Leviticus

Bible Study Class — Leviticus

“Learning to praise God with lives that are set apart”

Session 1: Restoring the Relationship - Leviticus 1-4

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"The Path to Reconciliation"

Focus Statement: God provides a sacrificial system to restore broken fellowship and dwell among His people.

Purpose Statement: To understand that God graciously provides a way for sinners to be reconciled to Him — a foreshadowing of Christ.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 1-4, watch for these key themes. Notice how God gives detailed instructions for different types of offerings. See how each sacrifice requires something valuable from the person bringing it. Look for the repeated emphasis on blood and fire as essential parts of making things right with God.

Personal Reflection Questions

Think about a time when you had to make things right with someone after hurting them. What did it cost you emotionally or practically to restore that relationship?

If you could only bring one possession to show God how sorry you were for something wrong you did, what would you choose and why?

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Read - Leviticus Chapters 1-4

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

The book of Leviticus might seem outdated with all its talk about animal sacrifices, but it speaks directly to our modern world. Today, people try many ways to deal with guilt and restore broken relationships. Some go to therapy, others volunteer for good causes, and many simply try to forget their mistakes. But God's ancient system in Leviticus shows us something profound: real reconciliation requires a sacrifice, and it must be costly. This principle still applies today, though Christ has now become our ultimate sacrifice. Just as the Israelites needed a way to approach a holy God, we still need that same path of reconciliation.

This May Surprise You

Many people wonder why God required animal sacrifices when He could have simply forgiven sins with a word. Here's what might surprise you: God wasn't being harsh or bloodthirsty. The sacrificial system actually demonstrated His mercy. In ancient times, sin against a holy God should have meant immediate death for the sinner. Instead, God allowed an innocent animal to die in place of the guilty person. This substitution was an act of grace, not cruelty. The system taught Israel that sin has real consequences, but also that God provides a way for someone else to pay the price. This points directly to what Jesus would later do on the cross.

Seeds for Thought

The Burnt Offering (Leviticus 1) This offering was completely burned up on the altar, representing total dedication to God. Comment: Like the burnt offering, our relationship with God requires complete surrender, not partial commitment.

The Grain Offering (Leviticus 2) This was made from flour, oil, and frankincense, representing the fruit of human labor. Comment: God wants us to bring our daily work and efforts as offerings to Him, not just our problems.

The Fellowship Offering (Leviticus 3) Part of this sacrifice was eaten by the worshiper, symbolizing communion with God. Comment: True worship includes both giving to God and receiving from Him in fellowship.

The Sin Offering (Leviticus 4) This sacrifice specifically dealt with unintentional sins and guilt. Comment: God cares about our hearts even when we sin without meaning to, showing His desire for complete holiness in our lives.

Take-Home Thought

The sacrificial system in Leviticus reveals God's heart toward humanity. He could have simply written us off when sin entered the world, but instead He provided a costly way back to relationship with Him. Every animal that died on those altars pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make.

When we read these chapters, we should see both the seriousness of sin and the incredible love of God. Sin isn't just a mistake we can brush off; it breaks our relationship with a holy God. But God doesn't leave us hopeless. He provides the way back, even though it costs Him dearly. Today, we don't bring lambs and bulls to the altar, but we do bring our broken hearts and our need for forgiveness. The principle remains the same: God graciously provides the way home.

Quotes

Charles Spurgeon: "The Old Testament sacrifices were God's kindergarten to teach His people the ABC's of atonement, preparing them to understand the great sacrifice of Christ."

John MacArthur: "Every Old Testament sacrifice was a promissory note pointing to the future payment that Christ would make. The blood of bulls and goats couldn't really take away sins, but it could point to the One who would."

Biblical Connections

Hebrews 9:11-14 - This passage directly connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to Christ's sacrifice, explaining how Jesus became both the high priest and the perfect offering.

Hebrews 10:1-4 - Here the writer explains that the Old Testament sacrifices were "a shadow of the good things that are coming" and that "it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins."

1 Peter 1:18-19 - Peter reminds us that we were redeemed "not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect."

Romans 3:25 - Paul describes Jesus as the one "God presented as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood," connecting directly to the Old Testament concept of blood sacrifice for sin.

Devotional Thought – “The Path to Reconciliation”
Leviticus 1–4

In a quiet village long ago, a broken bridge divided two sides of a town. On one side lived the townspeople; on the other stood the king’s castle. The bridge had collapsed due to years of neglect and wrongdoing. The people missed the king’s presence but had no way to reach him. One day, the king sent his own son to rebuild the bridge. He labored in love, laying each stone with care, until the path was complete. All who wished to cross could now come freely—but only because the king made a way.

Leviticus opens with a similar truth. God desires to dwell among His people, but sin has broken the fellowship. Through the offerings described in chapters 1–4, God provides a way back—an early picture of the bridge Jesus would later build with His own life.

As Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe once said, “The sacrifices were not man’s way of reaching God, but God’s way of reaching man.”

When we read of burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings, it can feel distant. But each one points ahead to Christ—the Lamb who took our place. God’s desire has always been to live with His people. And through Jesus, our bridge is now strong, open, and sure.

So when we feel distant or unworthy, we remember: God Himself made the way back. Our part is simply to cross it.

Culture Connection

Every day we break promises or hurt one another. We try to fix these mistakes with simple apologies. Leviticus 1–4 shows us that God gives a clear way to heal broken trust. His system teaches us to own our faults and seek true forgiveness. This teaching still shapes how we admit wrongs and restore friendships in our world today.

Three Traits from Leviticus 1–4

Trait 1: Humility

Description: We admit our faults and recognize we cannot fix everything on our own.

Reference: Leviticus 4:13–14 shows that confessing wrongs brings us under God’s mercy.

Comment: Embracing humility helps us lean on God’s grace instead of trusting only ourselves.

Reflection Questions:

When was the last time you admitted a mistake to someone and asked for help?

How can you practice humility in your daily actions this week?

Trait 2: Repentance

Description: We turn away from wrong choices and seek to live in right relationship with God.

Reference: Leviticus 4:27–31 describes how a clear confession and offering lead to forgiveness.

Comment: A repentant heart restores fellowship with God and guides us to treat others with kindness.

Reflection Questions:

What sin or habit do you feel God is asking you to confess and change?

How does knowing God welcomes honest repentance give you hope?

Trait 3: Gratitude

Description: We respond to God’s provision by giving thanks and offering our best back to Him.

Reference: Leviticus 1:3–4 calls for offerings that show we value God above all else.

Comment: A grateful heart turns our focus from what we lack to the rich blessings God has given.

Reflection Questions:

What blessings has God given you this week for which you can thank Him?

In what ways can you share your thankfulness through serving others?

Session 2: Pure and Poured Out - Leviticus 5-7
— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"God's Justice and Mercy in the Offerings"

Focus Statement: Explore the guilt and grain offerings that display God's holiness and provision for restoration.

Purpose Statement: To see how God's justice requires atonement, but His mercy makes a way through sacrifice.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 5-7, notice how God makes different rules for rich and poor people bringing offerings. Watch for the detailed instructions about what parts of the animal go where and who gets to eat what. Look for how God addresses both the spiritual side of sin and the practical damage it causes to other people.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 5-7

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

Have you ever felt like you couldn't afford to make things right with someone because it would cost too much? How did that make you feel about the relationship?

When you've wronged someone, what's harder for you - saying you're sorry or actually making up for the damage you caused?

Overview

In our world today, we often separate justice from mercy. Courts focus on punishment while counselors focus on healing. But God's system in Leviticus 5-7 shows us something beautiful: true justice and genuine mercy work together. When someone steals from their neighbor, modern society might send them to jail or make them pay a fine to the government. But God's way required the person to restore what they stole, add twenty percent more, and then bring a sacrifice to make things right with God too. This shows us that real healing addresses both the human relationship and our relationship with God. Today's world desperately needs this kind of complete restoration.

This May Surprise You

Here's something that might shock you about the guilt offering: God required the person to pay back more than they stole or damaged. If someone took a sheep worth ten dollars, they had to give back twelve dollars plus bring a guilt offering to God. This wasn't God being greedy or unfair. Instead, it shows that sin always costs more than we think it will. The extra twenty percent represented the hidden damage that wrongdoing causes - broken trust, hurt feelings, and damaged community. God wanted people to understand that making things right isn't just about replacing what was lost. It's about healing the deeper wounds that sin always creates.

Seeds for Thought

Graduated Guilt Offerings (Leviticus 5:7-13) God allowed poor people to bring birds instead of lambs, and the very poor could bring flour instead of animals. Comment: God's grace meets us where we are financially, but He still requires something costly relative to our means.

The Priest's Portion (Leviticus 6:14-18) The priests received part of the grain offerings as their food, making the offerings practical as well as spiritual. Comment: God designed worship to support those who serve Him full-time, showing that spiritual work has real-world value.

The Sacred and the Common (Leviticus 6:24-30) Anything that touched the sin offering became holy and required special handling. Comment: Holiness spreads when we truly encounter God's presence, affecting every part of our lives.

Full Restitution Plus Twenty Percent (Leviticus 6:1-7) Those who cheated others had to restore the full amount plus an additional fifth. Comment: True repentance goes beyond saying sorry - it actively works to repair all the damage sin has caused.

Take-Home Thought

The guilt and grain offerings in these chapters reveal a God who cares about every detail of our lives. He doesn't just wave His hand and say "you're forgiven" while ignoring the real damage sin causes. Instead, He requires both spiritual restoration through sacrifice and practical restoration through restitution. This shows us that God's love is not weak or sentimental - it's strong enough to demand justice while providing mercy.

When we truly understand what Jesus did for us, we see that He didn't just pay for our spiritual debt to God. He also took on the responsibility for all the damage our sin has caused in the world. The cross represents both perfect justice and perfect mercy meeting together. Today, when we wrong someone, we should follow this same pattern: seek God's forgiveness through Christ and also work to make practical repairs in our human relationships. This is what it means to live as people who have been truly reconciled to God.

Quotes

Matthew Henry: "The guilt offering teaches us that when we have wronged our neighbor, we must not only be reconciled to God, but we must also make satisfaction to our brother, as far as we are able."

R.C. Sproul: "The Old Testament offerings demonstrate that God's mercy never comes at the expense of His justice. Both must be satisfied, and in Christ, both are perfectly fulfilled."

Biblical Connections

Matthew 5:23-24 - Jesus teaches that if we remember someone has something against us while we're worshiping, we should first go make things right with that person, directly reflecting the restitution principle from Leviticus.

Luke 19:8-9 - When Zacchaeus meets Jesus, he promises to pay back four times what he stole from people, going beyond even the Old Testament requirement and earning Jesus' declaration of salvation.

2 Corinthians 5:21 - Paul explains that God "made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God," showing Jesus as our ultimate guilt offering.

Ephesians 4:28 - Paul tells former thieves not just to stop stealing but to work hard so they can give to those in need, demonstrating the positive restitution principle from the guilt offering.

Devotional Thought – “God’s Justice and Mercy in the Offerings”
Leviticus 5–7

A boy once broke his neighbor’s window while playing ball. Afraid and ashamed, he tried to hide the damage. But the neighbor found out. Instead of shouting, the neighbor calmly explained that the window had to be fixed, and someone had to pay. The boy didn’t have the money. Then his father stepped in—he paid for the damage, took the boy with him to help repair the window, and made sure the boy apologized. The neighbor accepted it all. Justice was served, and the relationship was restored.

That’s what the guilt and grain offerings in Leviticus show us. God is holy. When sin breaks fellowship, something must be done—justice must be honored. But here’s the beauty: God not only points out the wrong, He also provides a way to make it right.

The guilt offering reminds us that sin carries a cost. The grain offering, often given with it, reminds us that God also provides. As Matthew Henry once wrote, “God will not be mocked by sin, but neither will He turn away the penitent who brings the sacrifice He has appointed.”

In Jesus, we see both truths perfectly joined. God’s justice was satisfied. His mercy poured out. And like the boy with the window, we are invited not just to be forgiven, but to walk with the One who made it all possible.

What a Savior. What a gift.

Culture Connection

Today we avoid talking about guilt and justice, yet we still hurt others and ourselves by hiding mistakes. Leviticus 5–7 shows us that admitting wrongs and making things right is key to healthy relationships. It reminds us that God’s rules blend justice with mercy, guiding us to honest living and true peace.

Three Traits from Leviticus 5–7

Trait 1: Accountability

Description: We own up to our mistakes instead of blaming others or hiding them.

Reference: Leviticus 5:5 – “When anyone becomes aware that they are guilty in any of these matters, they must confess in what way they have sinned.” (NIV)

Comment: Admitting fault builds trust with God and people around us.

Reflection Questions:

When did you last admit a mistake and ask for forgiveness?

What step can you take today to be honest about something you’ve done wrong?

Trait 2: Gratitude in Worship

Description: We offer back to God the best we have as a way to say “thank you.”

Reference: Leviticus 7:12 – “If they present a grain offering of their own free will as an aroma pleasing to the Lord, it shall be presented to the priest.” (NIV)

Comment: Thankful giving shifts our focus from scarcity to God’s generosity.

Reflection Questions:

How can you show your gratitude through a gift or act of service this week?

In what ways does remembering God’s kindness change how you treat others?

Trait 3: Assurance of Mercy

Description: We trust that God provides a way back whenever we fail.

Reference: Leviticus 5:6–7 – “He shall bring his offering…the priest shall make atonement for him, and he will be forgiven.” (NIV)

Comment: Knowing God’s mercy is real frees us from shame and fear.

Reflection Questions:

How does God’s promise of forgiveness affect your prayer life?

When you feel unworthy, what Bible verse can remind you of God’s mercy?

Session 3: Set Apart to Serve - Leviticus 8-10

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"The God Who Consecrates"

Focus Statement: God establishes a priesthood to intercede, teach, and minister before Him on behalf of the people.

Purpose Statement: To see how God calls and equips servants for holy work — and how Christ is our Great High Priest.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 8-10, watch for the elaborate ceremony that sets Aaron and his sons apart as priests. Notice how Moses carefully follows every detail God commanded for their consecration. Look for the tragic story of Nadab and Abihu, and see how seriously God takes proper worship and obedience from those who serve Him.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 8-10

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

Think about a time when someone trusted you with an important responsibility. How did knowing they were counting on you change the way you approached that task?

