31). Paul and James show that this command is the essence of the law (Romans 13:8–10; James 2:8–13). STUDY OUTLINE FOR LEVITICUS 19 1. HOLINESS BEGINS WITH GOD – vv. 1–2 The foundation of holiness is not fear of punishment but an invitation to reflect God’s loving and righteous character (1 Peter 1:15–16). Here we see covenant union: the God who made the Sinai covenant commands His people to live in His likeness, showing His character in their daily lives. Jesus and Peter affirm this principle in the New Testament (Matthew 5:48; 1 Peter 1:15–16). Holiness is the result of a covenant of love, not a personal achievement but the fruit of God’s presence among His people. 2. HOLINESS IN HOME AND COMMUNITY – vv. 3–8 Honoring parents ensures generational connection and preserves social order that reflects God’s care (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1–4). Celebrating the Sabbath created space to rest and demonstrate trust that God is the source of provision, not human effort alone (Exodus 20:8–11; Deuteronomy 5:12–15). Holiness begins in the home and spreads to the whole community, showing that household and family life are part of God’s plan for shalom. 3. HOLINESS IN RELATIONSHIPS – vv. 9–18 The command to leave parts of the harvest for the poor and the foreigner (vv. 9–10; cf. Ruth 2) teaches that resources are God’s gift and must be shared. Prohibitions against stealing, cheating, and hatred build trust and neighborly love. The climax is the central command: “Love your neighbor as yourself”  (Leviticus 19:18), which Jesus connects directly to loving God (Matthew 22:37–40). Paul calls this the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:8–10), and James calls it the “royal law” (James 2:8–13). Everyday relationships thus become the arena to display God’s character. 4. HOLINESS OF BODY AND CULTURE – vv. 19–28 Commands concerning clothing, body markings, and certain cultural practices separated Israel from pagan worship and death-related customs. The body was called to be an instrument of honoring God (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). The New Testament continues this idea by urging believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1–2). Holiness involves bodily decisions, lifestyle choices, and cultural practices, signaling that God’s people live by different standards. 5. HOLINESS IN BUSINESS AND JUSTICE – vv. 29–36 Here holiness extends to sexual ethics, honoring the elderly (v. 32), fair measures, and loving the stranger (vv. 33–34). God identifies Himself as the one who brought Israel out of Egypt, showing that their redemption experience must be reflected in how they treat others. Micah 6:8 emphasizes this call to live with justice, mercy, and humility before God. In the New Testament, this continues in Jesus’ teaching to “do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12) and James’s instructions on honest business (James 5:1–6). CONCLUSION: LIVING IN THE COVENANT – v. 37 The conclusion emphasizes: “Keep all my decrees and laws and follow them. I am the LORD.”  Holiness is a way of life that testifies that God is our Lord. In Christ, this is expanded further: we live not in fear of the law but by the power of the Spirit, receiving a new identity as new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:13–26). God’s holiness as the foundation of ethics : God is separate from sin and calls His people to live distinct lives (Isaiah 6:3; Leviticus 19:2). Holiness touches every aspect of life : not just worship but also family, business, and our bodies (Romans 12:1–2). This code is fulfilled in Christ : Jesus makes us living temples, and love becomes the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:10). Social justice as part of holiness : neighborly love means caring for the poor, the stranger, and fair business practices (James 2:8–9). LIFE APPLICATION AND GOSPEL INSIGHT Which area of your everyday life needs transformation to become an act of worship to God – at work, at home, or online? Do you recognize the poor and foreigners as part of the covenant call to serve them with compassion and justice? Are there patterns or unfair practices in your life that need correction and healing through the grace of Christ? CLOSING BLESSING May the Lord enable you to live in everyday holiness, loving God and neighbor by the power of the Holy Spirit. May He make you a living temple and a witness of His grace. Amen. GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS How does holiness in Leviticus 19 relate to the daily life of a Christian today (cf. Romans 13:8–10)? Why does Jesus put “love your neighbor” as the second greatest commandment (James 2:8–13)? What examples of ordinary activities can be transformed into true acts of worship to God? NEXT: LEVITICUS 20 – JUDGMENT ON SIN AND THE PRESERVATION OF HOLINESS

