“Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances, to walk therein: I am the LORD your God.”
Context: Leviticus is the third book of the Bible and is primarily concerned with the regulations and laws given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Leviticus 18 contains various laws regarding sexual immorality and other prohibited relationships.
Importance of God’s Judgments and Ordinances: In Leviticus 18:4, God emphasizes the importance of obeying His judgments and keeping His ordinances. The judgments and ordinances mentioned here refer to the laws and regulations given by God to the Israelites. These laws covered various aspects of life, including moral conduct, worship, cleanliness, and relationships. By following these laws, the Israelites would demonstrate their obedience to God and set themselves apart as His chosen people.
Walking in God’s Ways: The verse instructs the Israelites to “walk therein,” meaning to live according to God’s judgments and ordinances. This implies a lifestyle of obedience and adherence to God’s commands. Walking in God’s ways involves not only outward compliance but also an inner commitment to align one’s thoughts, actions, and attitudes with His standards. It is a call to holiness and righteousness.
God as the LORD: The verse concludes by emphasizing that God is “the LORD your God.” This phrase serves as a reminder of God’s authority and sovereignty over His people. By acknowledging Him as their God, the Israelites were expected to recognize His lordship and submit to His laws. It also implies a covenant relationship between God and His people, wherein He would bless and protect them as long as they remained faithful and obedient.
Application: While Leviticus contains specific laws given to the ancient Israelites, there are broader principles that can be applied to our lives today. As Christians, we are not bound by the ceremonial and ritualistic laws of the Old Testament, but we are called to live in accordance with God’s moral principles and commandments. The New Testament teaches us to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). Therefore, Leviticus 18:4 reminds us to seek God’s guidance, obey His Word, and live in holiness, reflecting His character in our daily lives.
Remember that studying the Bible holistically and considering the surrounding verses, as well as seeking guidance from trusted pastors or scholars, can provide a deeper understanding of God’s message.