Have you ever been in a situation where you thought you could improve on someone else's instructions, only to discover your way caused problems? What did you learn from that experience?

Overview

Our modern world struggles with the concept of authority and proper procedures. We live in a "do it yourself" culture where everyone wants to customize everything to their personal preferences. Social media has made everyone their own expert, and traditional institutions often seem outdated or restrictive. But Leviticus 8-10 shows us something crucial: when it comes to approaching a holy God, there are right ways and wrong ways. God doesn't accept our creative alternatives when they ignore His clear instructions. This isn't because God is controlling, but because He knows what it takes to safely come into His presence. Just as a surgeon must follow sterile procedures in an operating room, those who serve God must follow His guidelines for approaching Him.

This May Surprise You

You might be shocked to learn that God killed Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu for using "unauthorized fire" in their worship. This seems harsh until you understand what was really happening. These men were priests, specially chosen and trained to represent the people before God. They knew exactly what God required, but they decided to do things their own way instead. Their rebellion wasn't just personal disobedience - it was a rejection of God's authority that could have led the entire nation astray. God's swift judgment protected the holiness of worship and showed everyone that serving God is a serious responsibility. This wasn't cruelty; it was necessary discipline that prevented greater disaster for the whole community.

Seeds for Thought

The Seven-Day Consecration (Leviticus 8:33-36) Aaron and his sons had to stay in the tabernacle for seven full days to complete their ordination. Comment: True preparation for serving God takes time and cannot be rushed, requiring patient dedication to the process.

Blood on Ear, Thumb, and Toe (Leviticus 8:23-24) Moses put sacrificial blood on specific parts of Aaron's body during the consecration ceremony. Comment: God wants our hearing, our work, and our walk all dedicated to Him - every part of life set apart for service.

Moses as the Ordainer (Leviticus 8:1-13) God chose Moses, not Aaron himself, to perform the consecration ceremony. Comment: We don't ordain ourselves for God's service; He calls us and works through others to confirm that calling.

Unauthorized Fire Brings Death (Leviticus 10:1-3) Nadab and Abihu died instantly when they offered strange fire before the Lord. Comment: Those who lead in worship bear special responsibility to honor God's instructions exactly as given.

Take-Home Thought

The consecration of Aaron and his sons teaches us that serving God is both a tremendous privilege and a serious responsibility. God doesn't just pick anyone randomly to represent Him - He chooses specific people and prepares them carefully for the work. The detailed ceremony, the special clothing, and the week-long process all show that approaching God requires proper preparation and deep respect.

But the tragic story of Nadab and Abihu reminds us that privilege comes with accountability. These men had been given the highest honor in Israel - serving as priests in God's presence. But they treated that honor carelessly, deciding they knew better than God about how worship should be conducted. Their story warns us that knowing God's ways and choosing to follow them are two different things. Today, every Christian is called to be part of God's royal priesthood, representing Him to the world. This calling requires the same careful attention to God's instructions and the same humble recognition that His ways are higher than our ways.

Quotes

John Calvin: "The priesthood was not established for the glory of men, but for the service of God and the salvation of the people. When priests forget this purpose, they become dangerous to themselves and others."

Charles Haddon Spurgeon: "Aaron's consecration teaches us that no man takes this honor to himself, but he that is called of God. Self-made ministers are unauthorized fire-bearers who bring death instead of life to the people."

Biblical Connections

Hebrews 5:4-6 - The writer explains that "no one takes this honor on himself, but he must be called by God, just as Aaron was," then shows how Christ was appointed as our eternal high priest.

Hebrews 7:26-28 - This passage contrasts earthly priests like Aaron, who had to offer sacrifices for their own sins, with Jesus, who was "holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners."

1 Peter 2:9 - Peter tells all Christians they are "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation," applying the principles of priestly consecration to every believer.

Hebrews 9:11-15 - Here the author explains how Christ entered the heavenly tabernacle as our high priest, offering His own blood instead of the blood of animals to secure eternal redemption.

Devotional Thought – “The God Who Consecrates”

Imagine a young man chosen to serve as a guard at a great castle. Before he begins, he is carefully dressed in the uniform, taught the rules, and given instructions on how to protect the king’s household. The training is serious because the job is important. Every detail matters. The young man is set apart—not just for any work—but for a special purpose.

In Leviticus 8–10, we see God setting apart Aaron and his sons as priests. This wasn’t a casual role. They were consecrated—made holy—to serve God and His people. Their job was to stand between the people and God, offering sacrifices, teaching God’s laws, and guiding the people in worship.

Theologian A.W. Tozer reminds us, “God’s call is always a call to holiness.” Being chosen means being changed and equipped to do God’s work faithfully.

But there’s more. This priesthood points us forward to Jesus, our Great High Priest. Unlike Aaron and his sons, Jesus is perfect and eternal. He doesn’t just offer sacrifices—He is the perfect sacrifice. He intercedes for us before God, and through Him, we are invited to draw near with confidence.

So when you think about service—whether in church or everyday life—remember that God calls each of us to be set apart. He equips and sends us to serve, just as He did with His priests long ago, through the power of Christ.

Culture Connection

Many of us want to serve our church or community, but we hesitate because we feel unprepared. Leviticus 8–10 shows that God not only calls people to ministry but also equips and empowers them. This reminds us today that when God asks us to help, He gives what we need to succeed.

Three Traits from Leviticus 8–10

Trait 1: Calledness to Serve

Description: God picks ordinary people for special work in His house.

Reference: In Leviticus 8:30, Moses anointed Aaron to set him apart for priestly service.

Comment: Understanding that God calls us gives our service clear purpose and meaning.

Reflection Questions:

How has God shown you that He wants you to help in His church or community?

What gifts or talents has God given you that you could use to serve others?

Trait 2: Obedience to God’s Instructions

Description: Serving God means following His directions carefully, not our own plans.

Reference: Leviticus 8:35 commands the priests to remain at the entrance of the tent of meeting, obeying all God’s rules.

Comment: Obedience shows our trust in God’s wisdom and keeps our service pure.

Reflection Questions:

Which of God’s commands do you find hardest to obey in your daily life?

How can you remind yourself to follow God’s guidance before making decisions?

Trait 3: Dependence on God’s Power

Description: True ministry relies on God’s presence, not just our effort.

Reference: In Leviticus 9:23–24, fire from the Lord consumed the offerings, showing His approval and power.

Comment: Remembering that God works through us humbles us and keeps us focused on Him.

Reflection Questions:

When you serve, how can you invite God’s power into your efforts?

What experiences have you had where you clearly felt God’s help as you worked for Him?

Session 4: A Clean People for a Holy God - Leviticus 11-15

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"Living in Purity"

Focus Statement: God's laws of cleanliness teach His people to live in constant awareness of His presence.

Purpose Statement: To grow in spiritual discernment and personal holiness, knowing our God dwells among us.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 11-15, notice the difference between clean and unclean animals that God's people could eat. Watch for the detailed rules about skin diseases and how they affected a person's place in the community. Look for the emphasis on washing, waiting periods, and offerings that restore someone to fellowship with God and others.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 11-15

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

Think about your daily routines for staying physically clean. What would your life be like if you stopped caring about personal hygiene? How do you think others would respond to you?

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt spiritually "dirty" or distant from God? What helped you feel clean and close to Him again?

Overview

We live in a culture obsessed with external cleanliness but often careless about internal purity. We sanitize our hands constantly, filter our water, and demand organic food, yet we fill our minds with impure entertainment and our hearts with bitter attitudes. The ancient laws in Leviticus might seem strange to us, but they taught Israel something our world desperately needs to learn: what we put into our bodies and how we handle life's messy situations affects our relationship with God. These weren't arbitrary rules but practical lessons about living as people who carry God's presence wherever they go. Today, we don't avoid pork or isolate people with skin conditions, but we still need to learn the deeper principle: holiness matters in every area of life.

This May Surprise You

You might wonder why God cared so much about what the Israelites ate or whether they had skin diseases. Here's what may surprise you: these laws weren't primarily about health, though they often promoted it. They were about training God's people to make constant decisions between clean and unclean, holy and common. Every meal became a reminder that they belonged to God. Every skin condition taught them that sin affects the whole community, not just the individual. God was teaching them to think carefully about everything they encountered, asking "Does this draw me closer to God or farther away?" This daily practice of spiritual discernment prepared them to recognize and avoid much more serious spiritual dangers.

Seeds for Thought

Clean and Unclean Animals (Leviticus 11:1-23) God divided all animals into categories, allowing some for food while forbidding others entirely. Comment: Learning to distinguish between what God approves and disapproves trains us for bigger spiritual decisions throughout life.

Skin Diseases and Community (Leviticus 13:45-46) People with serious skin conditions had to live outside the camp and warn others of their uncleanness. Comment: Sin affects not just ourselves but our relationships with others, sometimes requiring painful separation for everyone's protection.

The Priest as Health Inspector (Leviticus 13:2-3) Priests, not doctors, examined people with skin problems to determine if they were clean or unclean. Comment: Spiritual leaders must sometimes make difficult decisions about who can participate in community worship and service.

Cleansing Ceremonies for Restoration (Leviticus 14:1-9) Detailed rituals were required before someone could return to normal community life after being healed. Comment: Coming back into fellowship with God and others often requires intentional steps, not just the passage of time.

Take-Home Thought

The purity laws in Leviticus teach us that God cares about every aspect of our lives, not just what happens during worship services. He wanted His people to develop spiritual sensitivity that would help them recognize danger and stay close to Him. These laws created a rhythm of constant awareness - every meal, every illness, every bodily function became an opportunity to remember their special relationship with God.

While we don't follow these specific rules today, the principle remains the same. As Christians, we carry God's Spirit within us, making us living temples of the holy God. This means our entertainment choices, our relationships, our business practices, and our personal habits all matter to Him. We're called to live with the same kind of spiritual sensitivity that these laws were designed to develop. When we face decisions about what to watch, where to go, or how to spend our time, we should ask the same question the Israelites learned to ask: "Will this help me stay close to God, or will it create distance between us?" This isn't legalism - it's love responding to the incredible privilege of carrying God's presence in our daily lives.

Quotes

Matthew Henry: "The distinction between clean and unclean was designed to teach the people of God to put a difference between good and evil, and to take heed of sin as a defiling thing, which renders us odious to the pure and holy God."

Derek Kidner: "These laws were not merely ceremonial but educational, training Israel in habits of reverence and in a sense of the holy which would govern their whole approach to life and worship."

Biblical Connections

Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's vision of the sheet with unclean animals teaches him that God has made all foods clean, showing how Christ's work removes the ceremonial barriers between clean and unclean.

Mark 7:14-23 - Jesus explains that it's not what goes into a person that makes them unclean, but what comes out of their heart, shifting focus from external to internal purity.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Paul reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, applying the principle of treating our physical selves as sacred space where God dwells.

2 Corinthians 6:16-18 - Paul quotes Old Testament promises about God dwelling among His people and calls us to "purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit," showing the ongoing relevance of purity concerns.

Devotional Thought – “Living in Purity”

Think about a garden. If the soil is full of weeds, the plants won’t grow well. But if the gardener carefully removes the weeds and tends the soil, the garden will flourish. It takes ongoing attention and care.

In Leviticus chapters 11 to 15, God gives His people laws about clean and unclean things—not just about health, but about living in a way that honors His holiness. These laws were a daily reminder that God is holy and lives among His people. Just as a gardener tends a garden, God calls us to tend our hearts and lives with care.

Pastor and author Charles Spurgeon once said, “Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness.” The rules in Leviticus weren’t meant to be a heavy burden, but a guide pointing to the need for God’s cleansing power in our lives.

For us today, living in purity means more than avoiding things that are wrong—it means being aware that God is with us all the time. It means letting Him clean out the “weeds” in our hearts so we can grow closer to Him.

When we remember God’s presence in every moment, it changes how we live. We become a clean and holy people, ready to reflect the love and goodness of the God who dwells with us.

Culture Connection

In our world, we face choices every day that affect our bodies, minds, and relationships. Leviticus 11–15 reminds us that God wants us to be aware of what we “consume”—not just food but ideas, habits, and friendships. By following His guidelines for purity, we learn to guard our hearts and communities. This ancient teaching still influences how we protect our health, make wise choices, and stay close to God in a busy culture.

Three Traits from Leviticus 11–15

Trait 1: Discernment

Description: We learn to tell what is healthy and what is harmful, making choices that honor God.

Reference: Leviticus 11:47 – “You must distinguish between the unclean and the clean, between living things that may be eaten and those that may not be eaten.”

Comment: Discernment helps us avoid harmful influences and focus on what builds up our faith and well-being.

Reflection Questions:

When did you last pause and ask God whether something was good for you spiritually or physically?

How can you practice discernment this week when choosing what to watch, read, or eat?

Trait 2: Holiness

Description: We set ourselves apart for God, living in a way that reflects His pure character.

Reference: Leviticus 11:44 – “I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy.”

Comment: Pursuing holiness reshapes our thoughts and actions so they align with God’s values instead of the world’s.

Reflection Questions:

What habit or attitude do you need to change to live more like God’s holy people?

In what daily moment can you remind yourself that God calls you to be holy?

Trait 3: Stewardship

Description: We take responsibility for our bodies, homes, and community by following God’s guidelines for health and order.

Reference: Leviticus 15:31 – “Thus you shall separate the children of Israel from their uncleanness, that they do not die in their uncleanliness, for they are to be holy to Me.”

Comment: Stewardship shows our respect for God’s design and care for others, knowing our choices affect the whole community.

Reflection Questions:

What small change can you make at home or church to improve cleanliness or order this week?

How does caring for your physical space reflect your trust in God’s care for you?

Session 5: The Day of Atonement - Leviticus 16-18

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"The Great Exchange"

Focus Statement: God provides a once-a-year act of corporate cleansing that foreshadows Christ's final atonement.

Purpose Statement: To see the Day of Atonement as a picture of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 16-18, watch for the unique ceremony with two goats - one killed and one sent away into the wilderness. Notice how the high priest enters the Most Holy Place only once per year on this special day. Look for how this day deals with all the sins of the entire nation, not just individual wrongdoing.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 16-18

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

If you could take all your mistakes from the past year and send them away so they could never come back to hurt you, how would that change the way you feel about yourself?