Drawing Near to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ ❓How can we inhabit a world full of compromise and brokenness, yet keep our hearts whole and aligned with God? 🪔 Introduction and Context Leviticus 18 stands as part of the "Holiness Code" (Leviticus 17–26), a section where God is shaping Israel into a people who reflect His character in every aspect of life. This is not just about avoiding a list of taboos—it’s about embodying a radically different way of being human, right in the middle of cultures saturated with exploitation, distorted sexuality, and destructive worship practices. God calls His people to be distinct, not in an isolated monastery, but right in the public square, family life, and even economic systems. It’s a story about how holiness—being set apart for God—transforms the everyday realities of how people relate to each other, to their bodies, and ultimately to Him. “Do not do as they do in Egypt... or as they do in Canaan... but keep my decrees and laws and live by them” (Leviticus 18:3–5). In other words, Israel is invited to step out of two powerful cultural stories—Egypt’s oppressive, exploitative systems and Canaan’s fertility cults—and step into God’s story, where life is a gift and relationships are sacred. 📖 Read First: Leviticus 18 Take note of how the prohibitions are arranged like concentric circles, starting with family and rippling out to society and worship practices: Distortions of family relationships (incest). Distortions of covenant fidelity (adultery). Distortions of sexual identity and purpose (homosexuality and bestiality). Distortions of worship itself (child sacrifice to Molek). All of this is summed up with the image of the land itself “vomiting out” its inhabitants—a vivid metaphor showing how injustice and impurity are not just personal problems; they fracture creation itself. STUDY OUTLINE FOR THIS CHAPTER 1. A Counter-Cultural Call to Separation  (Leviticus 18:1–5) Israel is commanded to reject the cultural scripts of both Egypt and Canaan. This isn’t moral superiority; it’s vocational clarity. God is forming a people who embody His life-giving presence in a world bent on death. Holiness is both internal (the desires of the heart) and external (practices, ethics, community standards). The life God offers is holistic: “the person who does these things will live by them.” 2. Reclaiming Sexuality as Sacred  (Leviticus 18:6–23) These prohibitions are not arbitrary taboos but boundary markers for protecting the dignity of persons and relationships: Incest distorts the trust and safety of family bonds. Adultery breaks covenantal faithfulness. Homosexual acts and bestiality in this ancient context were often tied to pagan temple rituals, fusing sexuality with idolatry and power dynamics.In God’s vision, sexuality is not a tool for domination or self-gratification; it is a covenantal gift meant to mirror divine faithfulness and creative love. 3. Molek Worship and the Violation of Life  (Leviticus 18:21) Child sacrifice to Molek epitomized the inversion of God’s order: life given as a gift becomes a bargaining chip to manipulate the gods. By forbidding this, God affirms that children—and indeed all life—are not commodities but sacred trust. 4. Holiness and the Health of Creation  (Leviticus 18:24–30) Sin here is ecological as well as ethical: the land itself “vomits out” its inhabitants. Holiness is not only personal piety; it’s about aligning with the Creator’s design so that relationships, communities, and even the soil we stand on flourish. Israel is to embody this holistic holiness as a witness to the nations. KEY THEMES AND LESSONS Holiness Is Whole-Person:  It involves body, mind, and spirit. How we treat our bodies and others’ bodies is deeply spiritual. Sin Is Social and Ecological:  Broken relationships ripple outward, corrupting society and even creation itself. Identity Shapes Ethics:  Israel’s ethics flow from who they are as God’s people. Likewise, our identity in Christ calls us to live differently, not out of fear but out of love. Jesus as Fulfillment:  Jesus embodies the pure heart envisioned here—showing us that true holiness is not withdrawal but redemptive presence. His words echo this vision: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God”  (Matthew 5:8). LIFE APPLICATIONS Identity Check:  Where are we letting cultural scripts define what is normal or acceptable? How does belonging to Christ reshape that? Embodied Faithfulness:  Holiness is not abstract. It’s seen in how we handle relationships, sexuality, power, and worship. What habits reinforce that calling in your life? Community Matters:  Just as Israel’s holiness was communal, the church’s witness today depends on how we embody holiness together—in friendships, marriages, church life, and public engagement. Holiness as Healing:  This isn’t about shame or withdrawal but about restoration. Where are you called to bring healing presence—in your family, workplace, or community? GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Which cultural pressures today parallel Egypt and Canaan for us? Where do you feel pulled to compromise? What practices help you keep your heart pure while still engaging meaningfully in a broken world? How does seeing holiness as relational and restorative (not just rule-keeping) change the way you think about ethics and mission? CLOSING BLESSING May the God who called Israel out of Egypt and into holiness call your heart into His life-giving presence. May He purify your desires, guide your steps, and shape you into a living signpost of His love in a fractured world. And may your life—body, mind, spirit—become a witness that there is another way to be human, one shaped by Jesus’ self-giving love. Amen. ➡️ Next Lesson: Leviticus 19 – Holiness in Everyday Life Annotated Bibliography Jacob Milgrom, Leviticus 17–22 (AYB)  – Detailed commentary on the Holiness Code and its covenantal distinctiveness. John Walton, The Lost World of the Torah  – Explains Torah as wisdom shaping community order rather than just legislation. L. Michael Morales, Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?  – Shows how holiness and nearness to God are central to Leviticus’ story. Matthew 5 and Romans 12  – Jesus and Paul’s teaching on holiness as life-giving transformation in Christ.

