Leviticus 22:9

The priests must keep My charge, lest they bear the guilt and die because they profane it. I am the LORD who sanctifies them.

Study Bible

The priests must keep My charge
The role of the priests in ancient Israel was to serve as mediators between God and the people. "Keep My charge" refers to the responsibilities and duties assigned to them, particularly in maintaining the sanctity of the tabernacle and later the temple. This charge included offering sacrifices, maintaining purity, and teaching the law. The concept of keeping God's charge is echoed in Genesis 26:5, where Abraham is commended for obeying God's commands, statutes, and laws. The priests' adherence to these duties was crucial for the spiritual health of the nation.

lest they bear the guilt and die
The consequences for failing to uphold their duties were severe. Bearing guilt implies taking on the responsibility for sin, which in this context, could lead to death. This reflects the holiness required in approaching God, as seen in the deaths of Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10:1-2, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord. The seriousness of this command underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence in worship.

because they profane it
To profane something is to treat it with irreverence or disrespect. The priests were to ensure that the sacred rituals and objects were treated with the utmost respect. Profaning the sacred duties would not only dishonor God but also lead to the defilement of the community. This concept is further illustrated in Ezekiel 22:26, where the priests are condemned for failing to distinguish between the holy and the common.

I am the LORD who sanctifies them
This phrase emphasizes God's role in setting the priests apart for their sacred duties. Sanctification is the process of being made holy, and it is God who initiates and completes this process. The declaration "I am the LORD" is a reminder of God's authority and covenant relationship with Israel. This sanctification is a type of the work of Christ, who sanctifies believers through His sacrifice, as seen in Hebrews 10:10. The priests' sanctification was both a privilege and a responsibility, highlighting their unique role in God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple, responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the sacred space.

2. Sacred Offerings
These are the offerings brought by the Israelites to the tabernacle or temple, which were to be handled with utmost reverence and care by the priests.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His role as the one who sanctifies and sets apart His people for His purposes.

4. Tabernacle/Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the presence of God dwelt and where the priests performed their duties.

5. Sanctification
The process of being made holy, set apart for God's purposes, which is a central theme in the book of Leviticus.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The priests were required to maintain a standard of holiness in their service, reflecting the holiness of God. As believers, we are called to serve God with reverence and purity in our lives.

The Seriousness of Sin
The warning of death for desecrating sacred offerings underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and reverence in our approach to God.

God as Sanctifier
God is the one who sanctifies His people. Our efforts to live holy lives are empowered by His grace and presence in our lives.

Responsibility of Leadership
Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to uphold God's standards and lead by example, ensuring that their actions do not lead others into sin.

The Role of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him and experiencing His blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priests in Leviticus 22:9 relate to the concept of the priesthood of all believers in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are treating the "sacred offerings" in our lives with the reverence they deserve?

3. How does understanding God as the one who sanctifies us impact our daily walk with Him?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain holiness in our service to God and others?

5. How can spiritual leaders today apply the principles of Leviticus 22:9 in their leadership and ministry?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters describe the consecration of the priests and their garments, emphasizing the holiness required in their service.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks to the New Testament believers as a royal priesthood, connecting the priestly duties to the calling of all Christians to live holy lives.

Hebrews 7:26-28
These verses highlight Jesus as the perfect high priest, who fulfills the requirements of holiness and sanctification on behalf of His people.