><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 17 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= There are two main instructions in this portion: First, that all domestic animals which are to be killed shall be brought to the Tabernacle (v3-9); and second, that no blood must be eaten(v10-16) The former of these instructions points to a time when animals were not killed except in connection with worship of some kind. 1) What would this first instruction (v3-9) teach Israel about God? Where is it suggested in these verses that this instruction is directed against idolatrous worship? 2) Why was the eating of blood so strictly forbidden? See v11 in particular. What is the significance of this for us? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 17 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- One reason for restricting sacrifices to the central sanctuary was to prevent the Israelites from the pagan influences of the Canaanites (NIV Study Bible). The blood is the life of an animal - it shows how precious the blood of Jesus is as a sacrifice for us. Truly, there are many special and specific components to the blood. Heb 9:22 says, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness" Hallelujah for our redemption through Jesus' blood! -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Chapter 17 Blood for Atonement Now, we come to the last stage of Leviticus - The Law of Holiness. Chapter 1 - 7 covers the ritual of sacrifice; 8 - 10 is the investiture of the priests; 11 - 16 are the rules concerning the clean and unclean. After the atonement of sin was offered, the scapegoat bore the sin and the high priest came out of the Holy of Holies; people shout for joy because their sins were forgiven. At this time, the other goat was sent away - sin goes back to its origin. People start to live a new holy life based on the instruction given in Chapter 17 - 27. The first instruction, Chapter 17, is do not drink blood "For as for the life of all flesh, its blood is identified with its life. Therefore I said to the sons of Israel, 'You are not to eat the blodd of any flesh, for the life of all flesh is its blood; whoever eats it shall be cut off.'" 17:14. God brought forth living creatures AFTER THEIR KIND, Gen. 1:24. Therefore, we do not drink blood of animals to mix with their kinds. However, we do drink the blood of Jesus as He instructed us. So we have a divine life. In the Old Testament time when high priest came out of the Holy of Holies was a proof that God accepted his offering for himself and his people. Today, just one day after "Easter (in Chinese, it is called resurrection day)", our proof is that God resurrected Jesus. And the most precious part of New Testament life is He Lives In Me. He walks with me and talks with me ALONG LIFE'S NARROW WAY. You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart. Brother Alfred, Mr. Ackley - a Jew, the author and composer of this hymn, wrote this hymn to answer his friend's question about the resurrection of Jesus. Eventually, his friend was saved. May we introduce this hymn to our friends and bring them to the Lord. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) The first instruction was that all domestic animals which were killed were to be brought to the Tabernacle. This was so that the blood would not be sacrificed to other gods. It was very common practice to sacrifice to goat demons, popular pagan idols. This indicated God's jealous nature - it reinforces the first commandment. In v7 it is suggested that the idolatrous behaviour was the cause for this instruction. 2) Blood was life. Hebrews tells us without the shedding of blood there is no remission. v11 Tells us that the life of the flesh is in the blood. It also tells us the second reason for not eating the blood. The blood was to be for atonement. Gen 9:3-6 3 "Every moving thing that is alive shall be food for you; I give all to you, as I gave the green plant. 4 "Only you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood. 5 "Surely I will require your lifeblood; from every beast I will require it. And from every man, from every man's brother I will require the life of man. 6 "Whoever sheds man's blood, By man his blood shall be shed, For in the image of God He made man. Heb 9:22 22 And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. Nothing but the Blood of Jesus - Robert Lowrey What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow That make me white as snow; No other fount I know, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 18 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= In chapters 18-20 we pass from the worship of the people to their behaviour. Chapter 18 prohibits unlawful marriage, unchastity, and Molech worship; but the last is dealt with more fully in 20:2-5. 1) WHat reasons are given for Israel's obedience to these laws and how important is this obedience? See vs1-5 and 24-30. 2) What light is thrown by this chapter upon God's command for the extermination of the Canaanites? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 18 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- The laws regarding sexual relations are very specific; they leave no room for interpretation. God expects godly behavior from His people. V 30, "Keep my commandments and do NOT follow any of the DETESTABLE customs that were practiced BEFORE you came and DO NOT DEFILE YOURSELVES WITH THEM. I am the LORD YOUR GOD." The NT gives a new message, Romans 12:2, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." Just as the Israelites were called out of their old ways, so we are too - walk in the light, as He is in the light. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 18 Laws on Immoral Relations The illegal sexual relations mentioned in this chapter were practiced in those days among Israelites and the ones around them - Canannites and Egyptians. Case Study - Gen. 29 - 30 vs. Lev. 18:18 In Leviticus 18:18 - "--- you shall not marry a woman in addition to her sister as a rival while she is alive to uncover her nakedness." In Genesis 29-30, Jacob asked for Rachel to be his wife and Laban gave Leah to J. first and allowed him to have R. later. The case ended up J. had Leah, Zilpah, Rachel and Bilhab as his wives. We all agree that it is God's plan to have twelve tribes out of Jacob. However, this plan seems in conflict with Lev. 18:18. It shows that God's plan does not necessarily get executed by the instruction He tells us to do. Lev. 18:5 - "So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the Lord." Habakkuk 2:4 - " ----- the just shall live by faith." This the key message of Habakkuk. God's Word is His judgment. We live to obey His Word because we have faith that He will judge us rightly. Then, "--- I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.' Hab. 3:18. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Verses 5 and 28 tell us the reason the Israelites needed to keep the statutes. 5 'So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the LORD. 28 so that the land will not spew you out, should you defile it, as it has spewed out the nation which has been before you. The key here was not just the aspect of following the statute, but the aspect of obedience to God. Doing something is not good enough, not if our heart is not there. God wants our hearts, not just our lipservice or religion. He desires a personal relationship with us, not based on fear, but on love. 2) God again in this chapter shows the reason for His commands to exterminate those inhabitants of the land. The Israelites kept missing the point. One bad egg will spoil the bunch. By allowing the inhabitants of the land to remain, and even so far as intermarrying with them and associating with their customs and rituals, the Israelites were defiling themselves. May we, in our dealings with our own personal Canaan not allow the ways and customs of the land to affect our relationship with God that we be "spewed out of the land..." ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 19-20 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) What particular attribute of God receives emphasis in these chapters as a ground of obedience to His commands? Cf 1 Pet 1:14-17. 2) Which one of the ten commandments do these laws elaborate? What significant summary of the law of God is to be found here? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 19-20 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- V2b, "..Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy." 20:26, "You are to be holy to me...and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own." Stealing, lying, and idolatry are again reviewed here, as in other places. It simply says "Do not" do these. There is no punishment named with them, like some of the other laws. These are just things that God's holy people should not do. Likewise, today, as the temple of Christ, we should not participate in activities which do not glorify God. May we seek to pray more diligently for help in our areas of weakness, for He is faithful. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 19 and 20 The Holy Ones - The Distinguished Ones - The Saints 19:2 - " ----, 'You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy. ---." 20:26 - "Thus you are to be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy; and I have set you apart from the peoples to be Mine." Exodus 33: 15-23 "Then he (Moses) said to Him, 'If Thy presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. For how then can it be known that I have found favor in Thy sight, I and Thy people? Is it not by Thy going with us, so that we, I and Thy people, may be DISTINGUISHED from all the other people Who are upon the face of the earth? -------." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) God's holiness is emphasized in these chapters. Our charge to holiness is given in the New Testament in 1 Peter 1:14-17 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, 15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 16 because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY." 17 If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; 2) These laws elaborate several commandments. They reiterate the ones concerning stealing, lying, and idolatry. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you is the primary summary of these commandments. Once again in 20:26 we are reminded in closing of this section: 'Thus you are to be holy to Me for I the Lord am holy; and I have set you apart from the peoples to be Mine.' ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 21-22 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) What words and expressions occur frequently, giving the reason why these instructions are imposed? List some ways in which we ought to be showing similar concern. 2) What can we learn here about the serious effects on our CHristian lives of things which are apparently small, but spiritually unclean? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 21-22 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- THe priests had a special role of holiness and responsibility. Holiness and perfection were required of sacrifices to the Lord. The way we think of God must be as HOLY, HOLY, HOLY. v 32 "Do not profane my holy name. I must be acknowledged as holy by the Israelites. I am the Lord, who makes you holy..." We should think carefully before saying the Lord's name. Is it said in an attitude of reverence and honor? May we pray for the Lord to tame our tongues and attitudes, to be controlled by His Spirit. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 21 The Holiness of the Priesthood The marriage of the priest - They shall not take a woman who is profaned by harlotry, nor shall they take a woman divorced from her husband; for he is holy to his God, 21:7. The marriage of the high priest - A widow, or a divorced woman, or one who is profaned by harlotry, these he may not take; but rather he is to marry a virgin of his own people; 21:14. A high priest can not have a gentile wife. The physical perfection of a priest - No man of your offspring throughout their generations who has a defect shall approach to offer the bread of his God. 21:17. Leviticus 22 Holiness in Offering sacrifices. 