Drawing Near to God: Visit Leviticus, Behold Christ ❓ Why does God say, "life is in the blood"? How does this crucial statement affect our salvation and our daily life of faith 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT In Leviticus 17, we encounter a fundamental commandment to preserve life, or nefesh  (נֶפֶשׁ), by respecting blood. Blood is not merely a common fluid; on the contrary, it is the seal of life and fully represents atonement and salvation. This commandment directs us to understand the altar as a sacred place for preserving blood with reverence. It also emphasizes how the blood of Christ opens the way to new life for us. 📖 READ FIRST: LEVITICUS 17 (Verses 1–16) "You shall not eat or drink any blood; for the life of every creature is its blood. And I have placed that blood on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul."  (Lev. 17:11) Questions for Exploration and Study: What is the significant importance of blood in relation to life, and why is its misuse strictly forbidden How does the act of placing blood on the altar enable atonement, and what does this reveal about God's plan of reconciliation? 📖 THEOLOGY OF BLOOD AND THE PATH TO ATONEMENT 🩸 Blood and Nefesh: Life, Holiness, and God's Command Let's begin by examining two profoundly weighty words: "blood" (דָּם) and "nefesh" (נֶפֶשׁ). What exactly do these words signify? In the Scriptures, blood is more than the fluid circulating in the body; rather, it is the seal of life , the essence of life's vital forces. Nefesh  holds the meaning of your innermost being—breath, desire, the very essence of life, and even personal identity (Genesis 2:7, Psalm 42:1-2, Deuteronomy 6:5, Proverbs 21:10, and Job 33:4). Leviticus explains the command to protect oneself by preserving blood on the altar. This teaches us that our true value, our entire life, should be protected and honored by returning it to God, its source. This reverence reflects a deep understanding that all life belongs to the Creator, and blood, as its representation, must be treated with unparalleled sanctity. The strict command not to eat or drink blood (Lev. 17:10) was not merely a dietary law, but a theological declaration about the sanctity of life and God's unique right to make atonement. Violating this command had significant spiritual consequences, as it meant severing the connection with the wellspring of life and defiling oneself. Warnings in the Old Law, such as Deuteronomy 28:53, threatened severe punishment against disobedience to God's order. This point was emphasized again in the teachings of the early Church (Acts 15:20), demonstrating the enduring moral and theological importance of this principle for all believers, both Jews and Gentiles. 📜 From Ancient Shadows to New Completion in Christ Let's observe how this idea connects with the entire narrative of creation and salvation. Genesis tells us how God breathed the breath of life into man from the dust, giving him a living nefesh . Here, Leviticus 17 explains blood as the place where the soul resides—it is like a fountain of life , showing the inseparable connection between the breath of life and the essence flowing within us. Through this commandment, we gain a covenant document with God : life is sacred because it originates from Him. In the Old Testament, the price of life was the shed blood of sacrificial animals (Lev. 17:11). This blood represented a life offered to pay for sin that brings death. The altar in the sacred tent was not just a place for religious rituals, but a holy place specifically designated for blood. This act emphasized that life, or nefesh , is consecrated and belongs to God, just as it was from creation when He breathed the breath of life into man. This reverence for life continues to be seen in the New Testament, where believers are called to live lives of inner holiness, setting themselves apart for the Lord (1 Peter 1:2). Our lives are now recognized as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. When we consider forgiveness, we remember Psalm 51:10–12, where the Spirit seeks a pure heart within us, something the blood sacrifices of the Old Testament tried to achieve externally, performing physical purification as a symbol of the need for inner purification. Thus, the blood shed on the altar represented atonement, and it served as a shadow of the new covenant confirmed by the perfect blood of Christ (Hebrews 9:12, 14). His sacrifice on the cross completely fulfilled all the shadows of the Old Testament sacrifices, signifying a major theological shift from animal blood to the Divine Blood with the power to fully save and sanctify (John 6:53–56). Our forgiveness is impossible without the shedding of blood. 📖 SUMMARY AND REFLECTION Leviticus 17 teaches us that blood is the essence of nefesh  (life), and when offered on the altar, it represents the forgiveness of our debt of death owed to sin. The command not to eat blood shows how God honors life, and it leads us to understand that through the blood of Christ, we receive new life. A thorough examination of Leviticus 17 reveals how the sacrificial system was designed for communion with God. The goal is not destruction, but to foster relationship and preserve the value of the soul within God's plan of atonement and grace. 🧱 LIFE APPLICATIONS "As we remember the blood of Christ, we realize that every action—from washing hands and speaking with compassion, even planning schedules—can be a sacrifice of nefesh." 🔍 FURTHER REFLECTION Is there any action you take that demonstrates a disregard for the value of your nefesh ? How can we apply the preservation of the soul (caring for our well-being and that of others) to honor the statement "life is in the blood" in our world today? 👥 FOR STUDY GROUPS Discuss: How has the atonement by Jesus' blood changed our perspective on self-sacrifice and life? How can we emulate the purpose of "preserving the nefesh" in our relationships and work? 🙌 CLOSING BLESSING May the Lord remind us of the value of nefesh  through the blood of Christ; may He grant us the grace to live in new life; and may He guide us to make all actions, even the mundane, sacrifices that bring holiness and mercy. Amen. 📣 Comments & Fellowship What have you learned about life and blood today? Share with us using #BloodOfLife and let's connect in conversation. ➡️ Next Lesson: “The Peace Offering – Leviticus 18” Do we find lasting peace in Jesus' sacrifice, and do we share that peace with others?