Think about a time when someone else took the blame or punishment for something you did wrong. How did their sacrifice affect your relationship with them?

Overview

Our modern world is obsessed with finding someone to blame when things go wrong. Social media turns every mistake into a permanent record that follows people forever. Cancel culture means that past failures can destroy present opportunities. We live in a society that rarely offers true forgiveness or fresh starts. But the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 presents a radically different approach. Once a year, all the sins of the entire nation were placed on a goat and sent away into the wilderness, never to return. This wasn't just individual forgiveness - it was corporate cleansing that gave the whole community a fresh start. Today's world desperately needs this kind of complete forgiveness that doesn't keep bringing up past failures but truly removes them from the relationship.

This May Surprise You

Here's something that might shock you about the Day of Atonement: it required two goats, not just one. Most people focus on the scapegoat that carried sins away into the wilderness, but there was also another goat that was killed as a sin offering. This teaches us something profound about what it takes to deal with sin completely. The killed goat satisfied God's justice - sin required death. The scapegoat satisfied our need for assurance - the sins were actually gone, never to return. Jesus had to fulfill both roles. On the cross, He died to satisfy God's justice against sin. In His resurrection and ascension, He carried our sins completely away from us. This is why the Bible says our sins are removed "as far as the east is from the west" and that God remembers them no more.

Seeds for Thought

The High Priest's Preparation (Leviticus 16:3-4) Aaron had to bathe and put on special linen garments, not his usual ornate robes, before entering God's presence. Comment: Approaching God requires humility and purity, setting aside all outward displays of human achievement or status.

The Lot System for the Goats (Leviticus 16:7-10) God chose which goat would die and which would carry sins away, removing human decision from the process. Comment: God's plan of salvation doesn't depend on human wisdom or choice but on His sovereign decision to provide redemption.

Blood in the Most Holy Place (Leviticus 16:14-16) The high priest sprinkled blood on the mercy seat where God's presence dwelt, cleansing the sanctuary itself. Comment: Sin doesn't just affect people - it pollutes the very places where God meets with us, requiring complete cleansing.

The Scapegoat's Journey (Leviticus 16:20-22) All the nation's sins were confessed over the live goat, which then carried them away to a desolate place. Comment: True forgiveness doesn't just cover sin - it completely removes it so that it can never return to accuse us.

Take-Home Thought

The Day of Atonement reveals both the seriousness of sin and the completeness of God's forgiveness. This wasn't a quick fix or a shallow "sorry" that left things basically unchanged. It was a thorough, costly process that dealt with every aspect of the sin problem. The death of one goat showed that sin brings real consequences that must be paid. The removal of sins by the other goat demonstrated that God's forgiveness is complete and final.

When we understand what Jesus accomplished on the cross, we see Him fulfilling both roles perfectly. He died the death our sins deserved, satisfying God's perfect justice. But He also carried our sins completely away from us, never to return as accusations against us. This means that when God looks at Christians, He doesn't see our past failures or present struggles with sin. He sees the perfect righteousness of Christ. The Day of Atonement teaches us that we don't have to keep paying for forgiven sins or worry that God might change His mind about forgiving us. What Jesus did was complete, final, and sufficient for all time. This should fill us with both deep gratitude for such costly love and confident assurance that we are truly accepted by God.

Quotes

John Stott: "The Day of Atonement beautifully illustrates the two aspects of Christ's work - satisfaction and substitution. He satisfied God's justice by His death and substituted Himself for us by carrying our sins away."

Martyn Lloyd-Jones: "The scapegoat going into the wilderness is one of the most wonderful pictures in the Old Testament of what happens to our sins when we believe in Christ. They are not merely covered; they are carried away completely."

Biblical Connections

Hebrews 9:6-12 - The writer contrasts the earthly high priest who entered the Most Holy Place yearly with Christ who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, obtaining eternal redemption.

Hebrews 10:19-22 - Because of Jesus' sacrifice, we can now "enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus" with confidence, showing how Christ opened the way the Day of Atonement only foreshadowed.

2 Corinthians 5:21 - Paul explains that "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God," describing the great exchange pictured by the atonement ceremony.

1 John 2:2 - John calls Jesus "the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world," showing how Christ fulfilled what the Day of Atonement represented.

Devotional Thought – “The Great Exchange”

Picture a busy city street where a terrible storm has left the roads covered in mud and debris. Every day, people try to clean their own little patch, but it’s never enough to clear the whole city. Then one day, a team comes with powerful machines and cleans every street, all at once, making the city fresh and clean again.

The Day of Atonement was like that powerful cleanup for Israel. Once a year, the high priest entered the most sacred part of the temple to make a special sacrifice—taking the sins of the whole nation on himself and cleansing the people from all their wrongs. It was the one day when the whole community was made clean before God.

As pastor John Stott explained, “The Day of Atonement pointed forward to the time when the perfect sacrifice would be made once for all—Jesus Christ, who took away the sin of the world.”

This special day showed God’s justice and mercy working together. Sin had to be dealt with, but God provided a way to remove it completely. Jesus fulfilled this once-and-for-all sacrifice by giving His life for us. Because of Him, we don’t have to wait a whole year or offer repeated sacrifices. We are cleansed today and forever.

So, when you feel weighed down by guilt or sin, remember the great exchange Jesus made for you—taking your sin and giving you His righteousness. That’s the gift of the Day of Atonement fulfilled in Christ.

Culture Connection

Our world likes quick fixes that gloss over deeper issues. Leviticus 16–18 reminds us that true healing comes when we confess our guilt, accept God’s provision, and commit to His ways. This ancient ritual points us to Jesus, who makes real atonement once and for all. Today, it invites us to stop hiding mistakes, trust a Savior who intercedes, and live by God’s statutes in every choice.

Three Traits from Leviticus 16–18

Trait 1: Honesty about Guilt

Description: We break through denial by naming our sins and bringing them into the light.

Reference: Leviticus 16:21–22 describes Aaron laying hands on the scapegoat, confessing Israel’s sins over it.

Comment: Owning our guilt opens the door for God’s cleansing power instead of self-justification.

Reflection Questions:

What hidden sin in your life are you reluctant to admit before God or others?

How could confessing that sin bring freedom instead of further shame?

Trait 2: Dependence on a Mediator

Description: We recognize we cannot approach God alone and need someone to stand in our place.

Reference: Leviticus 16:32 shows the anointed priest making atonement for all the people, acting for them before the Lord.

Comment: Christ is our Great High Priest who intercedes for us, inviting us to depend on His perfect work.

Reflection Questions:

When have you tried to fix things on your own instead of trusting Jesus to intercede?

How does knowing Christ stands before God for you change the way you pray?

Trait 3: Obedience as Gratitude

Description: We respond to God’s mercy by following His statutes and living in a way that honors Him.

Reference: Leviticus 18:5 underscores that keeping God’s laws brings life, showing our reverence for His gift of atonement.

Comment: Obedience becomes our heartfelt “thank you,” shaping daily choices and moral purity.

Reflection Questions:

Which of God’s commands feels most challenging for you, and how can you lean on His strength to obey?

In what practical ways can your obedience demonstrate gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice?

Session 6: Living as God's Holy People - Leviticus 19-22

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"Called to Reflect His Character"

Focus Statement: God's call to holiness touches every aspect of life, from justice to worship to relationships.

Purpose Statement: To respond to God's holiness with a life that mirrors His character in everyday actions.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 19-22, notice how God mixes worship rules with business ethics and family relationships. Watch for the famous command to "love your neighbor as yourself" appearing alongside instructions about farming and clothing. Look for how God connects His own character ("I am the Lord") to the standards He expects from His people.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 19-22

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

Think about someone you really admire. In what ways do you find yourself naturally copying their habits, speech, or attitudes without even trying?

If a stranger followed you around for a week watching how you treat family, coworkers, and service workers, what would they conclude about what kind of God you serve?

Overview

Our modern world loves to separate spiritual life from everyday life. We go to church on Sunday but think our faith doesn't apply to how we do business on Monday. We post Bible verses on social media but ignore homeless people on the street. We sing about God's love during worship but gossip about church members in the parking lot afterward. But Leviticus 19-22 shows us that God refuses to be compartmentalized. His call to holiness covers everything from how we pay our employees to how we treat disabled people. This isn't religious micromanaging - it's the natural result of belonging to a holy God. When His character lives in us, it should show up in every relationship and every decision we make.

This May Surprise You

You might be surprised to discover that the famous command "love your neighbor as yourself" first appears not in the New Testament, but right here in Leviticus 19:18. Even more surprising is the context - it's surrounded by very practical commands about not gossiping, not holding grudges, and paying workers on time. This shows us that love isn't just a warm feeling or good intentions. Real love takes concrete action in everyday situations. God defines loving your neighbor as treating them with the same fairness, respect, and consideration you want for yourself. This means love shows up in honest business dealings, fair treatment of employees, and refusing to spread rumors. The neighbor love that Jesus highlighted wasn't a new idea - it was always at the heart of what it means to live as God's holy people.

Seeds for Thought

Justice in Business (Leviticus 19:35-36) God commands honest weights and measures in all commercial transactions, calling dishonesty an abomination. Comment: Our integrity in small financial matters reveals whether we truly honor God or just use religious language to cover selfish hearts.

Care for the Vulnerable (Leviticus 19:14) Specific protection is given to deaf and blind people, forbidding anyone from taking advantage of their disabilities. Comment: How we treat society's most vulnerable members shows whether we reflect God's heart for justice and mercy.

Respect for Elders (Leviticus 19:32) Rising in the presence of aged people and honoring them is commanded as reverence for God. Comment: A culture that discards its elderly has forgotten that wisdom and experience are gifts from God to be treasured.

No Mixing of Sacred and Pagan (Leviticus 19:26-31) Consulting mediums, practicing divination, and following occult practices are strictly forbidden. Comment: We cannot serve both God and competing spiritual powers; our loyalty must be undivided and complete.

Take-Home Thought

These chapters reveal that holiness isn't about following a list of religious rules - it's about becoming the kind of people who naturally reflect God's character in every situation. When God says "be holy because I am holy," He's not asking us to be perfect. He's inviting us to let His nature shape our nature so completely that treating others with love, justice, and mercy becomes as natural as breathing.

The key phrase that appears throughout these chapters is "I am the Lord." God connects every command to His own character, showing us that obedience isn't about earning His approval but about becoming like Him. When we treat employees fairly, it's because our God is just. When we care for disabled people, it's because our God protects the vulnerable. When we refuse to gossip, it's because our God is truthful. This kind of holiness can't be faked or performed just on Sundays - it flows from a heart that has been transformed by knowing who God really is. The world desperately needs to see Christians whose daily lives demonstrate that our God is different from the selfish, dishonest, and cruel gods that many people worship. Our holiness becomes a living advertisement for the character of the God we serve.

Quotes

John Wesley: "Holiness is not a series of duties but a walk with God that transforms us from the inside out. It shows itself not in religious ceremonies but in honest business, loving families, and just treatment of all people."

A.W. Tozer: "The holy man is not one who cannot sin, but one whose heart habitually moves toward God in every situation. His first thought is not 'What will this cost me?' but 'What does God require of me?'"

Biblical Connections

Matthew 22:37-39 - When Jesus is asked about the greatest commandment, He quotes both Deuteronomy 6:5 about loving God and Leviticus 19:18 about loving neighbors, showing these Old Testament principles remain central to Christian living.

James 1:27 - James defines "pure and faultless religion" as caring for orphans and widows and keeping oneself unstained by the world, echoing the practical holiness taught in Leviticus.

1 Peter 1:14-16 - Peter directly quotes Leviticus 19:2, telling Christians "be holy, because I am holy," and connecting it to obedient living rather than conforming to former desires.

Ephesians 4:28 - Paul's instruction for thieves to work honestly and share with those in need reflects the justice and generosity principles found throughout Leviticus 19-22.

Devotional Thought – “Called to Reflect His Character”

Imagine a clear, still lake. When the sun shines on it, the water reflects everything around it perfectly. The trees, the sky, even the birds flying above are mirrored in its surface. But if the water becomes muddy or disturbed, the reflection is blurred and unclear.

In Leviticus 19 through 22, God calls His people to live as a holy reflection of Him. Holiness isn’t just about big religious acts—it’s about every part of life: how we treat others, how we work, how we worship, and how we care for those in need.

Theologian J. I. Packer once said, “Holiness is not a luxury for the few, but a duty for all.” God’s commands here show us that living holy means living justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him.

When we live this way, we become like that still lake—clear mirrors reflecting God’s character to the world. Our actions and attitudes show others what God is like.

Even in small, everyday moments, God calls us to reflect His holiness. So, as we go about our day, let’s ask Him to keep our hearts pure and our lives focused on Him—so that others might see God’s love shining through us.

Culture Connection

In our fast-paced world, we often face pressure to get ahead by cutting corners or showing favoritism. Leviticus 19–22 reminds us that God calls us to live honestly, judge fairly, and love those around us. His laws shape how we do business, stand up for the weak, and build true community today.

Three Traits from Leviticus 19–22

Trait 1: Integrity

Description: We speak and act in ways that match the truth, even when no one is watching.

Reference: Leviticus 19:11 – “Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”

Comment: Living with integrity shows God’s honesty through us and builds trust in our relationships.

Reflection Questions:

When have you been tempted to hide the truth in a small matter?

How can you choose honesty this week, even if it feels risky?

Trait 2: Justice

Description: We treat people fairly and refuse to twist rules for our own gain.

Reference: Leviticus 19:15 – “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.”

Comment: Pursuing justice reflects God’s heart for the vulnerable and keeps our community strong.

Reflection Questions:

Where in your life do you see unfair treatment, and what could you do about it?

How might you practice fairness when making decisions at home or church?

Trait 3: Love for Neighbor

Description: We care for others’ needs as deeply as we care for our own.

Reference: Leviticus 19:18 – “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Comment: Showing real love welcomes others into God’s family and mirrors His kindness.

Reflection Questions:

What is one practical way you can help someone in need this week?

How does treating others with compassion reflect God’s character through you?

Session 7: God's Sacred Calendar - Leviticus 23-27

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"Living in Rhythm with God"

Focus Statement: God establishes sacred times and rhythms to help His people remember, worship, and trust.

Purpose Statement: To embrace spiritual rhythms that keep our lives centered on God's presence and promises.

