It can be challenging to consistently pull applicable truths from the chapters of Leviticus. I’m sure this is more of a reflection on me than on Leviticus, because as Jesus said, “seek and you will find.” (Matt. 7:7)
So, I’ve been seeking in Leviticus chapters 15-17, and it’s been tough. (Leviticus chapter 15 seems more suited for a health and hygiene book than for sacred text!) But, I’ve found these chapters address three major needs in my life…and yours.
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Lev. 15:31 points out my need to keep myself separate from that which is unclean. This is applicable, because every day there are opportunities and attractions to pursue that which is not good or godly.
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Leviticus chapter 16 points out another need in my life…my need to address my sin and my inability to do that myself. My sin must be removed from me and placed on someone else who can take it away, (Lev. 16:20-22) and judgement must be executed on my sin. (Lev. 16:15) This pictures my need for Christ, who bore my sins and suffered the penalty for them.
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But Leviticus chapter 17 is more difficult. This chapter gives a prohibition on eating blood. What am I to do with this? I’m not a vampire! This chapter actually addresses my need for new life. Leviticus 17:11 says “the life of a creature is in the blood.” Jesus shed His blood to give me life, not just by exchanging His life for mine as payment for my sin, but also as a means of supplying His divine life as a resource for me to live mine.
My need to separate from sin, deal with my sin, and live differently are all supplied by one (and only one) source…the shedding of Jesus’ blood for me.
Leviticus continues to surprise me, and Christ continues to amaze me.
Bret Legg is the Teaching and Counseling Pastor at Warren Baptist Church in Augusta, GA.