Drawing Close to God: Visit Leviticus, Look to Jesus ❓ What happens when we despise God's holiness with the fire of our own making? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT In the midst of the ceremony of the inauguration of the priesthood, where everything was proceeding in order and splendor, we are shocked by a sudden event —the death of Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron . They died before the Lord because they entered with “strange fire” that God had not commanded (Leviticus 10:1–2). This chapter does not deal with obvious sins like adultery or murder, but with the sin of worship not directed by God —bringing fire not from God’s altar, but from their own heads. This is a terrifying story for all who seek to approach God without humility and holiness. Throughout Leviticus, sin is not just breaking the law, but breaking fellowship—taking off your shoes before holy ground and treading on it by seeking your own way. The strange fire was not just a ritual disturbance, but an attempt to establish “alternative ways” to gain grace. This was not just a religious error. It was an attempt to establish a new system of worship—without the word of the Lord. 📖 READ FIRST – LEVITICUS 10:1–20 Take time to read the entire chapter calmly. Consider: What did Nadab and Abihu do wrong? What are the responses of God, Moses, and Aaron? What lessons emerge about holiness and humility? 📚 STUDY OUTLINE FOR LETIVICUS 10 📍 STRANGE FIRE: THE SIN OF NADAB AND ABIHU (vv. 1–2) The sin of Nadab and Abihu is described as lighting “strange fire” not from God’s altar (Leviticus 16:12). The earlier laws (Exodus 30:7–9) made it clear that incense was to be burned in a prescribed manner with special fire from God himself. By violating this, they disrespected God’s presence above the ark of the covenant (Exodus 40:34–35) and thus brought swift judgment. Some say they served while drunk, which distracted them from the focus of the ministry (compare Leviticus 10:8–11). This incident shows that worship cannot be changed according to human whims but must follow God’s instructions (Numbers 3:4; 26:61). Discussion question: Are we giving off “foreign fire” in our ministries today through pride or personal ambition? 📍 GOD'S JUDGMENT AND HOLYNESS (vv. 3–7) This judgment reveals God’s holiness and calls for caution. Moses recalled God’s statement: “ Among those who approach me, I will be proved holy; in the sight of all the people I will be honored ” (Leviticus 10:3). This statement relates to incidents where people were disrespectful and were judged, such as when Miriam was struck with leprosy for opposing Moses (Numbers 12:1–10) and when Korah and his followers were swallowed up by the earth (Numbers 16:1–35). Why could such sins not be atoned for by the blood of sacrifice? Because they represented a direct affront to God’s presence and commandments, undermining the foundation of the covenant and showing willful rebellion against God’s rule. Blood sacrifices were provided for unintentional sins or human failings (Leviticus 4:1–3), but such proud and willful transgressions were considered “willful cutting off of the neck” (Numbers 15:30–31) and required direct divine judgment rather than sacrificial atonement. God’s holiness requires deep respect and humility, not superficial worship. Aaron remained silent, showing inner humility and accepting God's judgment without objection, similar to Eli's response to Samuel when he heard the word of judgment: "It is the Lord; let him do what seems good to him" (1 Samuel 3:18). Discussion question: How can we develop a humble heart that remains silent before God's judgment? 📍 THE REMEDIES OF DRUNKENNESS (vv. 8–11) After this judgment, God commanded Aaron and his sons not to drink wine or strong drink when entering the temple (Leviticus 10:8–11). This law is consistent with the High Priest’s instructions in Exodus 28:36–38, where the crown of Holiness to the Lord was to be worn at all times while clean and sober. Drunkenness implies a lack of concentration and reverence in the work of worship, a state contrary to the holiness required of priests (Numbers 6:1–3 regarding the Nazirite vow). Israel, who had been appointed to be a nation of priests (Exodus 19:5–6), were required to avoid being led by foolish desires and to live with awe and reverence for God. However, when they abandoned this calling, they failed to fulfill their responsibility: they lusted after the flesh and their desires led to rebellion (Numbers 11:4–10), they made a golden calf thinking they were worshipping God (Exodus 32:1–8), and they ignored the great commandment to love the Lord their God with all their heart (Deuteronomy 6:4–9). The nation of priests was to serve their God with the care and fear, obedience, and reverence that He deserves. Discussion question: What types of “spiritual drunkenness” can damage our ministries today? 📍 PRIESTLY DISPUTE AND GOD’S MERCY (vv. 12–20) Moses was angry because the sin offering was not eaten as it was supposed to be (Leviticus 6:19–23). Aaron, filled with sorrow over the death of his sons, explained that their hearts were not ready to partake of the sacred food of the altar. According to the law, the priests were to eat these offerings with joy and thanksgiving as a sign of communion with God and to bear the guilt of the people (Exodus 29:31–33). In his grief, Aaron felt that eating the offering would be disrespectful to God. When Moses heard this explanation, he agreed, realizing that God looks at a person’s heart more than their outward actions (compare Numbers 18:9–11 regarding the priestly food). This incident reveals that God’s mercy can be seen even in the midst of severe judgment, preferring a heart of reverence and humility over a ritualistic worship performed without true heart involvement. Discussion question: What does Moses' anger about not eating the offering reveal about the challenge between carefully observing God's commands and dealing with human weakness? 