22:1-9 - No unclean priest should consuming the sacred meal. 22:10-16 - No lay, not belong to the priest should take the sacred fool; 22:20 - Whatever has a defect, you shall not offer, for it will not be accepted for you. God demands the best from us because He gave His best, no blemish, to us. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) The ideas of 'not defile', 'holy', and sanctification are brought to light in this portion. We too need to keep ourselves clean before God that we may serve Him in a worthy manner. It is the same reason that the warning is given before communion that we should not take it in an unworthy manner. Because the ritual is so sacred and holy, we should not defile it by taking it in an unworthy manner. 2) From the priests examples of uncleanness given in chapter 22, we see that even a little bit of uncleanness could cut them off from full service. We serve a perfect God, who demands our cleanness and purity of our offering. When even a small portion is unclean, it spoils the entire being. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 21-22 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) What words and expressions occur frequently, giving the reason why these instructions are imposed? List some ways in which we ought to be showing similar concern. 2) What can we learn here about the serious effects on our CHristian lives of things which are apparently small, but spiritually unclean? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 21-22 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- THe priests had a special role of holiness and responsibility. Holiness and perfection were required of sacrifices to the Lord. The way we think of God must be as HOLY, HOLY, HOLY. v 32 "Do not profane my holy name. I must be acknowledged as holy by the Israelites. I am the Lord, who makes you holy..." We should think carefully before saying the Lord's name. Is it said in an attitude of reverence and honor? May we pray for the Lord to tame our tongues and attitudes, to be controlled by His Spirit. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 21 The Holiness of the Priesthood The marriage of the priest - They shall not take a woman who is profaned by harlotry, nor shall they take a woman divorced from her husband; for he is holy to his God, 21:7. The marriage of the high priest - A widow, or a divorced woman, or one who is profaned by harlotry, these he may not take; but rather he is to marry a virgin of his own people; 21:14. A high priest can not have a gentile wife. The physical perfection of a priest - No man of your offspring throughout their generations who has a defect shall approach to offer the bread of his God. 21:17. Leviticus 22 Holiness in Offering sacrifices. 22:1-9 - No unclean priest should consuming the sacred meal. 22:10-16 - No lay, not belong to the priest should take the sacred fool; 22:20 - Whatever has a defect, you shall not offer, for it will not be accepted for you. God demands the best from us because He gave His best, no blemish, to us. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) The ideas of 'not defile', 'holy', and sanctification are brought to light in this portion. We too need to keep ourselves clean before God that we may serve Him in a worthy manner. It is the same reason that the warning is given before communion that we should not take it in an unworthy manner. Because the ritual is so sacred and holy, we should not defile it by taking it in an unworthy manner. 2) From the priests examples of uncleanness given in chapter 22, we see that even a little bit of uncleanness could cut them off from full service. We serve a perfect God, who demands our cleanness and purity of our offering. When even a small portion is unclean, it spoils the entire being. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 23 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) List the feasts and note the general character of each. What did they in Common? And what were their differences? 2) What are the New Testament parallels to the three main feasts and what is the significance of each? (a) The Passover. Cf I Cor.5:7-8 b) The Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost. Cf Acts 2: 1-4. (c) The Feast of Tabernacles, the final ingathering of the harvest. Cf Rev. 7:9,10. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 23 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- The Sabbath was for people and animals to rest, and occurred on the 7th day (Sunday for us). The Feast of Weeks was Pentecost and Harvest, representing a joyous celebration. There were required and "love" offerings, and firstfruits were to be harvested. It was to show thanksgiving for the Lord's bountiful provision. The Feast of Trumpets was later Rosh Hashanah-New Year's Day. Trumpet blasts and sacrifices marked this celebration to present Israel before God for his blessing. The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) was for rest, fasting and sacrifice for priests' and peoples' atonement. Finally, the Feast of Tabernacles (Booths and Ingathering) was a week of celebration. The Israelites lived in booths and offered sacrifices - it was in remembrance of the exodus and celebrated the abundance of Canaan. (NIV Study Bible) -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 23 Laws of Religious Festivals The Feast of the Sabbath, 23: 1-3: It is a day to worship that God is our creator, Gen. 2:2-3. The Feast of the Passover, 23:4-5: God spared the lives of Israelites firstborn in Egypt and freed the Hebrews from slavery. The Feast reminds them of coming out of the world and worshipping Him. However, Christians celebrate and worship Him on the resurrection day of Jesus. The Feast of First Fruits, 23:4-14: The first crops of the barley harvest. Remembers that God provided for them. The Feast of Unleavened Bread (7 days) 23:15-22: The Exodus from Egypt and entering into a new way of living. The Feast of Pentecost (one day, at the end of the barley harvest), 23:15-22: Showed joy and thanksgiving over the bountiful harvest. This is the feast observed on the fifty days after the Feast of the First Fruit (H. C. Mears) - It was also fifty days after Christ's resurrection that the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples and the Church was born. The feast of Trumpets, 23:23-25: Jewish New Year's day, the beginning of the seventh month of their calendar, by October. It points forward the future gathering of the dispersed people of Israel (Zechariah 14). The Day of Atonement, 23:26-32: The removal of sin from the people and the nation to restore the fellowship with God. Refer to Leviticus 16 for details. The feast of Tabernacles, 23:23-43: It is a seven days feast to remind them about God's protection and guidance in the wilderness. The people lived in booths out-of-doors and heard the reading of the Law. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Festivals of Israel(Ryrie Study Bible) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name Purpose ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sabbath A holy day of rest, celebrating God's creation rest. Passover&Unleavened Celebrates God's deliverance of Israel from slavery Bread in Egypt Unleavened Bread Dedication to God of the firstfruits(best portion) of the earliest(barley) crop First Fruits Praise to God for the harvest and dedication of the firstfruits portion of the harvest(wheat) Weeks(Pentecost) Fifty Days after Firstfruits Trumpets Celebrating the beginning of the civil new year. (Rosh Hashahnah) Day of Atonement Atonement for the sins of the entire nation (Yom Kippur) Booths(Tabernacle) Celebrating God's deliverance from Egypt and provisions throughout the wilderness wanderings. Each of these festivals or feasts had an offering to God of some sort. This indicates to us that when we celebrate things in our lives, we need to take time to remember who to really thank in all that we do and all that happens in our lives...God. 2) The New Testament parallels are: 1) Communion - Passover I Cor.5:7-8 7 ¶ Clean out the old leaven so that you may be a new lump, just as you are in fact unleavened. For Christ our Passover also has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 2) Pentecost - the Feast of Weeks Acts 2: 1-4 1 ¶ When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance. 3) The Day of Judgment - Feast of Tabernacles. Rev. 7:9,10 9 After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; 10 and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 24 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) Consider the significance of the words 'pure' and 'continually' which recur in verses 1-9. Apply these words to your own worship and Christian service. 2) What attributes of God's character are set side by side in this chapter? Cf Heb. 10:19-31. What constraint should such awareness put upon us? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 24 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- THe words "pure" and "continually" represent the intensity and purity of the Israelites' lives before the Lord, in my opinion. Purity is separating yourself from the evil of the world, and intensity is seen in being unswervingly devoted to Him. The fruit of a pure and intense walk with Christ should be a "shining light" of a witness. As Christians, we should practice our faith in a bold manner because we glorify HIM and not ourselves, II Cor 4:6, "For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ." The seriousness of sin is seen in the "eye for eye, tooth for tooth" passage. Restitution was required for injustice; however, we must be careful not to take this passage out of context today and use it as a license to take revenge. Revenge is not a Biblical practice. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 24 A Case of Blasphemy, 24:10-23 An Egyptian man whose mother was an Israelite, Shelomith of the Tribe of Dan. The man was brought to Moses because of he blasphemed the God of Israel. He was stoned to death. "In this way the sons of Israel carried out the order of Jehovah." 24:23. Each time when God gave His people a major instruction; God showed His sovereignty. It happened when Moses came down from Mountain Sinai when he saw people worshipping the gold calf; the result was that 3,000 men dead. It also happened when Ananias and Sapphira, lied to the Holy Spirit, Acts 5. Here is the teaching of do not blaspheme God. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Purity symbolizes 100%, the whole portion, an entire thing being composed of an element. The word continually implies an ongoing process, something that can never be ended. In our Christian service, we need to keep ourselves pure continually. This implies that we are 100% all the time. This is an easy statment to make, but so hard to carry through on. May God grant each one of us grace to be walking pure continually with Him. 2) In this chapter we see God's grace and His judgement set side by side. Heb 10:29-31 29 How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know Him who said, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY." And again, "THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE." 31 It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. May this awareness prod us towards walking holy and pure lives before Him. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 25 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) How was the year of jubilee reckoned, and what was its general purpose? Are there any corresponding spiritual blessings in Christ? And how may we enjoy them? Cf Gal 2:4;5:1,13. 2) What light is shed in this chapter on the principles governing our relationship to God and to one another in Christ? See esp. vs 17,23,34,36,38,42,43,55. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 25 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- The people of God are to rest - it is His way. The Year of Jubilee also represents a time of return to one's own property, redemption of land, helping countrymen, being lenient toward poor countrymen and showing them compassion. I find the idea of redemption especially profound, as Jesus, in the NT, is our Great Redeemer. Jesus paid it all - all to Him I owe - He brought a lifetime of Jubilee between God and myself. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 25 The Year of Jubilee "You shall thus consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim a release through the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you, and each of you shall return to his own property And each of you shall return to his family. -------- So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God, for I am the Lord your God. You shall thus observe My statutes And keep My judgments, So as to carry them out, that you may live securely on the land." Lev. 25:10-17,18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel. To the poor, He has sent Me to proclaim Release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are downtrodden, To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." Luke 4:18-19; Isaiah 61:1-2 -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) The year of Jubilee was celebrated every 50th year. It was a freedom year. All slaves were returned, and land was returned to its original owner. No sowing or reaping was to be done in the jubilee year. It represents freedom in God and trusting God to provide. Gal 5:1,13 1 ¶ It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. 13 ¶ For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. This is the same message to us as New Testament Christians as was given to the OT Israelites. Serve one another in love because of the freedom in Christ. 2) This chapter shows us the ties between our relationship to God and our relationships with one another. 17 'So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God. 18 'You shall thus observe My statutes and keep My judgments, so as to carry them out, that you may live securely on the land. 23 ¶ 'The land, moreover, shall not be sold permanently, for the land is Mine; for you are but aliens and sojourners with Me. 34 'But pasture fields of their cities shall not be sold, for that is their perpetual possession. 36 'Do not take usurious interest from him, but revere your God, that your countryman may live with you. 38 'I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt to give you the land of Canaan and to be your God. 42 'For they are My servants whom I brought out from the land of Egypt; they are not to be sold in a slave sale. 43 'You shall not rule over him with severity, but are to revere your God. 55 'For the sons of Israel are My servants; they are My servants whom I brought out from the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God. May we serve one another in love remembering that we are the sons of Christ His servants; we are His servants whom He has chosen out of the world. He is the LORD our God! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 26 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) What spiritual blessings are promised to obedient Christians, corresponding to these promised here to an obedient Israel? 2) What are the reasons for punishment and the conditions for restoration given here? How do these apply in the Christian life? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 26 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- Rewards were for not worshipping or making idols, observe Sabbaths and having reverence for the sanctuary, follows the laws and decrees of the Lord. The rewards were rain, crops and trees yielding fruit, living in safety, peace in the land without fear of anyone, victory over enemies, and the Lord would keep His covenant with Israel. There was also punishment for not following commands - wasting diseases, sudden terror, fruitless planting. Pride is especially warned against. However, the Lord is merciful and compassionate, and gives second chances (v40-45). One thing I think we should remember today is that just because someone is suffering difficulties does not necessarily mean that they are being punished for sin. May we seek to comfort others in need of encouragement and so shine for the Lord. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 26 Blessings and Judgments Leviticus set the rules for sinners to approach and worship God. Now we reach the conclusion of the Book for blessings and judgments based on obedience and disobedience. THE CONDITIONAL BLESSINGS Give them regular rains; Give them land that would yield bumper crops; Give them trees loaded with fruit; Give them vineyards with abundant yield; Give them abundant food; Give them peace; Give them freedom from fear; Rid them of dangerous animals; Protect their land; The ability to chase their enemies; Cause enemies to perish by the sword; Cause their small unit to defeat a large unit; Give them a race that multiplies; Give them a surplus of crops; Give them honor and respect; Walk among his people; Allow them to walk in dignity; Be their God Have them become His people; Establish His covenant with them. FIVE GREAT JUDGMENTS FOR DISOBEDIENCE Physical destruction by disease and war; Lack of productive harvest from their land; Increase of wild destructive animals; War,famine and pestilence; Complete national destruction and dispersion among the nations. [Salem Kirban Reference Bible] What would you do? Obey or disobey? -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Obedience is rewarded by God with great blessings of peace, God's provision for physical needs, safety, and respect. """John 3:36 "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."""" This implies that belief in God is obedience to Him. If we truly BELIEVE in Him, we believe that He WILL provide for our shelter, our sustenance(food and water), our rainment(clothing), and take care of our physical needs. We will not worry about money, or our careers but put those into His more than capable hands. """Luke 12:22 ¶ And He said to His disciples, "For this reason I say to you, do not worry about your life, as to what you will eat; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. 