Leviticus 22:3

Tell them that for the generations to come, if any of their descendants in a state of uncleanness approaches the sacred offerings that the Israelites consecrate to the LORD, that person must be cut off from My presence. I am the LORD.

Study Bible

Tell them that for the generations to come
This phrase establishes the perpetual nature of the commandment. It is not limited to the immediate audience but extends to future generations. This reflects the timelessness of God's laws and their relevance across ages. The continuity of the priestly duties and the sanctity of the offerings are emphasized, showing the importance of maintaining holiness in worship practices.

if any of their descendants in a state of uncleanness
Uncleanness in the Levitical context refers to a ceremonial impurity that could result from various causes, such as contact with a dead body, certain diseases, or other specified conditions. This highlights the importance of purity in approaching God, a theme that runs throughout Leviticus. The descendants refer to the priestly line, emphasizing the need for those who serve in sacred roles to maintain a higher standard of holiness.

approaches the sacred offerings
The sacred offerings are those set apart for God, including sacrifices and other gifts brought by the Israelites. These offerings were central to the worship and atonement practices of Israel. Approaching them in a state of uncleanness would defile what is holy, underscoring the need for reverence and purity in worship.

that the Israelites consecrate to the LORD
Consecration involves setting something apart for a holy purpose. The Israelites' act of consecrating offerings to the LORD signifies their dedication and obedience to God. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where the people are called to be holy as God is holy.

that person must be cut off from My presence
Being cut off from God's presence is a severe consequence, indicating both physical and spiritual separation. This punishment underscores the seriousness of defiling sacred offerings and the holiness of God. It serves as a warning to maintain purity and reverence in worship, reflecting the broader biblical theme of separation from God due to sin.

I am the LORD
This declaration affirms God's authority and the divine origin of the command. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the reason for obedience. The phrase "I am the LORD" is a recurring motif in Leviticus, emphasizing God's holiness and the call for His people to reflect that holiness in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
- The covenant God of Israel, who is holy and requires holiness from His people.

2. Aaron and His Descendants
- The priestly line chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple, responsible for maintaining ritual purity.

3. The Israelites
- The chosen people of God, who are called to be holy and set apart from other nations.

4. The Tabernacle
- The dwelling place of God among His people, where sacrifices and offerings are made.

5. Uncleanness
- A state of ritual impurity that disqualifies a person from participating in sacred activities.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Reverence
God’s holiness demands reverence and obedience. As believers, we are called to approach God with a heart that respects His holiness and follows His commands.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin and uncleanness separate us from God. We must take sin seriously and seek purification through repentance and faith in Christ.

Priestly Responsibility
Just as the priests were responsible for maintaining purity, believers today are called to be a royal priesthood, living lives that reflect God’s holiness.

Community Impact
Our personal holiness affects the community of believers. We must strive to live pure lives that contribute to the spiritual health of the church.

Access to God
Through Christ, we have access to God. We must not take this privilege lightly but approach Him with a clean heart and a sincere faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for priests to remain clean before serving in the tabernacle relate to our call to holiness today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are approaching God with the reverence and purity He requires?

3. How does the concept of uncleanness in Leviticus 22:3 help us understand the seriousness of sin in our lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain personal holiness in our daily lives?

5. How can the principles found in Leviticus 22:3 be applied to our role as a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10:1-3
This passage recounts the account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD and were consumed by fire. It underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and in accordance with His commands.

Numbers 19:20
This verse discusses the consequences of failing to purify oneself, emphasizing the seriousness of uncleanness and its impact on the community.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter calls believers to be holy in all their conduct, echoing the call to holiness found in Leviticus.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse encourages believers to draw near to God with a sincere heart and full assurance of faith, having been cleansed from a guilty conscience.

Isaiah 52:11
This passage calls for the people to depart from uncleanness and be pure, highlighting the theme of separation from impurity.