What to Look For

As you read Leviticus 23-27, notice how God spreads His festivals throughout the year from spring to fall. Watch for the connection between agricultural seasons and spiritual celebrations. Look for the radical concept of the Jubilee year when debts are forgiven, slaves are freed, and land returns to original families.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 23-27

Audio (NLT)

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Personal Reflection Questions

What regular rhythms or traditions in your life help you remember what's most important to you? How would your year feel different without those special times?

Think about a debt or burden you carry that seems impossible to escape. How would your life change if someone announced that burden was completely cancelled?

Overview

We live in a culture that has lost touch with meaningful rhythms. Our calendars are filled with work deadlines, school schedules, and entertainment events, but we've forgotten how to create space for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. Many people feel like they're on a treadmill that never stops, always busy but rarely experiencing true rest or celebration. God's sacred calendar in Leviticus offers a different way to live. He built regular festivals into the year that forced His people to stop working, remember His goodness, and celebrate together. These weren't just religious duties but essential rhythms that kept their hearts connected to Him and each other. Modern Christians desperately need to rediscover this wisdom about creating sacred time in our rushed and scattered lives.

This May Surprise You

You might be amazed to learn that God commanded a year-long party every fifty years called the Jubilee. During this year, all debts were cancelled, all slaves were freed, and all land returned to its original families. This wasn't just a nice idea - it was required by law. God knew that economic systems naturally create inequality over time, with some families getting richer while others sink into poverty and slavery. The Jubilee reset everything, giving everyone a fresh start. This shows us that God cares deeply about economic justice and wants to prevent permanent class divisions among His people. While we don't observe Jubilee years today, the principle remains: God wants His people to be generous with forgiveness, second chances, and sharing resources with those who need help.

Seeds for Thought

The Sabbath Pattern (Leviticus 23:3) God begins His sacred calendar with the weekly Sabbath, establishing rest as the foundation for all other celebrations. Comment: Regular rest isn't laziness but obedience, teaching us to trust God rather than believing everything depends on our constant effort.

Passover and Unleavened Bread (Leviticus 23:4-8) These spring festivals celebrate God's deliverance from Egypt and the urgency of leaving slavery behind. Comment: We need regular reminders of how God has rescued us, both to build gratitude and to strengthen faith for future challenges.

The Day of Atonement as Rest (Leviticus 23:27-32) The most solemn day of the year is also called a Sabbath, combining serious spiritual business with complete rest from work. Comment: Dealing honestly with our sin and receiving God's forgiveness brings the deepest kind of rest to our souls.

Jubilee Freedom (Leviticus 25:8-17) Every fiftieth year, debts are cancelled, slaves are freed, and land returns to original owners throughout the nation. Comment: God's ultimate plan includes freedom from all the burdens that weigh us down, pointing to the complete liberation Christ provides.

Take-Home Thought

God's sacred calendar teaches us that spiritual health requires intentional rhythms of rest, remembrance, and celebration. These festivals weren't interruptions to real life - they were what made life meaningful and sustainable. Without regular times to stop working and remember God's goodness, His people would forget who they were and why they mattered. The festivals connected them to their history, their community, and their hope for the future.

Today's Christians need to recover this wisdom about sacred time. We need regular rhythms that pull us away from the endless demands of work and worry to celebrate what God has done and trust Him for what He will do. This might mean protecting Sunday as a day for worship and rest, creating family traditions that remember God's faithfulness, or setting aside special times each year for deeper reflection and spiritual renewal. The specific forms matter less than the heart behind them - creating space for God to remind us of His love and refresh our souls.

The Jubilee year points us to the ultimate freedom that Jesus provides. While we may still struggle with financial debts, broken relationships, and personal failures, Christ has declared a permanent Jubilee for all who trust Him. Our spiritual debts are cancelled, our slavery to sin is broken, and our inheritance as God's children is secure. Living in the rhythm of God's calendar helps us remember these gospel truths and celebrate the freedom we have in Christ.

Quotes

Abraham Joshua Heschel: "The Sabbaths are our great cathedrals in time, and the festivals are our opportunities to step out of the rush of daily life and remember the eternal significance of our existence."

Eugene Peterson: "God's festivals teach us that worship is not something we fit into our schedule when convenient, but the organizing principle around which we arrange our entire lives."

Biblical Connections

Luke 4:16-21 - Jesus announces His ministry by reading from Isaiah about proclaiming "the year of the Lord's favor," directly connecting His work to the Jubilee principle of freedom and fresh starts.

Mark 2:27-28 - When criticized for Sabbath activity, Jesus explains that "the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath," showing that God's rhythms serve human flourishing rather than restricting it.

Colossians 2:16-17 - Paul explains that Old Testament festivals were "a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ," showing how these celebrations pointed to spiritual truths fulfilled in Jesus.

Hebrews 4:9-11 - The writer connects the Sabbath rest to the spiritual rest we find in Christ, encouraging us to "make every effort to enter that rest" by trusting God rather than our own works.

Devotional Thought – “Living in Rhythm with God”

Think about the rhythm of a song—the steady beat that guides the melody. Without rhythm, the song feels confusing or unsettled. It’s the pattern that helps everything flow smoothly.

In Leviticus 23–27, God gives His people a sacred calendar—a rhythm of festivals, holy days, and seasons. These times were set to help the people stop, remember who God is, worship Him, and trust in His promises. They weren’t just rules to follow, but a way to live connected to God’s presence.

Theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer once wrote, “God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer.” These sacred times created space for listening, resting, and reflecting—spaces where the people could draw near to God amid busy lives.

Even now, we need rhythms that help us pause and focus on God. Whether it’s weekly worship, daily prayer, or special celebrations, these moments keep our hearts centered on the One who holds our lives steady.

As we follow God’s sacred rhythm, we learn to trust Him more deeply, live more fully, and rest more peacefully—knowing He is always near. What rhythms can you embrace today to keep your heart tuned to God’s steady beat?

Culture Connection

Our lives are full of calendars packed with appointments, reminders, and to-do lists. Yet we often forget to pause and focus on what truly matters. Leviticus 23–27 shows us that God gave His people special days, seasons, and years so they would remember His goodness, rest in His care, and trust His timing. Today, we can use these rhythms to step away from busyness, draw near to God, and find our security in His unchanging promises.

Three Traits from Leviticus 23–27

Trait 1: Remembrance

Description: God calls us to set aside times that help us remember His past deeds and promises.

Reference: Leviticus 23:4 – “These are the LORD’s appointed festivals, the sacred assemblies you are to celebrate at their appointed times.”

Comment: Remembering God’s faithfulness fuels our faith when we face new challenges.

Reflection Questions:

Which of God’s past acts of care in your life do you need to recall and celebrate today?

How can you create a simple ritual—like lighting a candle or journaling—to help you remember God’s work each month?

Trait 2: Rest

Description: God designed regular pauses so we can trust Him rather than our own efforts.

Reference: Leviticus 23:3 – “Six days do your work, but on the seventh day you shall rest, even during the plowing season and harvest.”

Comment: Observing a Sabbath rest reminds us that our worth comes from God, not from what we produce.

Reflection Questions:

What activity can you set aside this week to rest and focus on God instead?

How does taking a regular break change the way you depend on God for strength?

Trait 3: Renewal

Description: God established seasons like the year of Jubilee to reset debts and relationships, pointing to fresh starts.

Reference: Leviticus 25:10 – “Proclaim liberty throughout the land… it shall be a jubilee for you; each of you shall return to his property and to his family.”

Comment: Embracing renewal reminds us that in Christ we receive total forgiveness and a chance to begin again.

Reflection Questions:

Is there a bitterness or old hurt in your life that needs the fresh start Jesus offers?

What practical step can you take today to extend forgiveness and celebrate new beginnings in your relationships?

Session 8: Holiness in Every Generation - Leviticus 11:44, 19:2, 1 Peter 1:15-16

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

"Be Holy, For I Am Holy"

Focus Statement: God's call to holiness spans from ancient Israel to the modern church, defining our identity and purpose.

Purpose Statement: To reflect on how God's holiness shapes our identity in Christ, our worship, and our witness in the world.

What to Look For

As you read these key passages, notice how the command "be holy, for I am holy" appears in different contexts throughout Scripture. Watch for the connection between God's character and His expectations for His people. Look for how Peter applies this ancient principle directly to New Testament Christians.

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Read —

Leviticus 11:44

44 For I am the Lord your God. You must consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. So do not defile yourselves with any of these small animals that scurry along the ground.

Leviticus 11:44

44 I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy. Do not make yourselves unclean by any creature that moves along the ground.

Leviticus 19:2

2 “Give the following instructions to the entire community of Israel. You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.

Leviticus 19:2

2 “Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.

1 Peter 1:15-16

15 But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. 16 For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”

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Personal Reflection Questions

When you think of someone who is "holy," what picture comes to mind? Is it someone who seems approachable and attractive, or distant and judgmental?

If holiness means becoming more like God, what's one area of your life where you most want to reflect His character better?

Overview

Our culture has badly misunderstood what holiness means. Many people think holy people are joyless rule-followers who judge everyone else and avoid having fun. Others see holiness as an impossible standard that only super-spiritual people can achieve. But when God says "be holy, for I am holy," He's not asking us to become religious robots or perfect saints. He's inviting us to become fully human the way He designed us to be. Holiness isn't about following a list of don'ts - it's about reflecting God's beautiful character of love, justice, mercy, and truth. In a world full of broken relationships, dishonest business practices, and selfish living, holy people stand out like lights in the darkness. They show others what God is really like through their ordinary daily choices.

This May Surprise You

Here's what might shock you about God's call to holiness: it's not based on your performance but on your relationship with Him. When God told the Israelites to be holy, He didn't say "if you work hard enough, you might become holy." He said "be holy, because I am the Lord your God who brought you out of Egypt." Your holiness is grounded in what He has already done for you, not what you need to do for Him. The same is true for Christians today. Peter reminds us to be holy not because we're trying to earn God's love, but because we're "obedient children" who have already been redeemed by Christ's precious blood. This changes everything about how we pursue holiness. We don't strive to be holy in order to be accepted by God - we live holy lives because we are already accepted by God.

Seeds for Thought

Holiness Connected to Deliverance (Leviticus 11:44-45) God links the call to holiness directly to His act of bringing Israel out of Egypt. Comment: Our motivation for holy living comes from gratitude for what God has done, not fear of what He might do if we fail.

Holiness in Relationships (Leviticus 19:2) The command to be holy appears in a chapter focused on how we treat neighbors, employees, and vulnerable people. Comment: True holiness shows up most clearly in our everyday relationships, not just in religious activities or personal devotions.

Holiness as Family Resemblance (1 Peter 1:15) Peter calls Christians "obedient children" who should reflect their heavenly Father's character. Comment: Just as children naturally pick up their parents' traits, we should naturally reflect God's holiness as His beloved children.

Holiness Across Time (1 Peter 1:16) Peter quotes the Old Testament command directly, showing that God's standard hasn't changed from Moses to the church age. Comment: What God required from His people in ancient times, He still desires from His people today - a life that mirrors His character.

Take-Home Thought

The call to holiness is both the most challenging and the most encouraging message in all of Scripture. It's challenging because God's standard never drops - He calls us to reflect His perfect character in every area of life. But it's encouraging because this isn't something we have to achieve on our own strength. God doesn't command holiness and then leave us to figure it out by ourselves. He gives us His Spirit to live within us, His Word to guide us, and His community to support us.

Holiness in every generation looks the same at its core - people who love what God loves, hate what God hates, and treat others the way God treats them. But holiness also looks different in each generation because every culture has its own particular temptations and blind spots. For the Israelites, it meant avoiding pagan religious practices and treating foreigners with justice. For first-century Christians, it meant resisting Roman immorality while showing love to both Jews and Gentiles. For us today, it might mean using technology in ways that honor God, conducting business with complete integrity, or loving people across racial and political divisions.

The beautiful truth is that when we live holy lives, we don't just obey God - we show the world what He's really like. Our holiness becomes His advertisement to a broken world that desperately needs to know there's a better way to live. This is why the call to holiness is ultimately a call to hope, both for ourselves and for everyone whose lives we touch.

Quotes

J.I. Packer: "Holiness is not a matter of mystic contemplation or monastic withdrawal, but of practical conformity to the will and character of God in the rough and tumble of everyday life."

Jerry Bridges: "Holiness is not just for the spiritually mature; it is for every Christian. It is not an option; it is God's will for every believer, and we must all pursue it throughout our entire Christian lives."

Biblical Connections

2 Corinthians 7:1 - Paul calls believers to "purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God," showing the ongoing nature of holy living.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 - Paul directly states "it is God's will that you should be sanctified" and connects this to practical areas like sexual purity and honest relationships.

Ephesians 4:22-24 - Paul describes holiness as putting off the old self and putting on the new self "created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

1 John 3:2-3 - John explains that our hope of becoming like Christ when we see Him motivates us to "purify ourselves, just as he is pure," connecting future hope to present holiness.

Devotional Thought – “Be Holy, For I Am Holy”
Leviticus 11:44, 19:2; 1 Peter 1:15–16

A father once told his children, “You represent our family wherever you go.” His words were a reminder that their behavior showed who they were and what they stood for. If they acted kindly and honestly, others would see the family’s good name reflected in them.

In Leviticus, God speaks these words to His people: “Be holy, because I am holy.” This call wasn’t just for ancient Israel—it echoes through every generation, including us today. Peter picks up this same call in the New Testament, reminding believers that holiness shapes who we are as followers of Christ.

Theologian John Stott said, “To be holy is to be different because of the presence of God in our lives.” It means living in a way that reflects God’s pure and loving nature—not because we are perfect, but because He is working in us.

Holiness shapes our identity, our worship, and how we live out our faith in the world. Like that family, we represent God wherever we go. When we choose to live holy lives, we show others the beauty of God’s character and the hope found in Jesus.

So, let’s remember God’s call—to be set apart, to live differently, and to reflect the holiness of the One who loves us deeply.

Culture Connection

We live in a world that celebrates blending in and following trends. Yet God’s message has always been the opposite: He sets His people apart. From the clean-food laws in Leviticus to Peter’s call in the New Testament, we see that holiness is not just an old rule but the heartbeat of our faith. Today, embracing holiness helps us resist peer pressure, make wise choices, and show a distinct life that points others to Christ.