🛡️ THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONS: GOD'S GLORY SHOULD NOT BE PLAYED WITH This chapter teaches us that not all worship pleases God. Good intentions are not enough —obedience and holiness are essential. God is Holy and to be feared. Closeness to God is like the sun—giving light and life to those who approach with reverence, but also capable of burning and destroying if one approaches unprotected and in an unsanctioned way. Worship cannot invent its own way. Nadab and Abihu tried to invent their own way to approach God. It is like an astronaut trying to approach the sun without clothing to protect himself from its fire. The results were disastrous, teaching us that creativity unguided by revelation can turn light into darkness. Jesus Christ is the authorized way. Consider the incident of Nadab and Abihu who died for offering strange fire—it is a stark lesson that there is no salvation in any other way but through Jesus (John 14:6). He is the High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16; 5:1–10), who opens the door for us to approach with boldness and reverence, not with fear but with hope. The new temple in Christ. Jesus declared that his body is the new temple (John 2:19-21). These words changed the perspective: God’s holiness is no longer confined to a building, but lives within believers. We, called the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19-20), carry his presence, which adds weight and dignity to the holy lives we live every day. 🔥 LIFE APPLICATION LESSONS In an age of professional worship and spiritual entertainment, do we realize that the fire of the Lord is not to be trifled with? A good sacrifice is not just an attractive one, but one that is dedicated to God, with a broken heart. Ask yourself: Is my worship a response to the revelation of God's word or is it a reflection of my desires? Am I so tired of the true path that I am looking for another fire to rekindle? Have I learned to remain silent in the face of God's judgment like Aaron—or am I quick to defend myself? 👥 MORE QUESTIONS TO DISCUSS IN GROUPS In today's spiritual life, what could a "strange fire" be? How can we ensure that our worship is done as God wants, not to glorify ourselves? What do you learn from Aaron's silence in the face of God's judgment? Are there rituals in our society that we are familiar with but have a foreign fiery origin? 🛤️ SPIRITUAL PRACTICE OF SEARCHING FOR TRUE FIRE Sit quietly for 5 minutes today, silent before the Lord. Ask: “Oh Lord, what strange fire have I carried? Show me. Correct me.” Read Hebrews 12:28–29: “Let us worship God in a way that is acceptable to him, with reverence and awe. For our God is a consuming fire.” 🙏 FINAL PRAYER O HOLY GOD , You are exalted above all, Do not let my soul bring foreign fire before you. Light me from your altar—the fire of repentance, The fire of love, the fire of obedience. Act upon me, Lord, not in anger, but in grace. And may my worship be a sweet fragrance before you. In the name of our High Priest, Jesus Christ. Amen. ➡️ NEXT LESSON: “LEVITICUS 11 – PHYSICAL CLEANSING, SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT” Is there spiritual wisdom in the list of clean and unclean animals? How can we discern what makes us unclean before God today? 💬 FEEDBACK AND FELLOWSHIP For online discussions and sharing your insights on this study, visit our fellowship forum on facebook or right here at Maisha-Kamili.com . Post your comments, questions, and testimonies about how the message of Leviticus 10 speaks to your life today. Your participation builds faith and encourages others in their walk with God. 📚 SOURCES AND REFERENCES L. Michael Morales , Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? The argument that Leviticus 10 is a warning that the way to approach God must be the way He Himself has established. John Walton , The Lost World of Torah , a gateway to worship structures – He contextualizes the laws of the Torah as a guide to the temple and dwelling place of God, rather than just moral principles. Ellen G. White , Patriarchs and Prophets , explains the story of “Nadab and Abihu” as a spiritual warning against self-indulgence, and the importance of perfect obedience before God. Jacob Milgrom , Leviticus 1–16 (Anchor Yale Bible) – A detailed explanation of the error of Nadab and Abihu as using “strange fire” not from the altar.

Drawing Close to God: Visit Leviticus and Look to Jesus ❓Can skin spots, falling hair, or spreading sores be God’s message about the state of a person’s heart?  🪔 Introduction and Context Leviticus 13 deals with saraat (types of skin diseases). This was not a discussion of medicine alone; it was a prophetic sign of the inner state of the nation . God showed through these signs that the sin of the heart could not be hidden from Him (Jeremiah 17:9–10). Those who were seen with these signs were excluded, not because they were considered personally guilty, but because the sign would affect the purity of the entire community (Leviticus 13:45–46). Israel, a nation of priests (Exodus 19:6), was called to live in the presence of a holy God. Thus, saraat was a symbol of a heart defiled by sin and in need of true purification (Matthew 23:25–28). Isaiah made it clear: “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Isaiah 29:13). 📖 Read First: Leviticus 13 The priest was an examiner of the signs of the body rather than a medical doctor. This showed that the greater issue that needed to be addressed was spiritual and ritual rather than merely physical. Jesus, when he healed lepers and reinstated them (Luke 17:11–19), taught that God looks beyond the outward appearance and provides for the healing and restoration of an entire nation (Ezekiel 36:25–27). 📖 Study Outline for This Chapter 1. EXAMINING THE SKIN: OUTWARD SIGNS – VV. 1–8 Here we encounter a detailed examination by the priest, examining the skin marks—white, red, or spreading. This was a legal and ritual act, not just a medical one. The outward signs were considered signs of a person’s inner state and purity before God and society (Leviticus 13:1–8). This idea is connected to the message of the prophets who condemned the outward hypocrisy that hid hearts filled with wickedness (Isaiah 1:5–6; Matthew 23:27–28). In the context of all scripture, the skin signs represented the outward appearance of sin through actions and behavior, while its source was a defiled heart (Jeremiah 17:9). Jesus emphasized that true purification begins within the heart and spreads to outward actions (Mark 7:14–23). Message : God tests the inner state of the heart and also looks for signs of repentance and purity evident in daily life (Amos 4:12–13). Group Questions : What outward signs in our lives—such as words, actions, or attitudes—reveal the inner state of the heart? What steps can we take to allow Jesus to sanctify us from the inside out? 2. ISOLATION FOR COMMUNITY SAFETY – VV. 9–46 This passage refers to a person who was judged by the priest to have a discharge. He was ordered to live outside the camp, crying out: “Unclean! Unclean!” (Leviticus 13:45–46). This step was legal and medical but also prophetic: physical separation indicated spiritual separation between the individual and God and between the individual and society. Isaiah described this situation: “Your iniquities have separated you from your God” (Isaiah 59:2). Taking this step protected the community from the spread of impurity, but also allowed for repentance and healing for the affected. This is a picture of the church today: maintaining the spiritual purity of the community without sparing compassion for the wounded (Galatians 6:1–2). It also takes us back to the gospel, where Jesus came to seek and save the lost and to bring back the outcast (Luke 5:12–15). Message : When sin separates us from God, the goal is not permanent punishment but an opportunity for repentance and restoration (Ezekiel 36:25–27). Group Questions : What are the circumstances today that keep people away from church or community fellowship? How can we provide space for repentance and healing while maintaining a common spiritual purity? 