If you are following the Bible reading schedule in Our Daily Bread, you’ve been in the book of Leviticus lately. Leviticus may be one of the least-read books in the Bible, and you might be wondering what its purpose really is. Why all those laws and rules about clean and unclean animals? (ch. 11). What message was God giving to the Israelites – and to us?
Bible commentator Gordon Wendham says, "As the laws distinguished clean from unclean animals, so the people were reminded that God had distinguished them from all the other nations on earth to be His own possession . . . Man’s highest duty is to imitate his creator."
Five times in Leviticus God says, "Be holy, for I am holy" (11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7,26). And forty-five times He says, "I am the Lord" or "I am the Lord your God." One of the most important themes in the book is God’s call for His people to be holy. Jesus echoed that theme when He said, "You shall be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:48).
As you read Leviticus 11, remember that you are special to God and are to "proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9).
We need the Leviticus reminder every day. – Anne Cetas
Some portions of the Word of God
Are difficult to read,
But God will help us understand
Rich truths He’d have us heed. – D. De Haan
READ: Leviticus 11:41-45
Study the Bible to be wise; believe it to be safe; practice it to be holy.
The Bible in one year:
• Leviticus 13
• Matthew 26:26-50