Three Traits from Leviticus 11:44, 19:2 & 1 Peter 1:15–16

Trait 1: Distinctive Identity

Description: We recognize we belong to God and are meant to stand out from the crowd.

Reference: Leviticus 11:44 – “I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy.”

Comment: Knowing we are God’s chosen people gives us confidence to live differently than the world.

Reflection Questions:

How does remembering you are God’s child change the way you face daily challenges?

In what situations can you show your unique identity in Christ this week?

Trait 2: Moral Purity

Description: We intentionally turn away from sin and pursue what is right in God’s eyes.

Reference: 1 Peter 1:15–16 – “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”

Comment: Choosing purity honors God’s character and keeps our hearts aligned with His will.

Reflection Questions:

Which habit or thought pattern do you need God’s help to purify?

What practical step can you take today to guard your heart and mind?

Trait 3: Active Love

Description: We treat others with fairness, kindness, and respect as an expression of God’s holiness.

Reference: Leviticus 19:2 – “Speak to the entire assembly of Israel and say to them: ‘Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.’”

Comment: When we love our neighbors well, we reflect God’s own character and draw people to Him.

Reflection Questions:

Who in your life could use a tangible sign of Christ-like love from you this week?

How does serving others deepen your own sense of holiness?

Bible Study Class — Leviticus

“Learning to praise God with lives that are set apart”

Book Overview

The book of Leviticus may seem daunting at first glance, but it stands at the very heart of the Bible, offering profound insight into what it means to live in God’s presence. Leviticus sets forth God's blueprint for holiness, bringing together instructions for worship, community life, and moral conduct. As the Lord declared through Moses, “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy” (Leviticus 19:2), calling all people to be set apart in their lives and relationships.

Five Subjects of Interest

Sacrifice and Atonement – Leviticus details the sacrificial system, ultimately pointing us toward Christ's perfect sacrifice (see Hebrews 9:11-14).

Priestly Duties – Instructions for priests teach us about mediation and drawing near to God.

Clean and Unclean – The laws about purity remind us of the need for spiritual cleanliness.

Sabbath and Festivals – Special times set aside for worship and remembrance.

Love Your Neighbor – At the book’s core is the command: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18), a verse Jesus Himself identified as the second-greatest commandment.

Timeless Wisdom for Today

Leviticus brims with timeless wisdom on community, justice, and compassion. As Dr. J.D. Greear notes, “Without love even the most radical devotion to God is of no value to Him. … If what you do does not flow out of a heart of love … it is ultimately worthless to God.” The principle of leaving part of your harvest for the poor (Leviticus 19:10) still challenges us to care for others generously.

Practical Applications in Christian Living

Reading Leviticus helps us understand the foundations of Christian faith: the seriousness of sin, the cost of atonement, and the importance of holy living. It shows God's desire to restore and reconcile, not just with ancient Israel, but with us today. As we follow Christ, we discover that the call to “be holy” isn’t just about rituals or rules—it’s about living distinctly as God’s people, full of love, mercy, and justice.

Why This Book Matters

Though written thousands of years ago, Leviticus is essential reading for every Christian. The New Testament continually reaches back to its themes—holiness, sacrifice, love—revealing how Jesus fulfilled these laws on our behalf. Pastor Chuck Swindoll summarizes: “The book communicates that receiving God's forgiveness and acceptance should be followed by holy living and spiritual growth.” To truly grasp the depth of Jesus’ work, we first appreciate the message of Leviticus: God draws near—and He invites us to be holy as He is holy.

Session 1. "Restoring the Relationship: The Path to Reconciliation" (Leviticus 1-4)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Understanding God's requirements for atonement and how sacrifices symbolize restoration in our relationship with Him.

Purpose Statement: To recognize the importance of repentance, obedience, and the foundational role of sacrifice in approaching God with a right heart.

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Read - Leviticus Chapters 1-4

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

In these opening chapters, we learn about different offerings that help people come close to God. Pastor John MacArthur explains, "The book of Leviticus teaches us that approaching a holy God requires preparation and purification." The burnt offering, grain offering, peace offering, and sin offering each show us different ways to worship God and deal with our sins.

The offerings might seem strange to us today, but they point to Jesus's perfect sacrifice later. As Charles Spurgeon once said, "The very essence of the book of Leviticus is Christ."

Sacrifices taught the Israelites about worship, repentance, and forgiveness. Pastor Tim Keller explains, "Sin is a debt that must be paid, and these sacrifices point us to the cost of that payment." They remind us that sin separates us from God, but He is gracious and provides a way to restore the relationship.

These offerings were not just rituals; they were acts of faith. Each one showed a different aspect of getting right with God. The burnt offering symbolized total dedication, while the sin offering focused on confessing and being cleansed from wrongdoing. Pastor Tony Evans says, "God is holy, and He calls His people to approach Him on His terms." This truth still applies today. While we no longer bring animal sacrifices, the heart behind these offerings—devotion, repentance, and gratitude—remains central to our relationship with God.

Ultimately, these sacrifices point to Jesus. The writer of Hebrews explains, "It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins" (Hebrews 10:4), but Jesus became the perfect sacrifice for us. As Max Lucado puts it, "God didn’t just shout His love from heaven; He showed it on the cross." Through Jesus, we can be forgiven and made right with God once and for all. Leviticus reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the greatness of God’s mercy, calling us to live with hearts full of gratitude and faith.

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Opening Question

Think about giving someone a very special gift. How do you prepare it, and how do you feel when giving it? How might this relate to bringing offerings to God?

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Digging Deeper

The book of Leviticus can feel foreign to modern readers, but it served as a vital guide for the Israelites, teaching them how to live in fellowship with a holy God. Chapters 1-4 introduce the sacrificial system, which underscores the seriousness of sin and God’s provision for forgiveness. While the rituals may seem distant, they point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who "offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins" (Hebrews 10:12).

Charles Spurgeon once said, "Sin is the great evil in the universe. It is the spear that pierces the heart of Christ." Leviticus shows us how seriously God views sin and His gracious desire to make us right with Him.

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Summary of Leviticus 1-4

Burnt Offering (Leviticus 1)

Purpose: Atonement for sin and complete surrender to God.

Symbolism: The offering was entirely consumed, symbolizing total dedication.

Grain Offering (Leviticus 2)

Purpose: Thanksgiving for God’s provision.

Symbolism: The absence of leaven and honey signifies purity and sincerity.

Peace Offering (Leviticus 3)

Purpose: Celebration of peace and fellowship with God.

Symbolism: Shared by God, the priests, and the worshiper, reflecting unity.

Sin Offering (Leviticus 4)

Purpose: Atonement for unintentional sins.

Symbolism: Blood was sprinkled before the Lord, emphasizing the cost of forgiveness.

These sacrifices teach us three big ideas that point to Jesus:

1. Sin separates us from our holy God and must be dealt with

2. Forgiveness requires the payment of a life

3. God provides a way for us to be made right with Him

In the New Testament, we learn that Jesus fulfilled all these sacrifices. Hebrews 10:12 tells us, "But when this priest (Jesus) had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God." We don't need animal sacrifices anymore because Jesus was the perfect, final sacrifice.

Think about it this way: these chapters in Leviticus are like a picture book God used to teach His people about sin, forgiveness, and worship. Now, through Jesus, we see the full picture of God's plan to make us right with Him.

Just as the Israelites had to come to God His way through these sacrifices, we must come to God His way - through faith in Jesus Christ. The good news is we don't need to bring animals anymore. Instead, Romans 12:1 tells us to offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" - meaning we give our whole lives to serve God out of thankfulness for what Jesus did for us.

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This May Surprise You

One surprising aspect of Leviticus 1-4 is the detailed instructions for sacrifices, which reflect God’s provision for reconciliation. Each offering—the burnt, grain, peace, sin, and guilt offerings—had specific purposes, materials, and methods, showing that approaching God was not casual but sacred. These sacrifices emphasized the cost of sin and the need for atonement, yet they also revealed God’s desire to dwell among His people despite their imperfections. Surprisingly, the grain offering did not involve blood, yet it symbolized gratitude and dedication, demonstrating that God values not only repentance but also acts of worship and thanksgiving.

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Think about this

God’s Holiness: Why do you think God required such specific offerings? "God’s holiness is not an abstract idea but a defining reality of His character. It demands a response from His people." – R.C. Sproul

The Cost of Sin: Each sacrifice required the shedding of blood. What does this teach us about the seriousness of sin? "Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins" (Hebrews 9:22, ESV).

Gratitude and Obedience: The grain and peace offerings remind us to thank God and celebrate His blessings. How do we show gratitude in our lives today?

Foreshadowing Christ: The sacrifices point to Jesus as the perfect Lamb of God. How do these offerings deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice?

The sacrifices outlined in Leviticus 1-4 show us that sin is serious, costly, and demands atonement. Have you considered what it cost Jesus to be the ultimate sacrifice for your sins? As you reflect on the burnt offering, the grain offering, the peace offering, and the sin offering, ask yourself: Are there areas of your life where you need to bring your guilt, your gratitude, or your need for peace to the Lord? What steps will you take today to "get right" with God, acknowledging both His holiness and His mercy?

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Discussion Questions

Why do you think God used the sacrificial system to teach His people about sin and forgiveness?

How does understanding the cost of these sacrifices help us better understand the cross of Christ?

In what ways can we "offer ourselves as living sacrifices" to God today (Romans 12:1)?

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Influence on Life Today

Leviticus 1–4 focuses on how the Israelites could draw near to God through sacrifices. While these laws may seem far removed from our lives today, they reveal timeless truths about worship, sin, and forgiveness. Tim Keller explains, "The Bible tells us that the greatest problem in the human race is sin, and the solution is atonement." The offerings in Leviticus remind us that sin separates us from God, but He provides a way for us to be made right with Him.

These sacrifices point us to Jesus, who is the ultimate fulfillment of these laws. The burnt offering showed total devotion, and the sin offering highlighted the need for forgiveness. In the New Testament, Paul writes, "Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" (Ephesians 5:2). Author Jen Wilkin adds, "Jesus fulfilled every law perfectly so that we could be forgiven for failing to do so." Today, we don’t offer animals, but we do come to God with faith in Christ’s finished work.

The call to "get right with God" is still relevant. Leviticus shows us that God desires both worship and repentance. Pastor John Piper says, "Repentance is turning away from all the sinful behaviors and inclinations of our hearts and turning to God for mercy, help, and joy." Just like the Israelites, we are called to take our sin seriously and turn to God for forgiveness. By trusting in Jesus, we can experience the peace and joy of being in right relationship with Him.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Restoring the Relationship: The Path to Reconciliation" (Leviticus 1-4)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Repentance →Acknowledging personal sin and turning away from it, as seen in the sin and guilt offerings. This calls modern believers to own their faults and seek forgiveness. →Leviticus 4:27–31

→Obedience →Following God's specific instructions for worship and atonement reflects a heart aligned with His will. In today’s life, obedience shows trust and surrender. →Leviticus 1:1–9

→Humility →The required offerings highlight that all are equally in need of grace. A humble spirit allows growth and reconciliation with God and others. →Leviticus 3:1–5

→Sacrificial Living →The voluntary burnt offering represents total devotion. In modern times, this translates into living unselfishly and giving of time, talent, and treasure. →Leviticus 1:10–13

→Personal Responsibility →The sinner had to bring their own offering, showing accountability. Today, spiritual maturity grows through taking ownership of one's walk with God. →Leviticus 4:22–26

→Pursuit of Holiness →God’s system of offerings was to make His people holy. Christians now strive for purity in thoughts, words, and actions, mirroring God’s character. →Leviticus 11:44 (contextual reference), Leviticus 1–4 (theme of cleansing)

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Take-Home Thought

Though we no longer bring animals to the altar, the principles of sacrifice, gratitude, and obedience remain relevant. Jesus fulfilled the sacrificial system once and for all, bridging the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God. As John Stott wrote, "Before we can see the cross as something done for us, we have to see it as something done by us."

Just as the Israelites needed ways to approach God, we too need to prepare our hearts to come before Him. While we no longer bring animal sacrifices, we can bring God our praise, our time, and our dedication. These chapters remind us that God wants us to come to Him, but He wants us to come the right way.

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Session 2. "Pure and Poured Out: Understanding Clean and Unclean" (Leviticus 5-7)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Examining the distinction between purity and impurity in God's law and how it affects worship and daily life.

Purpose Statement: To learn how holiness and purification rituals reflect God's desire for His people to live in righteousness and integrity.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 5-7

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

These chapters dig deeper into God's rules about what makes something clean or unclean. Max Lucado writes, "God's ancient laws about clean and unclean things weren't just about health - they were object lessons about holiness." We learn about guilt offerings and more details about other sacrifices.

The rules might seem picky, but they taught people to think carefully about their choices. Every detail mattered to God, showing that He cares about every part of our lives.

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Opening Question

When you clean your house, why do you clean some areas more carefully than others? How might this compare to how we "clean up" our lives for God?

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Summary of Leviticus 5-7

As Christian author Philip Yancey writes, "The detailed rules in Leviticus may seem strange to us today, but they taught Israel an important lesson: that God cares about every aspect of our lives, even the parts we might consider ordinary."

Chapter 5 describes the guilt offering (also called the trespass offering). This was needed when someone sinned against God's holy things or against their neighbors. The Lord says, "When anyone is guilty in any of these ways, they must confess in what way they have sinned" (Leviticus 5:5). Notice how God requires both confession and making things right - this shows us that true repentance includes both admitting our wrong and trying to fix it.

The chapter lists several situations requiring this offering:

-Touching something unclean

-Making careless promises

-Accidentally misusing holy things

-Cheating or deceiving others

In Chapter 6, God continues explaining the guilt offering but adds something important - if someone sins against their neighbor, they must pay back what they took plus 20% extra. As it says, "They must make restitution in full, add a fifth of the value to it and give it all to the owner" (Leviticus 6:5). This teaches us that God cares about how we treat each other, not just how we worship Him.

Chapter 6 also gives special instructions to the priests about how to handle the offerings. They had to keep the altar fire burning all the time: "The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out" (Leviticus 6:13). Think of this as showing how God's presence with His people never stops. As pastor Charles Spurgeon once said, "The law is our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. These ancient rules about clean and unclean remind us that we need Jesus to make us truly clean."