3. SARAAT IN OBJECTS AND HOUSES – VV. 47–59 These laws extend the scope of examination from the human body to objects and homes. Clothes or walls of houses with signs of mold or decay were viewed as uncleanness that could spread (Leviticus 13:47–59; 14:33–53). From a prophetic perspective, this is a picture that sin and uncleanness are not limited to the individual but can affect families, jobs, institutions, and even the social system (1 Corinthians 5:6–7). Environments can bear the imprint of the spirituality of those who inhabit them. The prophet Haggai rebuked people who neglected to build the Lord’s house and ended up reaping little because of their spiritual uncleanness (Haggai 1:2–11). Similarly, our homes and our lives are called to be places of God’s presence (Joshua 24:15). Message : Spiritual impurity, if left untreated, can spread like a fungus and affect entire generations and systems of life. God calls for the purification of every aspect of our lives (2 Corinthians 7:1). Group Questions : What things in our environment—home, work, school—affect spiritual purity? How can we sanctify them and transform our everyday spaces into places of worship and testimony of God’s grace? 🛡️ Theological Reflection The Saraat was a symbol of the state of a corrupted heart, reminding us that sin is visible and brings separation from God . God’s holiness required that every impurity be removed because impurity destroys the fellowship of life (Leviticus 11–16). Christ touches and cleanses (Mark 1:40–42), promising the complete cleansing of the world (1 John 1:7; Revelation 21:5). For Further Study : Read 2 Kings 5 (Naaman), Luke 17:11–19, Ezekiel 36:25–27, and Revelation 21:27. 🔥 The Voice of Leviticus 13 Today This is the Lord's message: "I set before you a cleansing and restoration. Do not hide your filth, for I will uncover it and cleanse it. Come, let us reason together—though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow" (Isaiah 1:18). The church and the nation are called to return to God so that cities and families will not be under the filth of sin but will receive the fresh breath of the Holy Spirit. The time for the purification of hearts and homes is now. 🔥 Life Application Self-examination : Are there areas of your life that need to be touched by God's grace? Seeking Healing : Jesus is the High Priest who cleanses us and changes our hearts. A Graceful Society : The church should be a place of healing and restoration for all who seek renewal in their lives. 🙌 Blessings May the Lord give you the grace to see your inner state and run to Him for cleansing. May He touch you and bring you back into His family. May His healing overflow into your heart and into your entire life. Amen. Feedback & Partnership What areas do you feel God is looking at today? Share with others right here at Maisha-Kamili.com for prayer and discussion. ➡️  Next Study: Leviticus 14 – Purification and True Restoration How does Leviticus 14 show how God cleanses and restores those healed? Annotated Bibliography Jacob Milgrom , Leviticus 1–16 – A scholarly explanation of the laws of purification and their rationale for Israel. John Walton , The Lost World of the Torah – An explanation of the meaning of the Torah as the wisdom of the order of life. L. Michael Morales , Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? – The relationship between the temple, sacrifice, and the presence of God. Ellen G. White , Patriarchs and Prophets – A spiritual explanation of the sanctification system and the work of Christ to fulfill it all.

Drawing Close to God: Visit the Leviticus, Look to Christ ❓ Have you ever felt that your life, even though you have healed physically or changed behaviorally, is still not spiritually complete? How can you freely approach God and his people again? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT This chapter is a continuation of Leviticus 13 concerning the examination of skin disease. But now the recovered patient was not only recognized by the eyes; he needed a process of spiritual and social purification. Here we see that God does not only deal with the disease but also heals and restores the person's whole being in society and before Him . In Hebrew, words like hyssop (hisop) symbolize purification and are also used in Exodus 12:22 and Psalm 51:7. Similarly, two birds (birds of the field) symbolize life and freedom, while anointing oil (shemen hammishchah) carries the meaning of being set apart for God. In a broader sense, this sanctification symbolizes the journey of every believer: from defilement to reintegration into the community and presence of God. Leviticus 14 is a bridge from healing to restoration : not only is the health of the skin restored, but also the heart, family, and worship life are reconnected. 📖 READ FIRST: LEVITICUS 14 Look at the three main steps: The examination and the offering of the bird (vv. 1–7) Cleansing of the body and hair (vv. 8–9) The offerings on the altar and the anointing with blood and oil (vv. 10–32), as well as the infected houses (vv. 33–57). 📖 STRUCTURE OF THE LESSON OF THIS CHAPTER 1. Purification of Body and Soul – Vv. 1–9 Here we see how a person who was unclean with a skin disease was not allowed to return home immediately, but was brought before the priest outside the camp. This is a picture of the journey of salvation: a person who had been far from God’s presence is now brought back into His grace. The purification involves two birds, running water, scarlet thread, and hyssop—all things that carry the symbols of the covenant and purification. One bird is killed and the other is released, an event that represents death and resurrection, a reality that is fulfilled in Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again to give us eternal life (Romans 6:4). Hyssop, used to symbolize purification in Exodus 12:22 and Psalm 51:7, teaches us that true purification is God’s work that makes us spiritually clean. After this ceremony the sick person bathed, shaved, and washed his clothes, a symbol of starting over again, returning to the community and presence of God as a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). 