Leviticus 20:7

Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am the LORD your God.

Study Bible

Consecrate yourselves
The Hebrew root for "consecrate" is "קדש" (qadash), which means to set apart or dedicate for a sacred purpose. In the context of Leviticus, this call to consecration is a directive for the Israelites to distinguish themselves from the surrounding nations by adhering to God's laws and commandments. Historically, this was a time when the Israelites were establishing their identity as God's chosen people, and consecration was a physical and spiritual act of devotion. It involved rituals, sacrifices, and a commitment to live according to God's standards. For Christians today, consecration is a call to live a life dedicated to God, setting aside worldly desires and focusing on spiritual growth and holiness.

and be holy
The word "holy" comes from the Hebrew "קדוש" (qadosh), which signifies being set apart, pure, and sacred. Holiness is a central theme in Leviticus, emphasizing the need for the Israelites to reflect God's character in their lives. In the ancient Near Eastern context, holiness was not just a moral attribute but a state of being that required separation from anything impure or defiling. For believers, being holy is an ongoing process of sanctification, striving to embody the purity and righteousness of God in everyday life. It is a reminder that holiness is not just about external actions but an internal transformation that aligns one's heart and mind with God's will.

for I am the LORD your God
This phrase underscores the authority and identity of God as the covenant-keeping deity of Israel. The name "LORD" is translated from the Tetragrammaton "יהוה" (YHWH), which is the personal name of God revealed to Moses. It signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. By declaring "I am the LORD your God," the verse reinforces the relationship between God and His people, highlighting His sovereignty and the reason for their call to holiness. Historically, this declaration served as a reminder of the covenant established at Sinai, where God promised to be their God if they obeyed His commandments. For Christians, this phrase is a powerful affirmation of God's unchanging nature and His desire for a personal relationship with His followers, calling them to live in a way that honors Him as their Lord and Savior.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai and communicated them to the people.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law to set them apart from other nations.

3. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave the Law to Moses, including the instructions found in Leviticus.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who calls His people to holiness.

5. Holiness
A state of being set apart for God, which is a central theme in the book of Leviticus.

Teaching Points

The Call to Holiness
God’s command to "be holy" is not just an Old Testament concept but a timeless call for all believers.

Holiness involves being set apart for God’s purposes and living in a way that reflects His character.

Consecration as a Daily Practice
Consecration is an intentional act of dedicating oneself to God, requiring daily commitment and renewal.

It involves both internal transformation and external actions that align with God’s will.

Understanding Holiness in Context
The Hebrew word for "holy" (qadosh) implies being distinct and separate, emphasizing the unique identity of God’s people.

Holiness is not about legalism but about a relationship with God that transforms our lives.

The Role of Obedience
Obedience to God’s commands is a key aspect of living a holy life, as it demonstrates our love and reverence for Him.

Holiness is reflected in our choices, actions, and attitudes, aligning with God’s standards.

Holiness and Community
The call to holiness is both individual and communal, impacting how we interact with others and live as a community of believers.

As a holy people, we are called to be a light to the world, demonstrating God’s love and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "consecrate" yourself, and how can you apply this in your daily life?

2. How does the call to holiness in Leviticus 20:7 relate to the New Testament teachings on holiness?

3. In what ways can you pursue holiness in your personal and professional life?

4. How does understanding the original Hebrew context of "holiness" enhance your comprehension of this verse?

5. How can the concept of holiness influence your interactions within your community and church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Peter 1:15-16
This passage echoes the call to holiness found in Leviticus, emphasizing that believers are to be holy in all their conduct because God is holy.

Romans 12:1-2
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which aligns with the call to consecrate oneself.

Hebrews 12:14
This verse stresses the importance of pursuing holiness, without which no one will see the Lord, reinforcing the necessity of being set apart.

Exodus 19:6
God calls Israel to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, which is foundational to understanding the call to holiness in Leviticus.

1 Thessalonians 4:7
Paul reminds believers that God has called them not to impurity but to live a holy life, reflecting the ongoing relevance of Leviticus 20:7.