Chapter 7 wraps up all the sacrifice instructions with more details about how the priests should handle each type. It's like God's cookbook for the priests! But it's more than just rules - it shows us how serious God is about proper worship.

There are three big ideas in these chapters that still matter for us today:

1. Sin affects our relationship with both God and others When we sin, it's not just breaking a rule - it hurts our fellowship with God and often hurts other people too. Just as the Israelites needed to make things right through sacrifices and repayment, we need to make things right when we wrong others.

2. Confession and restitution go together God wanted His people to both admit their sins and try to fix what they broke. James 5:16 tells us to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other." This principle still applies today.

3. God takes worship seriously All these detailed rules show us that God cares how we approach Him. While we don't follow these specific rules today, Hebrews 12:28 reminds us to "worship God acceptably with reverence and awe."

How does this connect to Jesus? The New Testament tells us that Jesus became our guilt offering. Isaiah 53:10 predicted this: "The Lord makes his life an offering for guilt." Because of Jesus' sacrifice, we don't need to bring animals anymore. But we should still take sin seriously and seek to make things right when we wrong others.

These chapters also remind us that God is holy and we need to be clean to approach Him. Thanks to Jesus, we can be made clean through faith in Him. As 1 John 1:7 says, "The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

Think about it this way: just as the Israelites had specific ways to get clean before God, we have Jesus as our way to be clean before God. When we trust in Him and live for Him, we're as clean as we can be!

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This May Surprise You

What stands out in these chapters is the distinction between sin committed unintentionally and deliberately. God provided sacrifices even for unintentional sins, underscoring the seriousness of all sin and the necessity of atonement. The guilt offering introduces a remarkable principle of restitution, requiring the offender to repay what was lost plus an additional 20%. This concept not only acknowledged the relational impact of sin but also emphasized restoration and fairness. Another surprising detail is the emphasis on the priest’s role in consuming parts of certain offerings, which symbolized their unique relationship with God and their role as mediators for the people.

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Think about this

What does it mean to be "clean" before God today? How do these chapters help us understand Jesus's sacrifice better? Why do you think God was so detailed in His instructions about sacrifices?

The laws of clean and unclean remind us that God is deeply interested in the purity of our lives. They teach us that sin contaminates, but God provides a way for cleansing. Do you have habits, attitudes, or thoughts that are spiritually unclean? What might it look like to seek God's cleansing today? Remember that through Christ, we have access to forgiveness and renewal. Are you living in the freedom of that truth, or are you holding on to guilt and shame?

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Discussion Questions

"Can you think of a time when you felt spiritually 'unclean'? How did you handle those feelings?"

"Looking at these chapters, what similarities do you see between the Old Testament sacrifices and what Jesus did for us?"

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Influence on Life Today

Clean and Unclean: Modern Lessons from Leviticus 5-7

Today, many people wonder what the rules about clean and unclean things in Leviticus mean for us. Pastor Max Lucado explains it in a simple way: "God wasn't just giving rules about cleanliness - He was teaching His people about holiness." Just like we wash our hands before eating to stay healthy, God wanted His people to understand that being spiritually clean was important too. The sacrifices and rules in Leviticus 5-7 showed people that their actions mattered to God.

Christian author Beth Moore writes about how these ancient laws still teach us today. She points out that when the Israelites brought offerings to God for their mistakes, it taught them to take responsibility for their actions. This is still important now - when we do something wrong, we need to admit it and try to make it right. The offerings in Leviticus weren't just about following rules; they were about having a relationship with God and caring about doing what's right.

Tim Keller, another well-known pastor, helps us understand these chapters in a modern way. He says that just like the Israelites brought their best offerings to God, we should give our best in everything we do. When we mess up, we don't need to bring animal sacrifices anymore because Jesus was the final sacrifice. But we still need to come to God honestly, admit when we're wrong, and try to live in a way that pleases Him. The lessons from Leviticus remind us that God cares about both our hearts and our actions.

Why Does This Matter Today? Even though we don't follow these exact rules anymore, they teach us important lessons:

1. God cares about both our actions and our hearts

2. Sin has consequences that affect our relationship with God

3. God provides a way for us to be made clean again

Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe explains it this way: "The Old Testament sacrifices pointed to Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice who died once for all. What took many sacrifices then, Jesus accomplished in one perfect sacrifice."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Pure and Poured Out: Understanding Clean and Unclean" (Leviticus 5-7)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Conviction of Sin →Leviticus teaches that even unintentional sin matters. In today’s life, growing sensitivity to sin cultivates a heart that seeks purity and truth. →Leviticus 5:17

→Confession and Restoration →The guilt offering required confession and restitution. Today’s believer is called to make wrongs right and seek peace with others. →Leviticus 6:1–7

→Reverence for the Sacred →Offerings were treated as holy and handled with respect. This develops in modern believers a deep reverence for worship, communion, and spiritual commitments. →Leviticus 6:14–18

→Generosity and Gratitude →The fellowship and grain offerings express thankfulness to God. A lifestyle of giving and gratitude reflects a heart aligned with God’s goodness. →Leviticus 7:11–15

→Holiness in Daily Life →Laws about cleanness were deeply practical. Today, believers are called to live out holiness not just in worship, but in every area of daily life. →Leviticus 7:19–21

→Awareness of God’s Presence →God’s nearness required intentional purity and preparedness. Believers now are called to live with awareness of God’s abiding presence. →Leviticus 6:8–13

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Take-Home Thought

God's rules about clean and unclean things show us that He cares about details. While we don't follow these exact rules today, they teach us to be careful about what we let into our lives. Just as the Israelites had to think about what they touched and ate, we should think about what we watch, say, and do.

Christian historian F.F. Bruce reminds us: "The elaborate system of sacrifices in Leviticus wasn't just about following rules - it was about maintaining a relationship with a holy God who wanted His people to be holy too."

Remember, while we no longer need animal sacrifices, we still need cleansing - but now we receive it through faith in Jesus Christ, who became our perfect sacrifice once and for all.

Would anyone like to share their thoughts about how these ancient laws help us understand God's character better?

Scripture points to remember: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

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Session 3. "Chosen and Set Apart: God's Special Workers" (Leviticus 8-10)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Exploring the consecration of priests and their sacred responsibilities in leading God's people in worship.

Purpose Statement: To understand the calling, commitment, and accountability of spiritual leaders in serving God and His people.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 8-10

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

This section tells us about priests and their special job of serving God. Warren Wiersbe notes, "The priests were God's bridge between His holiness and human sinfulness." We read about Aaron and his sons being made priests, and the sad story of Nadab and Abihu who didn't follow God's rules.

These chapters show us that serving God is both a great honor and a serious responsibility. As Rick Warren says, "God takes His worship very seriously, and so should we."

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Opening Question

Have you ever been chosen for a special job or responsibility? How did it make you feel, and how carefully did you follow the instructions?

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Summary of Leviticus 8-10

Here we’ll explore the story of how God prepared His special workers—the priests—to serve Him. These chapters show the importance of following God's instructions and living in obedience, especially for those called to serve Him. The lessons we find here connect to the rest of the Bible and remind us of the holiness of God and the seriousness of worship.

The Ordination of Aaron and His Sons (Leviticus 8):
God chose Aaron and his sons to be priests, special workers who would lead Israel in worship. Moses followed God’s detailed instructions to ordain them, which included washing them, dressing them in special garments, and anointing them with oil.

Key Verse:
“Moses said to the congregation, ‘This is the thing which the LORD commanded to be done.’” (Leviticus 8:5)

This chapter reminds us that God is the one who calls and equips His servants. The washing symbolized cleansing from sin, and the anointing with oil set them apart for their holy work.

The Setting Up of the Priesthood

-Moses followed God's detailed instructions to prepare Aaron and his sons

-The ceremony took seven days

-The whole community watched as their spiritual leaders were appointed

Charles Spurgeon once noted: "The careful detail given to preparing the priests shows us that serving God is no casual matter. It requires dedication, preparation, and a pure heart."

The Priests Begin Their Work (Leviticus 9):
Once ordained, Aaron and his sons began offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. They followed the detailed steps God gave to atone for sin and offer thanksgiving. God showed His approval when fire came down from heaven to consume the sacrifice.

Key Verse:
“And fire came out from before the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When all the people saw it, they shouted and fell on their faces.” (Leviticus 9:24)

This moment showed that God was with His people and accepted their worship. It also pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus Christ—who offered Himself for our sins.

The First Services

-Aaron and his sons began their work as priests

-God showed His approval with miraculous fire

-The people saw God's glory and shouted with joy

The Tragic Failure of Nadab and Abihu and A Serious Warning (Leviticus 10):
Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, disobeyed God by offering "unauthorized fire" before Him. They ignored His instructions and treated holy things casually. As a result, God judged them immediately, and they died.

Key Verse:
“Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified.” (Leviticus 10:3)

This tragic event reminds us that God is holy and cannot tolerate sin. It shows the importance of respecting His Word and approaching Him with reverence.

The story of Nadab and Abihu serves as a sobering reminder about respecting God's holiness. Bible teacher David Jeremiah explains: "This difficult passage teaches us that God's work must be done God's way. We can't just make up our own rules about worship."

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This May Surprise You

Leviticus 8-10 highlights the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests, showing the meticulous preparation required to serve in God’s presence. A striking moment occurs when God’s fire consumes the offering on the altar in chapter 9, a visible sign of His approval and presence among His people. However, the surprising and sobering story of Nadab and Abihu’s unauthorized fire in chapter 10 reminds readers that God’s holiness demands reverence and obedience. Their sudden death demonstrates that service to God is not based on human innovation but on His exact instructions, underlining the seriousness of approaching Him rightly.

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Key Lessons for Us Today

God Calls and Prepares Workers:
Just as Aaron and his sons were called to serve as priests, God still calls people to serve Him today. Whether we are pastors, teachers, or simply serving in small ways, God equips us for His work.

Obedience Matters:
The priests had to follow God’s instructions exactly, and so must we. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). This means living lives of obedience and integrity.

God’s Holiness Demands Reverence:
Nadab and Abihu’s story is a warning to treat God with the respect He deserves. Worship is not about what we think is best but about honoring God according to His Word.

Foreshadowing Jesus, Our Great High Priest:
The Old Testament priests pointed forward to Jesus, who is now our Great High Priest. Unlike Aaron and his sons, Jesus was perfect and offered the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. “We have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 8:1).

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Connection to the Rest of the Bible:

God’s Call to Service- Just as Aaron’s family was set apart, all believers are called to be “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9).

Holiness and Worship- These chapters remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence, as also taught by Jesus in John 4:24: “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

Judgment and Grace- While Nadab and Abihu were judged for their disobedience, we see God’s grace in the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who fulfills the priestly work perfectly.

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Think about this

1. What qualities did God look for in His priests?

2. Why were the ceremonies so detailed and specific?

3. How does this connect to Jesus as our High Priest today?

Billy Graham once said: "The priesthood pointed toward Jesus Christ, who would become both our perfect High Priest and our perfect sacrifice."

The consecration of Aaron and his sons shows us that serving God requires preparation, obedience, and reverence. Are you taking seriously the call to serve as part of God’s holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:9)? Like Nadab and Abihu, who were judged for their irreverence, we must ask: Are there ways you have approached God’s work carelessly or self-servingly? Take time to recommit to serving Him with awe and humility.

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Discussion Questions

How can we show obedience to God in our daily lives?

What does it mean to approach God with reverence?

How does Jesus’ role as our High Priest encourage you in your faith?

How does understanding the Old Testament priesthood help you appreciate Jesus's role as our High Priest?

What can we learn from Nadab and Abihu's mistake that applies to our worship today?

Remember, while the specific rules have changed, the principles of reverence, holiness, and proper worship remain important for us today.

How do you think the Israelites felt watching these ceremonies? Put yourself in their shoes.

What does this teach us about leadership in church today?

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Influence on Life Today

Pastor John MacArthur helps us understand the special ceremony where Aaron and his sons became priests. He says, "Just as Aaron and his sons were set apart for God's work, today's church leaders are called to serve God's people with dedication and care." The detailed instructions for making Aaron a priest show us that serving God is a serious job. Even today, people who lead churches and teach about God need to take their work seriously.

Rick Warren, who wrote "The Purpose Driven Life," explains why these chapters matter now: "When we read about Aaron's sons offering strange fire and being punished, it teaches us that how we worship God matters." He points out that we need to worship God the way He wants, not just how we feel like doing it. Even though we don't have the same strict rules today, we should still approach God with respect and follow His instructions in the Bible.

Joyce Meyer, a modern Christian teacher, makes an interesting point about these chapters. She says, "The priests had to be clean inside and out before serving in God's presence. Today, God cares just as much about the hearts of those who serve Him." The special clothes and ceremonies in Leviticus remind us that working for God is an important job. Whether someone is a pastor, Sunday school teacher, or helps in other ways at church, God wants them to serve with a pure heart and follow His guidance.

God’s special workers in Leviticus remind us of the importance of holiness, obedience, and reverence. Whether we are serving in the church or living as examples to others, we are called to honor God in all we do. Let us be encouraged by Jesus, our perfect High Priest, who makes it possible for us to serve God faithfully.

Important Lessons for Today:

1. God cares about how we worship Him

2. Spiritual leadership is both an honor and a serious responsibility

3. God's holiness deserves our respect

Matthew Henry wrote: "The priests served as a bridge between God and people. Today, because of Jesus, we can all approach God directly, yet we must still do so with reverence."

Application for Today: While we don't have priests like Aaron anymore, Peter tells us we are all part of a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). This means:

-We all have direct access to God through Jesus

-We all have responsibility to represent God to others

-We should serve God with reverence and joy

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Chosen and Set Apart: God's Special Workers" (Leviticus 8-10)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Consecration →Aaron and his sons were set apart through anointing and sacrifice. Today, believers are called to dedicate their whole lives to God’s purposes. →Leviticus 8:10–12

→Preparedness for Service →Priests underwent purification and training before ministry. Modern believers grow by being spiritually equipped and ready to serve faithfully. →Leviticus 8:33–36

→Obedience in Leadership →Nadab and Abihu’s disobedience shows the seriousness of following God’s commands. Today, leaders and servants must walk in reverence and integrity. →Leviticus 10:1–3

→God-Centered Worship →Worship was not about personal preference but divine instruction. Believers today must keep worship focused on God’s glory, not self-expression. →Leviticus 9:22–24

→Accountability in Ministry →Priests were held to high standards. In today’s society, spiritual growth includes taking responsibility for influence and impact on others. →Leviticus 10:8–11

→Fear of the Lord →God’s holiness demanded reverence, not casualness. A deep, healthy fear of the Lord shapes how believers live, speak, and serve. →Leviticus 10:3

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Take-Home Thought

While not all of us are priests today, the Bible calls Christians a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). These chapters remind us that serving God is special but must be done His way, not ours. We should feel honored to serve God but always remember to respect His holiness.