2. Being Set Free for New Partnerships – Vv. 10–20 On the eighth day, after a period of waiting and observing for signs of disease, the cleansed patient proceeded with the special offerings: the guilt offering, the sin offering, and the burnt offering. The priest applied the blood of the guilt offering to the right ear, the thumb of the right hand, and the big toe of the right foot, and then applied anointing oil to the same areas. This has the spiritual meaning that the person is now free to hear the word of God (ear), do good works (hand), and walk in His ways (foot). The anointing oil represents the presence of God’s Spirit empowering him to live a new life of witness and holiness. This is a picture of approaching God through the cleansing blood of Christ and the oil of the Holy Spirit sustaining the believer in the journey of faith (Hebrews 10:19-22). It is a picture of a person restored socially and spiritually, returning to work, home, and community with a new commitment to live faithfully before God. 3. House Cleansing – Vv. 33–57 The law of purification did not only apply to individuals but also to their homes. A house with signs of mold or decay was examined by a priest, ordered to be washed, the affected stones removed, and if the damage continued, completely demolished. This is a prophetic teaching that God cares about the environment in which we live and that physical defilement also represents spiritual defilement. A house being washed or demolished symbolizes that God decides to completely remove the source of the defilement, and bring in a new, clean home. In Christ, not only our hearts but also the entire world is to be cleansed and renewed (Revelation 21:5). The purification of the home teaches us to abandon sins and practices that can affect the entire family and community, allowing Christ to make his home in our lives and in all areas of our lives (Ephesians 3:16-17).--- 🛡️ THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONS The God who restores: From disease to community, from sin to justice. The sacrifice of the bird: Death and freedom – Christ died (the slain bird) and rose again (the freed bird) so that we might be set free (Hebrews 9:13–14). Blood and oil: The blood of Christ cleanses, the oil of the Spirit strengthens. A clean home: God is not only within hearts but also in the spaces we live in and the communities we create. A picture of the new creation: The end of the Bible promises a new creation without defilement or pain (Revelation 21–22). 🔥 APPLICATION OF LEVITICUS 14 IN LIFE Testimony: After being healed (physically, spiritually, emotionally), do you return to a normal life without involving God? Fellowship: Restoration is a return to community. Are you creating a clean spiritual environment at home and at work? Body and Soul: Cleanse not only your habits but also the environment that influences you – music, friends, social media. 🛤 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES Do redemptive repentance : ask Christ to cleanse you and renew you with His Spirit. Clean your environment (home, phone, networks) as a sign of purifying your heart. Reconnect with the community of believers without fear or shame. 🙏 CONCLUDING PRAYER O God of purification and restoration, who gives us new life, purify our hearts and our surroundings. Set us free like a bird released into the sky, living by listening to your voice, acting with clean hands and walking with peaceful feet. Amen. 👥 COMMENTS AND DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Have you ever witnessed a recovery after a fall? Is there a “house” in your life that needs spiritual cleansing? What steps can you take to spiritually cleanse your daily environment? Join us on maisha-kamili.com for discussion and questions. ➡ NEXT LESSON: LEVITICUS 15 – BODY, WATER AND PURITY OF THE HEART What is the relationship between physical purity and purity of heart in the journey of faith? Annotated Bibliography Jacob Milgrom, Leviticus 1–16: Anchor Yale Bible Commentary – Provides a detailed analysis of the system of purification and sacrifice, explaining the importance of personal and household purification in Israel’s worship system. John Walton, The Lost World of the Torah – Explains how the Torah functions as covenant wisdom, and not just legal rules, and how it aims to maintain the order of God's covenant with his people. Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets – She presents the arrangement of sacrifice and sanctification as a shadow of Christ’s work of sanctification and restoration of humanity. L. Michael Morales, Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? – Connects temple worship with the presence of God, showing how sanctification is about a journey of drawing closer to God Himself.

Drawing Close to God: Visit Leviticus, Discover Jesus Is there spiritual wisdom in the list of clean and unclean animals? How can we discern what makes us unclean before God today? 🪔 INTRODUCTION AND CONTEXT Leviticus 11 is not just about types of food. It is a chapter that builds the identity of Israel as a covenant people, called to be different, living a life of holiness before God. Every meal was a reminder that they were God’s people, set apart for a life of holiness and respect for life. This is directly related to the idea of God’s holiness . God’s holiness is not an abstract attribute but his fundamental nature that governs every aspect of creation and his covenant with Israel. Qadosh (holy) means being set apart and given special honor by God, but also an invitation to be set apart for God. This means seeking the order, perfection, and life that comes from him. The closer a person draws to God, the more he shares in his life and order (Genesis 1:1–2:3; Leviticus 11:44). God’s covenant with Israel functions as a “royal contract” in which God says: “I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God” (Exodus 6:7). This is why Israel was given a special status and was encouraged to live in imitation of God’s own character ( imitatio Dei ). Their holiness was reflected in everyday life—even at the table—to reveal the beauty of God’s order and to bear witness to his presence. 📖 Read First: Leviticus 11 Consider the list of clean and unclean animals, along with the instructions for touching carcasses and their consequences. Ask: Why did God make this distinction? And how does it relate to the call to holiness in verses 44–45: “Be holy, for I am holy” ? 