23 "For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 "Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap; they have no storeroom nor barn, and yet God feeds them; how much more valuable you are than the birds! 25 "And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life's span? 26 "If then you cannot do even a very little thing, why do you worry about other matters? 27 "Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; but I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. 28 "But if God so clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you? You men of little faith! 29 "And do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. 30 "For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. 31 "But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you. """ """Acts 5:29,32 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men. 32 "And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him."""" Jesus promised He would never leave us nor forsake us. The Holy Spirit is the fulfillment of that promise - to those who believe and obey Him. He is our comfort in times of need. 2) The reasons for punishment are disobedience, NOT keeping God as their focus and obeying Him. The sentence for disobedience is Judgement. """Romans 6:16 Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness?""" Choose you this day - """Joshua 24:15 ¶ "If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."""" Each one of us must make the choice, EVERY day whom we will serve and obey, God - or ourselves / our own idols in our lives(money, power, status, position). May each of us choose as Joshua did for himself and his household. WE WILL SERVE THE LORD! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (Leviticus) CHAPTER 27 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) What can be redeemed and what cannot be redeemed? What does this teach us about the seriousness of vows made to God? Is there any exception to the statement in verse 29? Cf Ps. 49:7-9,15;Mk 10:45. 2) What does this chapter show of the Lord's character? What does He require in His people? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (Leviticus) Chapter 27 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- A vow must be made with full intention to carry it out. Once dedicated, a sacrifice cannot be exchanged for another (e.g. sheep). Also, there was specific criteria for offering animals. v28, "But nothing that a man owns and devotes to the Lord - whether man or animal or family land - may be sold or redeemed; everything so devoted is most holy to the Lord." When I consider this no "tradeback" giving, I think of when couples dedicate their babies to the Lord in church. May we also lay our lives on the altar in dedication to Him. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- Leviticus 27 Dedicating, Devoting and Tithing The action of worshipping is not expressed in praising only. God demands action to match our appreciation for the salvation He has given us. It is a way God measures our faith. Among these requirements, tithing is easier than dedicating and devoting my life to God. Tithing usually increases with age; but dedicating and devoting the value of life decreases as the years go by. Ecclesiastes 12:1-14 "Remember also your Creator IN THE DAYS OF YOUR YOUTH, Before the evil days come and the years draw near When you will say 'I have no delight in them' ------------. 13 The conclusion, when all has been heard, is FEAR GOD AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, Because this applies to every person. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil." These are the words that the Lord inspired a wise king, Solomon, abased himself as a "preacher" to teach us the wisdom of God. Beautiful Words, Wonderful Words, Wonderful Words of Life! --------------- Amen -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) In this chapter we see the concept of redemption brought to light. In the OT, Unclean animals could not be redeemed, persons could be redeemed, houses could be given to the Lord, Land could be redeemed, under certain circumstances redemption was no longer valid. When we make a vow to God, it stands. Since God does not break His word - as demonstrated by the rainbow covenant with Noah and still evident to this day, when we break a covenant, it is a serious matter. v29 tells us it is difficult to redeem another's soul. The only person who can do this is God - through Jesus Christ. Ps 49:7-9,15 7 No man can by any means redeem his brother Or give to God a ransom for him-- 8 For the redemption of his soul is costly, And he should cease trying forever-- 9 That he should live on eternally, That he should not undergo decay. 15 ¶ But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol, For He will receive me. Selah. Mark 10:45 45 "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." 2) This chapter shows God's character of holiness. He requires purity of sacrifice from us, His people. Anything less than a pure service and a dedicated redemption / offering is unacceptable. See Acts 5:1-11 1 ¶ But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and kept back some of the price for himself, with his wife's full knowledge, and bringing a portion of it, he laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? 4 "While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God." 5 And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last; and great fear came over all who heard of it. 7 Now there elapsed an interval of about three hours, and his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter responded to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for such and such a price?" And she said, "Yes, that was the price." 9 Then Peter said to her, "Why is it that you have agreed together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out as well." 10 And immediately she fell at his feet and breathed her last, and the young men came in and found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came over the whole church, and over all who heard of these things. Let us make our offering pure before the Lord and give with a cheerful heart. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.