A.W. Tozer reminds us: "The most important thing about us is what we think about God." These chapters help us understand God's holiness and His desire for proper worship.

Would anyone like to share how these chapters have changed their understanding of worship and service to God?

Scripture to Remember: "Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus... let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings." (Hebrews 10:19,22)

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Session 4. "Living in Purity: Embracing God's Standards for Clean Living" (Leviticus 11-15)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Discovering the practical and spiritual significance of purity laws in daily life and their connection to God's holiness.

Purpose Statement: To cultivate a deeper awareness of how obedience to God's standards leads to a life of spiritual and physical health.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 11-15

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

These chapters give detailed rules about food, sickness, and cleanliness. Billy Graham once said, "God's laws were given not to burden us, but to show us how to live healthy, happy lives." The rules about clean and unclean animals, skin diseases, and other issues helped keep people healthy and reminded them to be different from other nations.

These laws protected people's health but also taught spiritual lessons. Just as they had to be careful about what they ate and touched, we need to be careful about what we let influence us.

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Opening Question

When you go to a doctor, they often ask about your diet and daily habits. Why do you think God cared about these everyday parts of people's lives?

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Summary of Leviticus 11-15

God gave detailed rules about:

• Which foods were okay to eat (Chapter 11)

• How to handle childbirth and monthly cycles (Chapters 12)

• How to deal with skin diseases and mold (Chapters 13-14)

• How to handle bodily discharges (Chapter 15)

As Pastor Charles Spurgeon once said: "The law of God is meant to be a looking-glass to show us our spots and lead us to Christ for cleansing."

Why These Rules Mattered

These rules served several purposes:

1. Health and Hygiene: Many of these rules protected people from diseases in times before modern medicine.

2. Setting Apart: These rules reminded Israel they were different from other nations.

3. Teaching Holiness: The physical cleanliness rules pointed to spiritual cleanliness.

Bible scholar Matthew Henry wrote: "These laws were designed not only for the preservation of their health, but to teach them to hate and dread moral impurity."

What This Means for Us Today

While we don't follow these exact rules anymore (Acts 10:15), they teach us important lessons:

1. God cares about every part of our lives

2. Holiness means being set apart for God

3. Our physical and spiritual lives are connected

Famous preacher Billy Graham once noted: "The Bible teaches that we are to keep our bodies clean and pure as temples of the Holy Spirit."

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This May Surprise You

One of the most surprising aspects of these chapters is the level of detail about clean and unclean foods, bodily conditions, and diseases. These regulations, though seemingly mundane, reflect God’s concern for both spiritual and physical health. The distinction between clean and unclean animals might seem puzzling, but it taught Israel about purity and set them apart from other nations. Additionally, the guidelines for handling contagious diseases and bodily discharges, such as leprosy and mold, show remarkable foresight in public health, long before modern science. These laws symbolized the need for purity in every area of life and the importance of holiness even in daily routines.

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Think about this

How do these ancient rules about cleanliness help us understand God's character?

In what ways can we practice "spiritual cleanliness" in our modern lives?

Why do you think God gave such detailed instructions about daily life?

The meticulous laws about clean and unclean things show us how God's people were to reflect His holiness in every aspect of life. Do you view your daily choices—what you consume, how you speak, how you act—as opportunities to glorify God? Are there areas where you’ve become indifferent to the need for holiness? Take this week to examine your life and ask God to make you spiritually clean, inside and out.

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Discussion Questions:

"What are some ways we can be 'set apart' as Christians today without being unfriendly to non-Christians?"

"When you read about all these cleanliness rules, what does it tell you about how much God cares about the details of our lives?"

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Influence on Life Today

Andy Stanley, a well-known pastor, helps us understand these chapters about clean and unclean foods and conditions. He explains, "The detailed rules in Leviticus weren't just about health - they were about helping God's people live differently from those around them." While we don't follow these exact food rules today, the idea of living in a way that honors God is still important. Just as the Israelites had to think carefully about what they ate, we should think carefully about our choices in life.

Francis Chan, author of "Crazy Love," talks about how these chapters relate to us today: "When Leviticus talks about dealing with skin diseases and mold, it shows that God cares about every part of our lives - even the things that seem small." He points out that God was teaching His people to care about cleanliness and to help those who were sick. Today, we can show God's love by taking care of our health and helping others who are ill.

Popular Christian author Priscilla Shirer brings these ancient rules into modern times. She says, "The laws about being clean weren't just about the outside - they were about being pure on the inside too." While we don't follow the same cleanliness rules today, the message is still clear: God wants us to live clean lives in both our actions and thoughts. This means being honest, kind, and making choices that please God. These chapters remind us that how we live matters to God, even when nobody else is watching.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Living in Purity: Embracing God's Standards for Clean Living" (Leviticus 11-15)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Discernment →God distinguished between clean and unclean to teach discernment. Today’s believers must wisely evaluate what influences their spiritual health. →Leviticus 11:1–47

→Respect for the Body →Laws regarding physical cleanliness emphasized that the body matters to God. Modern believers are called to honor God with their bodies. →Leviticus 13:1–8

→Spiritual Vigilance →Vigilance was required to detect impurity early. Today, we grow by being spiritually alert to compromise or moral decay in our hearts and actions. →Leviticus 13:32–37

→Patience in the Process →Restoration from uncleanness involved waiting, examination, and cleansing. Spiritual growth often requires patient, thorough work in our lives. →Leviticus 14:1–9

→Pursuit of Wholeness →God's concern was not just for ritual purity but for whole-person restoration. Believers now are called to seek emotional, relational, and spiritual healing. →Leviticus 15:1–15

→God's Nearness in the Ordinary →Even bodily functions were subject to God’s law—He is Lord over all of life. Believers grow by inviting God into every detail, not just religious acts. →Leviticus 11:44–45

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Take-Home Thought

While we don't follow these exact rules today, they show us that God cares about our whole lives - not just when we're at church. Living clean lives means making good choices about our bodies, our homes, and our habits. It's about honoring God in everything we do.

Pastor John MacArthur puts it well: "God's holiness is not just about avoiding sin - it's about living a life that reflects His character in everything we do."

Remember, friends, just as the Israelites needed to be physically clean to approach God, we need to be spiritually clean through Jesus Christ to have a relationship with Him.

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Session 5. "The Great Exchange: Understanding the Day of Atonement" (Leviticus 16-18)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Reflecting on the significance of the Day of Atonement as a time of repentance and reconciliation with God.

Purpose Statement: To appreciate the depth of God's mercy and the foreshadowing of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for our redemption.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 16-18

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

These chapters focus on the most important day of the year for the Israelites - the Day of Atonement. David Jeremiah explains, "This day pointed ahead to Jesus Christ, who would make the final sacrifice for all sins." We learn about how the high priest made special sacrifices to cover everyone's sins.

The detailed instructions show how seriously God takes forgiveness. As Tim Keller writes, "Sin must be dealt with - either by us or by a substitute."

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Opening Question

Think about the most important day of your year. What makes it special? How does it compare to this special day God set up for His people?

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Summary of Leviticus 16-18

Today we'll explore one of the most important days in the Jewish calendar - the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur. We'll also learn about God's rules for sacrifices and relationships.

Understanding the Day of Atonement (Chapter 16)

The Day of Atonement was the one day each year when the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place to make sacrifices for everyone's sins. This special day pointed forward to what Jesus would do for us.

As Warren Wiersbe explains: "The Day of Atonement was not a festival; it was a solemn day when people faced their sins and dealt with them God's way."

The ceremony involved:

1. Two goats - one sacrificed for sins, one sent into the wilderness

2. Special clothes for the High Priest

3. Careful preparations to approach God

Pastor John MacArthur notes: "The scapegoat carrying away the sins of the people beautifully pictures how Jesus takes away our sins, removing them as far as the east is from the west."

Rules about Blood and Sacrifice (Chapter 17)

God gave strict rules about sacrifices because blood is sacred. It represents life and the cost of sin.

Charles Spurgeon powerfully stated: "The blood of Jesus Christ is precious because it is the only thing that can wash away sin. Nothing less than the blood of Jesus will ever save a single soul."

God's Rules for Relationships (Chapter 18)

These chapters show that God cares about how we live and treat each other. He gives clear instructions about marriage and family relationships.

As Matthew Henry wrote: "These laws were given to keep God's people pure and different from the nations around them."

Looking at Jesus

The writer of Hebrews explains how Jesus fulfilled what the Day of Atonement pictured:

• He is our perfect High Priest

• His sacrifice was once for all

• We can now approach God directly through Him

A.W. Tozer reminds us: "Jesus is not only our sacrifice for sin but also our Great High Priest who lives forever to make intercession for us."

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This May Surprise You

The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) described in Leviticus 16 contains several surprising elements, including the use of two goats. One goat was sacrificed as a sin offering, while the other, the scapegoat, was released into the wilderness, symbolically carrying away the sins of the people. This ritual poignantly illustrates both the penalty of sin and God’s provision for removing guilt. Another surprise is the detailed emphasis on Aaron’s personal preparation, showing that even the high priest needed cleansing before approaching God. Chapters 17 and 18 further reveal the surprising breadth of God’s laws, extending to moral purity and proper worship practices, reinforcing the connection between holiness and relationship with God.

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Think about this

How does the Day of Atonement help us better understand Jesus's sacrifice?

Why was blood so important in God's plan for forgiveness?

What do these chapters tell us about God's view of holiness?

The Day of Atonement highlights God’s provision for forgiveness and the removal of sin. It points us to Jesus, the perfect sacrifice who bore our sins once for all. Have you truly accepted that your sins have been forgiven and removed through Christ? Are you living as someone who has been set free, or are you carrying burdens God has already dealt with? Let the reality of atonement bring you into deeper gratitude and worship.

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Discussion Questions

"How does knowing Jesus fulfilled the Day of Atonement make you feel about your relationship with God?"

"What differences do you see between the old system of sacrifice and what Jesus did for us?"

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Influence on Life Today

David Platt, author of "Radical," explains why the Day of Atonement was so important: "Once a year, the high priest would enter the most holy place to make things right between God and His people. Today, we don't need this ceremony anymore because Jesus became our perfect high priest." The Day of Atonement showed that sin is serious and needs to be dealt with. But now, instead of yearly sacrifices, Jesus took care of our sins once and for all when He died for us.

Billy Graham helped many people understand these chapters when he said, "The blood of goats and bulls could never fully take away sin - they only pointed to what Jesus would do." He explained that all the complicated rules about sacrifice and blood were like signs pointing to Jesus. Today, when we ask Jesus to forgive our sins, we don't need to bring animals to sacrifice. Instead, we thank Him for being the perfect sacrifice that makes us clean before God.

Charles Stanley gives us a modern way to think about these chapters: "Just as the Israelites had one special day to deal with all their sins, we have one special Savior who deals with all our sins." The rules in these chapters remind us that God takes sin seriously, but He also provides a way to be forgiven. Today, instead of waiting for a yearly ceremony, we can come to God anytime through Jesus. When we do wrong, we can pray and ask for forgiveness, knowing that Jesus has already paid the price for our sins.

Modern Application

Pastor David Jeremiah says: "Just as the Israelites needed yearly atonement, we need daily cleansing through confession and repentance."

Today we can:

Thank God for Jesus's perfect sacrifice

Live holy lives out of gratitude

Approach God confidently through Jesus

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "The Great Exchange: Understanding the Day of Atonement" (Leviticus 16-18)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Gratitude for Atonement →The Day of Atonement was a gift of mercy and renewal. Today, believers grow by living in daily gratitude for Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. →Leviticus 16:30–34

→Confession and Cleansing →Sin had to be confessed and symbolically removed. Spiritual maturity requires honest confession and receiving God’s cleansing through Christ. →Leviticus 16:20–22

→Reverence for God’s Holiness →Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, showing God's holiness. Believers now approach God with awe, not casualness. →Leviticus 16:2–4

→Dependence on a Mediator →Atonement could only be made through the priest. Today, we recognize Jesus as our perfect Mediator and rely fully on His finished work. →Leviticus 16:15–17

→Commitment to God’s Moral Standards →Chapters 17–18 emphasize how redeemed people should live differently. Spiritual growth involves embracing God's moral boundaries with joyful obedience. →Leviticus 18:1–5

→Renewed Identity →The Day of Atonement reminded Israel they were God’s chosen people. Believers today grow by living from their identity as holy and set apart in Christ. →Leviticus 16:29–31

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Take-Home Thought

The Day of Atonement reminds us that sin is serious but God provides a way for forgiveness. Today, we don't need a yearly sacrifice because Jesus died once for all our sins. These chapters help us understand just how amazing Jesus's sacrifice was.

Remember friends, while the Israelites needed a yearly Day of Atonement, we have constant access to God through Jesus Christ. As Max Lucado beautifully puts it: "Because of Jesus, God's door is always open."

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Session 6. "Called to Holiness: Living as God's Holy People" (Leviticus 19-22)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Understanding God's call for His people to live set apart, embodying holiness in their relationships and conduct.

Purpose Statement: To apply principles of holiness and moral integrity, striving to reflect God’s character in all aspects of life.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 19-22

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

This section gives practical rules for daily life. Beth Moore notes, "These laws weren't just random rules - they showed people how to love God and love their neighbors." The chapters cover everything from business deals to how to treat the poor and elderly.

God wanted His people to be different from other nations. As Kay Arthur writes, "Holiness isn't just about avoiding sin - it's about living in a way that shows others who God is."

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Opening Question

When people look at your life, what tells them you're a Christian? How do your everyday choices show what you believe?

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Summary of Leviticus 19-22

Today we'll explore God's practical instructions for holy living. These chapters show us that being holy isn't just about worship - it's about how we treat others and live our daily lives.

God's Call to Be Holy (Chapter 19)

God starts with a powerful command: "Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy" (19:2). Then He gives practical ways to live this out.

