“Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God.”
Historical Context:Leviticus is the third book of the Bible and it primarily focuses on the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites through Moses. The book contains instructions regarding various aspects of religious, moral, and ceremonial practices for the nation of Israel. Leviticus 18 specifically deals with the laws concerning sexual morality.
The Importance of God’s Ordinances: In this verse, God commands the Israelites to keep His ordinances and not to engage in the abominable customs that were practiced by the nations around them. God wanted His chosen people to be distinct and holy, separate from the practices of the pagan nations. By following His ordinances, the Israelites would demonstrate their obedience, faithfulness, and commitment to God.
The Abominable Customs: The abominable customs referred to in this verse encompassed various immoral practices, including incest, adultery, bestiality, and other sexual sins. These practices were not only morally wrong but were also offensive to God’s holiness. God wanted His people to avoid these actions and live according to His standards of righteousness and purity.
God’s Desire for Holiness: The phrase “and that ye defile not yourselves therein” emphasizes God’s desire for His people to maintain purity and holiness. Engaging in these abominable customs would defile the people and compromise their relationship with God. God’s command was intended to protect His people from the spiritual, physical, and societal consequences that such practices would bring.
The Identity of God’s People: By reminding the Israelites that He is the LORD their God, God establishes His authority and reaffirms their identity as His chosen people. The Israelites were to reflect the character and values of their covenant-keeping God in their lives and actions. Keeping God’s ordinances set them apart as a holy nation and testified to their commitment to the covenant they had entered into with God.
Application to Christians Today: While Leviticus 18:30 was specifically addressed to the Israelites under the Mosaic Law, there are principles that Christians can draw from this verse. As followers of Christ, believers are called to live holy lives, separated from the immoral practices of the world. Christians are called to honor God with their bodies and flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). The New Testament provides further guidance on living in purity and holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit.
In conclusion, Leviticus 18:30 reminds the Israelites of the importance of keeping God’s ordinances and avoiding the abominable customs practiced by the nations around them. It emphasizes God’s desire for His people to maintain holiness and purity, setting them apart as a chosen people. While the specific laws may not directly apply to Christians today, the principles of living a holy and separated life remain relevant for believers, reflecting their commitment to God and His standards of righteousness.
