Leviticus 20:13

If a man lies with a man as with a woman, they have both committed an abomination. They must surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.

Study Bible

If a man lies with a man as with a woman
This phrase addresses the act of homosexual relations, which is explicitly prohibited in the Mosaic Law. The context of Leviticus is the establishment of a holy community set apart for God, with laws that reflect His holiness. The prohibition is part of a broader set of sexual ethics that include prohibitions against incest, adultery, and bestiality (Leviticus 18). The phrase "as with a woman" indicates the natural order of sexual relations as understood in the biblical context, which is rooted in the creation narrative of Genesis 1-2, where God creates male and female for the purpose of procreation and companionship. This law reflects the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, where maintaining purity and distinctiveness from surrounding nations was paramount.

they have both committed an abomination
The term "abomination" is used in the Old Testament to describe actions that are detestable or repugnant to God. It is often associated with idolatry and practices that defile the land or the people. In the context of Leviticus, abominations are actions that violate the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This term is also used in other parts of Scripture, such as Proverbs 6:16-19, to describe behaviors that are morally reprehensible. The use of "abomination" underscores the severity of the offense in the eyes of God and the need for the community to uphold divine standards of holiness.

They must surely be put to death
The prescribed penalty reflects the seriousness with which the Mosaic Law treats violations of God's commandments. Capital punishment in ancient Israel served as a deterrent and a means of purging evil from the community (Deuteronomy 17:7). This reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where civil and religious laws were intertwined. The death penalty for certain sins underscores the holiness of God and the need for His people to be holy (Leviticus 19:2). In the New Testament, while the civil penalties of the Mosaic Law are not applied to the church, the moral principles remain significant, and the call to holiness is reiterated (1 Peter 1:15-16).

their blood is upon them
This phrase indicates personal responsibility for the sin committed. In the legal context of ancient Israel, it means that the individuals bear the guilt and consequences of their actions. The concept of blood being upon someone is seen in other parts of Scripture, such as Ezekiel 18:13, where it signifies accountability for one's own sin. This principle of personal responsibility is echoed in the New Testament, where each person is accountable to God for their actions (Romans 14:12). The phrase also highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement, which in the Christian understanding is ultimately fulfilled in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, who takes upon Himself the sins of the world (1 John 2:2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Leviticus, who received the laws from God to instruct the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Canaan
The land where the Israelites were headed, which was inhabited by people whose practices God deemed abominable.

4. God
The divine lawgiver who establishes moral and ceremonial laws for His people.

5. Levitical Law
A set of laws given to the Israelites, covering moral, ceremonial, and civil aspects of life.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Context
Recognize that Leviticus was written in a specific historical and cultural context, where God was establishing a distinct identity for His people.

Holiness and Distinction
The laws in Leviticus, including this one, emphasize the call to holiness and separation from the practices of surrounding nations.

Moral Law and Its Continuity
While some Levitical laws are ceremonial and specific to Israel, the moral laws reflect God's unchanging character and are reiterated in the New Testament.

Compassion and Truth
Approach discussions on this topic with both compassion and adherence to biblical truth, recognizing the dignity of every person while upholding scriptural standards.

Redemption and Transformation
Emphasize the power of the Gospel to transform lives, offering hope and redemption to all who turn to Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of Leviticus help us interpret its laws today?

2. In what ways does the call to holiness in Leviticus 20:13 apply to Christians living in a modern context?

3. How do the New Testament passages reinforce or expand upon the teachings found in Leviticus 20:13?

4. What are some practical ways Christians can uphold biblical truth while showing love and compassion to those who may disagree?

5. How can the church effectively communicate the message of redemption and transformation in Christ to those struggling with issues related to this passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
The account of Sodom and Gomorrah, which highlights the gravity of sexual immorality and its consequences.

Romans 1
Paul discusses the consequences of turning away from God, including engaging in same-sex relations, which he describes as contrary to nature.

1 Corinthians 6
Paul lists behaviors that are unrighteous, including same-sex relations, and emphasizes the transformative power of Christ.

1 Timothy 1
Paul reiterates the law's purpose in identifying sin, including same-sex relations, as contrary to sound doctrine.

Jude 1
References the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as an example of the consequences of sexual immorality.