As Charles Spurgeon said: "Holiness is not the way to Christ; Christ is the way to holiness."

God's instructions include:

1. Respecting parents

2. Being honest in business

3. Taking care of the poor

4. Treating others fairly

Pastor Adrian Rogers noted: "Holiness is not the absence of something. It is the presence of Someone - the Lord Jesus Christ."

Special Rules for Priests (Chapters 21-22)

God gave special rules to the priests because they had special responsibilities. They needed to be extra careful to stay clean and holy.

Bible teacher Warren Wiersbe explains: "The priests were to be living object lessons of holiness to the people they served."

Living Different from the World (Chapter 20)

This chapter shows that God's people should live differently from those around them.

As A.W. Tozer wrote: "A real Christian is an odd number. He feels supreme love for One whom he has never seen; talks familiarly every day to Someone he cannot see; expects to go to heaven on the virtue of Another."

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This May Surprise You

Leviticus 19 contains the surprising refrain, “Be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy,” tied to ethical commands like honesty, justice, and compassion for the poor. Holiness is not confined to ritual but includes daily life, such as caring for others, respecting parents, and treating strangers with kindness. Another striking aspect is the emphasis on loving one’s neighbor as oneself, a concept foundational to Jesus’ teaching. The chapters also describe surprising details about the physical condition of offerings and priests, underscoring that God values excellence and purity in all aspects of worship.

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A Special Note for Seniors

Billy Graham once said: "As I grow older, my prayer is that I will continue to bear fruit in my life that brings glory to God."

You have a special opportunity to:

-Show wisdom to younger generations

-Demonstrate faithful living

-Share your experiences of God's faithfulness

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Think about this

How do these rules show God's care for all people?

What does it mean to be "holy" in today's world?

Why did God expect more from the priests than from ordinary people?

“Be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy” (Leviticus 19:2) is a call to reflect God’s character in every area of life. Are there ways you’ve compartmentalized your faith, giving God some areas while keeping others off-limits? Holiness means living set apart for God in your relationships, work, and worship. What specific steps can you take this week to live in obedience to His Word and reflect His holiness to others?

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Discussion Questions

"What are some ways we can 'be holy' in our everyday lives at home, at the store, or with neighbors?"

"Why do you think God cares so much about how we treat other people?"

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Influence on Life Today

Tony Evans, a respected pastor and author, helps us understand what it means to be holy today: "When God told His people to be holy because He is holy, He wasn't just giving them a list of rules. He was teaching them how to live in a way that shows they belong to Him." These chapters give many rules about treating others fairly, being honest in business, and respecting our parents. Even though our world is different now, these basic principles about treating others right still matter to God.

Craig Groeschel, who leads Life. Church, explains how these ancient rules apply today: "God's command to leave some crops in your field for the poor shows us that He cares about how we help others in need." He points out that while we might not have fields of crops today, we can still find ways to be generous and help those who don't have enough. The rules in these chapters weren't just about following laws - they were about showing God's love to others through our actions.

Lysa TerKeurst, author of many Christian books, talks about how these chapters relate to our daily choices: "When God gave specific rules about how priests should live, He was showing that the people who represent Him should live differently." Today, the Bible tells us that all Christians represent God to the world. This means we should be honest, kind, and fair in how we treat others. It means standing up for what's right, even when it's hard, and showing God's love to everyone we meet - just like these chapters taught the Israelites to do.

Practical Holiness Today

D.L. Moody once said: "A holy life will produce the deepest impression. Lighthouses blow no horns; they only shine."

Ways we can live holy lives today:

-Being honest in all dealings

-Caring for those in need

-Treating everyone with respect

-Standing firm in our faith

Modern Application

Pastor John MacArthur reminds us: "Holiness isn't about rules - it's about reflecting God's character in our daily lives."

Today we can show holiness by:

-Being kind to everyone

-Being honest in small things

-Helping those in need

-Standing up for what's right

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Called to Holiness: Living as God's Holy People" (Leviticus 19-22)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Holistic Holiness →God called His people to be holy in every part of life—spiritual, social, and ethical. Today, holiness includes how we worship, work, and relate. →Leviticus 19:1–2

→Love in Action →Holiness included caring for the poor, honest business, and respect for others. Believers today reflect God’s holiness through radical love and justice. →Leviticus 19:9–18

→Integrity →God required honest scales, truthful speech, and just behavior. Modern disciples grow by aligning every word and action with God’s truth. →Leviticus 19:35–37

→Respect for Sacred Things →Offerings and rituals had to be done with care and sincerity. Believers now show reverence by honoring God in worship, communion, and spiritual disciplines. →Leviticus 22:1–2

→Purity in Leadership →Priests were held to high standards because of their role. Today’s spiritual leaders—and all believers—are called to live above reproach. →Leviticus 21:6–8

→Set-Apart Identity →Israel was distinct from other nations in lifestyle and worship. Believers now live counterculturally, shaped by God’s values, not society’s norms. →Leviticus 20:22–26

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Take-Home Thought

These chapters show us that being holy means being different in practical ways. God cares about how we treat others, how we do business, and how we help those in need. Living a holy life means showing God's love in everything we do.

Max Lucado beautifully states: "God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus."

Remember friends, being holy isn't about being perfect - it's about letting God's love shine through us to others.

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Session 7. "Sacred Seasons: Celebrating God's Special Times" (Leviticus 23-27)

— Printable Download

Focus Statement: Exploring the significance of sacred festivals and times set apart for worship and remembrance.

Purpose Statement: To recognize the value of dedicated moments with God, celebrating His faithfulness and deepening our spiritual devotion.

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Read – Leviticus Chapters 23-27

Audio (NLT)

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Overview

The final chapters talk about special festivals and celebrations. Tony Evans says, "God gave His people times to rest, remember, and rejoice together." We learn about the Sabbath, Passover, and other festivals that helped people remember God's goodness.

These celebrations brought people together and helped them teach their children about God. They were times of joy and thankfulness for all God had done.

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Opening Question

What's your favorite holiday? How do special celebrations help us remember important things and stay close to people we love?

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Summary of Leviticus 23-27

Today we'll explore God's special feast days and other important rules He gave His people. These chapters show us how God wanted the Israelites to remember Him throughout their year.

God's Special Feast Days (Chapter 23)

God gave His people seven special celebrations:

1. Sabbath - weekly rest

2. Passover - remembering their freedom from Egypt

3. Firstfruits - giving God the first harvest

4. Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) - celebrating the harvest

5. Feast of Trumpets - calling people to worship

6. Day of Atonement - seeking forgiveness

7. Feast of Tabernacles - remembering God's care in the wilderness

As Warren Wiersbe explains: "These feasts weren't just holidays - they were 'holy days' that helped people remember God's goodness and promises."

The Meaning Behind the Feasts

Ray Stedman wrote: "Each feast was like a picture that pointed to something God would do through Jesus Christ."

For example:

• Passover points to Jesus's death

• Firstfruits points to His resurrection

• Pentecost points to the coming of the Holy Spirit

Rules about the Tabernacle (Chapter 24)

Charles Spurgeon noted: "The lampstand in the tabernacle reminds us that God's light should always be shining in His house and in our lives."

The Year of Jubilee (Chapter 25)

Every 50 years, God commanded a special year when:

• Debts were forgiven

• Slaves were freed

• Land returned to original families

Billy Graham said about Jubilee: "God's plan included a fresh start for everyone - what a beautiful picture of His grace!"

Promises and Warnings (Chapter 26)

This chapter shows both God's blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience.

John MacArthur explains: "God's warnings weren't meant to frighten His people but to protect them from harm."

Vows and Dedication (Chapter 27)

This final chapter talks about keeping promises to God.

Matthew Henry wrote: "What we give to God should be our best, given from a willing heart."

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This May Surprise You

The feasts and Sabbatical laws in Leviticus 23-27 contain many surprising elements. For instance, the Year of Jubilee is a radical concept where debts are canceled, land is restored, and slaves are freed every 50 years. This practice demonstrates God’s concern for economic justice and social equity. The feasts, such as Passover and the Day of Atonement, are rich in meaning, pointing to God’s past deliverance and future promises. Another surprise is the emphasis on rest and renewal—not only for people but also for the land—showing God’s care for creation and the need for trust in His provision.

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Think about this

How do these feast days help us understand God's plan through Jesus?

What does the Year of Jubilee teach us about God's heart?

How can we make special times with God in our lives today?

The feasts and Sabbaths remind us that God calls His people to intentional times of worship, rest, and celebration. Are you prioritizing time with God in the rhythm of your life? Do you treat Sundays and special moments of worship as holy, or have they become routine? Consider how you can better honor God’s call to rest, rejoice, and renew your focus on Him. What steps can you take to make time with Him your highest priority?

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Discussion Questions

"Which of God's feast days speaks to your heart the most and why?"

"How can we create meaningful 'holy days' in our own families to remember God's goodness?"

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Influence on Life Today

Mark Batterson, author of "The Circle Maker," helps us understand why God created special celebrations: "Just as the Israelites had festivals to remember God's goodness, we need regular times to pause and celebrate what God has done for us." These chapters describe special holidays like Passover and the Festival of Tabernacles. While we might not celebrate these exact same festivals today, setting aside special times to worship God and remember His blessings is still important.

Steven Furtick of Elevation Church explains how these ancient celebrations matter now: "The Year of Jubilee taught people that everything belongs to God, and He wants us to live with generous hearts." In those days, every fifty years, debts were forgiven and land was returned to its original owners. Today, this reminds us to be generous, forgive others, and remember that everything we have comes from God. These special times helped people reset their lives and remember what really matters.

Ann Voskamp, who wrote "One Thousand Gifts," talks about making time for God today: "The festivals in Leviticus weren't just religious duties - they were invitations to spend time with God." She points out that we can create our own special times with God through regular prayer, worship, and Bible reading. Just like the Israelites took time off work for these festivals, we need to make time in our busy lives to focus on God. Whether it's Sunday worship, daily devotions, or special church events, these times help us grow closer to God and remember His faithfulness.

Making Time for God Today

Max Lucado reminds us: "Time with God is not about quantity but quality. It's not about duty but about delight."

Ways we can make special time with God:

-Regular daily prayer times

-Weekly worship with church family

-Special celebrations of God's work in our lives

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from the Old Testament- "Sacred Seasons: Celebrating God's Special Times" (Leviticus 23-27)

→Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

→Rhythms of Rest →The Sabbath and Jubilee years taught God’s people to rest in His provision. Believers today grow by practicing regular rest and trusting God, not busyness. →Leviticus 23:3; 25:1–7

→Remembrance and Celebration →The feasts reminded Israel of God's faithfulness. Modern believers grow through intentional remembrance and celebrating God's work in their lives. →Leviticus 23:4–44

→Generosity and Provision →The Jubilee emphasized release, restoration, and provision for the poor. Today, we are called to radical generosity and economic justice. →Leviticus 25:8–17

→Stewardship of Land and Life →Land and people belonged to God. Believers now live as stewards—not owners—of time, resources, and relationships. →Leviticus 25:23

→Faithfulness in Worship →Offerings, vows, and sacred obligations reflected devotion. Believers today grow through consistent, heartfelt worship and keeping their commitments to God. →Leviticus 27:1–8

→Hope for Restoration →God promised restoration for obedience and warned of exile for disobedience—but always left a door open for return. We grow by clinging to God's mercy and hope for renewal. →Leviticus 26:3–13, 40–45

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Take-Home Thought

While we may celebrate different holidays today, these chapters remind us why it's important to set aside special time for God. Regular celebrations help us remember what God has done and teach younger generations about faith. They give us joy and help us stay close to God and each other.

A.W. Tozer beautifully reminds us: "God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible - what a pity we plan only the things we can do by ourselves."

Remember friends, God still wants special time with His people today. Through Jesus, every day can be a holy day of fellowship with Him.

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Special Application for Seniors

Adrian Rogers once said: "As we age, we have more time to spend with God - what a wonderful gift!"

You can:

-Share holiday traditions with grandchildren

-Tell stories of God's faithfulness

-Be an example of faithful worship

Why Christians Should Study the Book of Leviticus:

As followers of Christ, we believe that all Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). This includes the book of Leviticus, a book often overlooked or misunderstood in contemporary Christian circles. However, the study of Leviticus is deeply valuable for several key reasons:

Understanding God’s Holiness
Leviticus reveals the nature of God’s holiness and the importance of living in a way that honors Him. Throughout the book, we see the detailed laws given to the Israelites on how to approach God with reverence and purity. These instructions were necessary because God's holiness demands separation from sin and impurity. By studying Leviticus, we learn about God’s righteousness, which helps us appreciate the depth of His holiness and the seriousness of our call to be set apart for Him (Leviticus 19:2).

The Foundations of Worship and Sacrifice
The sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus plays a foundational role in understanding the atonement for sin. The offerings and sacrifices point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). As Christians, we recognize that the rituals of Leviticus find their fulfillment in Christ's atoning death on the cross. By studying Leviticus, we gain a deeper understanding of the sacrificial nature of Christ’s sacrifice, making the New Testament teachings on grace and redemption even more meaningful.

God’s Call to Holiness and Moral Living
The laws in Leviticus are not just about ceremonial purity; they also cover ethical behavior and the moral framework God desires for His people. Passages like Leviticus 19:18, "Love your neighbor as yourself," are echoed by Jesus in the Gospels as the essence of God’s law (Matthew 22:39). Leviticus teaches us how God desires His people to live in community, with justice, mercy, and integrity. By understanding these principles, we grow in our understanding of how to live a holy life that reflects Christ’s love.

The Fulfillment of the Old Covenant in Christ
Leviticus provides context for the Old Covenant, showing how it was a temporary system that pointed to something greater. As Christians, we understand that Jesus fulfills the Old Covenant and brings a New Covenant through His blood (Luke 22:20). By studying Leviticus, we better understand the transition from the Old Covenant to the New, and why Jesus’ life and sacrifice are so significant.

Learning from Israel’s Journey
The Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, as outlined in Leviticus, teaches us valuable lessons about obedience, consecration, and reliance on God. Leviticus highlights the importance of keeping God’s commands, not as a means of earning salvation, but as a response to God’s grace. The Israelites' struggle to live according to God's law serves as a reminder of our own struggles and our need for Jesus to empower us to live faithfully.