📖 STUDY STRUCTURE FOR THIS CHAPTER 📘 ISRAEL IS SET APART – VERSES 1–23 The dietary laws were related to Israel’s identity as God’s people. They reminded them daily that they belonged to Him and were to live separately from the surrounding nations. Each plate of food was a covenant symbol and a call to imitate God’s character and avoid moral and ritual confusion. SEPARATION AND HOLYNESS (IMITATIO DEI) The main reason for these laws was holiness ( qadosh ). The Bible repeatedly emphasizes: “Be holy… for I am holy” (Leviticus 11:44). This call is understood as imitatio Dei —reflecting the image of God himself. By keeping these laws, Israel was reminded daily at the table that they should separate themselves from the nations, with God emphasizing to them: “I am holy; you also must be holy. I am set apart; you also must separate yourselves to me.” HOLYNESS AS A PATH TO LIFE As Morales says (p. 30), although Leviticus strongly emphasizes holiness, it is not an end in itself, but rather a means to achieve “a life of abundant joy with God in the house of God.” The level of holiness in the Tabernacle is the level of life, and the Holy of Holies represented “the fullness of life.” Thus, the laws of holiness are an invitation to enter into a life of fellowship with the living God. 📘 PRINCIPLE OF RESPECT FOR LIFE – MIST. 24–40 These laws dictate how to deal with the carcasses of unclean animals and the procedures for purification after touching them. The main purpose was not only to avoid physical contamination, but to remind Israel that death and destruction are the consequences of sin, and when they become unclean, they require purification before they can be restored to a state of purity. A Deep Message About Life and Holiness In the broader context of Leviticus, these are teachings about seeking holiness and communion with God, the source of life. Touching dead bodies was not a sin in itself, but a symbol of how death is opposed to the perfection of the living God, thus requiring purification rituals. Protecting God's Presence Among People These laws ensured that God’s tabernacle (the tent of meeting) was not defiled, as emphasized in Leviticus 15:31 and Numbers 19:13. An example of this was a person who touched a dead body and failed to bathe or wash his clothes; he would be considered unclean until evening and could not enter the tabernacle until he was cleansed. This regular cleansing taught the people that God’s presence was precious and holy, requiring a clean environment, similar to how we protect sacred places today by ensuring physical and spiritual cleanliness before approaching places of worship (Psalm 24:3–4). Ritual Defilement and the Protective Fence Ritual impurity required purification but was not considered the same as moral sin. However, there is a meaningful parallel between impurity and sin in that both require purification (Leviticus 11:24-28; 1 John 1:9). These laws are covenant wisdom, safeguarding the covenant order and reminding us that Israel is in the “holy garden” of God’s presence. Each act of purification was like a “fence” of caution against the filth of the fallen world, and preparing the way back to life and abundant fellowship with God. 📘 THE CALL TO BE SET APART FOR GOD – MIST. 41–45 The closing of this chapter conveys a message: being set apart does not mean discrimination but living in the image of God himself. Their holiness was a way to approach the holy God and live in covenant wisdom. 🧱 LEVITICUS 11 FOR TODAY Jesus and the Cleansing Program Jesus and his apostles showed a new perspective on true purity: Purity of heart: “That which defiles a man proceedeth out of the heart” (Mark 7:20–23). God purifies believers: Peter was revealed that God had purified every creature that believes (Acts 10:9–16), and Jesus Himself said of His disciples who believed in Him: “You are already clean because of the word that I have spoken to you” (John 15:3). God separates believers from unbelievers: The Israelites did not mix with the Canaanites because of their unclean idolatry and immoral conduct (Leviticus 18:24–30). Similarly, believers today are warned not to mix with idolaters or fornicators, being urged to separate themselves from sinful conduct in order to maintain purity of heart (1 Corinthians 5:9–11; 2 Corinthians 6:14–17). Believers should not discriminate at the table: By the blood of Jesus, believing Jews and Gentiles have been united, the wall of hostility has been broken down, and peace has been brought about (Ephesians 2:13–16). Believers are also warned to refuse to discriminate at the Messiah’s feast because of food, “Let no one judge you in food or drink” (Romans 14:3; Colossians 2:16). Purity Challenges Today Today, the challenges of cleanliness are more spiritual and ethical than food on the table: Modern idolatries —such as relying on wealth, fame, or dark powers—can bring about spiritual defilements similar to those of old. When the fear of death can cause us to lose hope and stop trusting God, it demonstrates the destruction caused by sin (Romans 6:23). The Call of a Pure Heart The main question: Are we nurturing hatred, greed, selfishness or injustice? What do we allow to rule our hearts—false gods or the hope of eternal life in Christ? Conclusion: True holiness begins within and is manifested in words, actions, and decisions that reflect the holiness of God. 🔍 THINK MORE Are there things in your life that make you feel “unclean” before God? What might they be? What steps can you take to live spiritually wise and be “clean” before God? 👥 FOR STUDY GROUPS Discuss: What does “holiness” mean in the daily life of a Christian? What is the difference between keeping the law outwardly and living by the inner wisdom of the Spirit? 🙌 BLESSING TO CLOSING THE STUDY May the Lord teach you to see life as His sacred gift. May He help you to set your life apart for Him, to avoid impurity of heart and life, and to hold you close to His love and grace. Amen. 📣 COMMENTS & PARTNERSHIP What did you learn today about spiritual wisdom in Leviticus 11? Share your thoughts with us below. 📚 SOURCES AND REFERENCES Jacob Milgrom , Leviticus 1–16; 17–22 (Anchor Yale Bible) – explains that the dietary laws are related to respect for life and the call to holiness. John H. Walton , The Lost World of the Torah – says the Torah is covenant wisdom, not just a system of laws. L. Michael Morales , Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord? – shows holiness as an invitation to life in the presence of God. Bible , Leviticus 11; Mark 7:20–23; Acts 10:9–16 – key scriptures that show the transition from physical purity to mental purity. ➡️ NEXT LESSON: “PARENTHOOD AND HOLYNESS – LEVITICUS 12” Can the process of childbirth be part of a spiritual journey of purification?